About
Imbabura is a province in northern Ecuador, set among volcanic landscapes and named after the Imbabura volcano that rises above it. For visitors, it offers a quieter side of the Andes, where mountain scenery and traditional village life sit close together.
What draws visitors
- The Imbabura volcano, the prominent peak that gives the province its name and shapes the views across the region.
- Volcanic landscapes, with valleys, slopes and lakes that suit a slow pace of walking and looking.
- The Otavalo market, a well-known indigenous market where textiles, crafts and everyday goods are traded.
Planning a visit
Most people visiting Imbabura use the Otavalo area as a base, since the market and the surrounding villages are easy to reach from there. The province suits travellers who want to combine a market visit with time outdoors, and who are happy to move between small towns rather than follow a fixed route.
Because the province is mountainous, weather can change quickly, so it helps to bring layers and sturdy footwear. Allow time to talk with stallholders and to explore beyond the main market streets, where local life carries on at its own rhythm.
