About
The Reserva Ecológica Cotacachi-Cayapas is a large protected area in northwest Ecuador, spread across Esmeraldas and Imbabura Provinces. It covers about 204,420 hectares, and its landscape runs from the cool Andean highlands down to the lowlands near the coast, so a single visit can take in very different kinds of nature.
What you can expect
- Rich plant life: the reserve is home to more than 2,000 plant species.
- Birdwatching: around 500 bird species have been recorded here, making it a strong destination for birders.
- Varied ecosystems: moving from highland to lowland, you pass through very different habitats, each with its own plants and wildlife.
Planning your visit
The reserve is best suited to visitors who enjoy wild, undeveloped landscapes and are comfortable with the practicalities of exploring a large natural area. Because it spans two provinces and a wide range of altitudes, it helps to think about which part you want to see before you set out. For current information on visiting, you can call +593-6-291-5344. The reserve is also known as the Cotacachi-Cayapas Ecological Reserve, so you may find it listed under either name.
Esmeraldas and Imbabura offer their own reasons to linger in the region, and combining a reserve visit with time in nearby towns can make a fuller trip. Whether it suits you depends mostly on how much you value birds, plants and open country.
