Latacunga is the capital of Cotopaxi Province in Ecuador, and it’s a medium-sized city easily accessible via the Pan-American Highway. It’s located less than a two-hour drive from Ecuador’s capital, Quito.
There’s a certain charm to smaller cities, and I found myself quickly falling in love with Latacunga. The city offers excellent lodging options, a wide variety of eateries, and plenty of shopping opportunities, providing a fascinating glimpse into the daily life of a bustling market city.
Despite its modest size, Latacunga boasts a plethora of exciting activities and attractions. We’ve compiled a list of the top things to do in Latacunga, Ecuador, that you won’t want to miss! While we enjoy exploring cities on our own, Latacunga’s rich history makes having a guide worthwhile for many travelers. You can find several affordable guided tours here.
Table of Contents
Visit Local Markets
The area around Latacunga serves as a trading hub, with bustling marketplaces not just in the city itself but also in the surrounding smaller communities.
Although we only caught glimpses of them from the bus, these markets were magnificent. Our bus made a stop there for a bit, allowing us some time to take in the details as we waited for shoppers to finish their errands.
What impressed us the most was that this market primarily caters to locals. It was one of the least touristy marketplaces we’ve encountered, particularly in Zumbagua, which has become increasingly rare these days. It felt authentic and gave us a true sense of the local culture!
Stroll Around the City
While Latacunga may not be one of Ecuador’s most visually stunning cities, it does have a few interesting structures that caught our eye. Despite the city being destroyed by earthquakes numerous times, it still retains its charm.
We found that we didn’t even need a map to navigate the area. It felt like we stumbled upon many of the attractions on our way from the bus terminal to our accommodation, as well as while searching for a cozy local diner.
Within walking distance of the city center, we discovered several picturesque churches, including Iglesia Católica La Merced, Iglesia de Santo Domingo, and La Catedral. Each of these churches has its unique character and adds to the city’s historical ambiance.
Look into Traditional and Local Art
Just an hour from Latacunga lies the small village of Tigua, the birthplace of the vibrant ‘Tigua Paintings’ art movement. Local artists use bold, brilliant colors to depict scenes of local life and traditional legends on sheep canvas, creating truly unique pieces.
We visited to explore the galleries and couldn’t resist buying a painting as a keepsake. It’s such a meaningful souvenir, capturing the spirit and traditions of this beautiful region.
Visit Cotopaxi National Park and Climb Cotopaxi Volcano
Cotopaxi National Park is dominated by the impressive 5,897-meter-high Cotopaxi volcano. On a clear day, you can catch a glimpse of Cotopaxi not only from Latacunga but even from Quito.
This iconic destination is easily accessible through a Cotopaxi Tour from Quito, and many travel agencies also offer tours departing from Latacunga. It’s an unforgettable experience and a must-do for anyone visiting the region!
Visiting Cotopaxi on your own is also an option, though you’ll need to arrange your own transportation.
The scenery in the park is absolutely breathtaking, making it an ideal spot for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Just keep in mind that you’ll be exploring at a high altitude, so acclimatization is essential to fully enjoy the experience.
For the more experienced outdoor enthusiasts, there’s the option to trek all the way to the peak of the volcano with a guide. For those looking for a less intense adventure, a scenic walk up to the cabin at 4,500 meters above sea level is a great alternative, offering stunning views without the strenuous climb to the summit.
Be Amazed by the Breathtaking Views of Quilotoa Lake
Quilotoa Lagoon is a stunning water-filled crater lake situated over 4,000 meters above sea level, nestled within Ecuador’s breathtaking landscape.
As one of Ecuador’s top tourist destinations, Quilotoa Lagoon is often a must-visit on travelers’ itineraries. You can visit Quilotoa Lagoon on a day trip from Latacunga, or, due to its popularity, take a Quilotoa Tour from Quito as well. It’s an experience that shouldn’t be missed!
Trek the Quilotoa Loop
While Quilotoa Lagoon itself is a highlight, we opted for a multi-day Quilotoa Loop Trek, which led us through beautiful farmlands and several quaint villages.
This trek can be completed in two to four days, depending on your starting point and pace. We chose the three-day, two-night option, and it ended up being one of our most memorable experiences in Ecuador. The journey was as captivating as the destination!
The Quilotoa Loop doesn’t require a guide (though hiring one is easy if you’d prefer) and has no entrance fee, making it a popular choice for independent and adventurous travelers.
Even if you’re short on time, the segment from Chugchillan to the Quilotoa crater is the most spectacular and is absolutely worth experiencing. It’s a breathtaking hike that captures the beauty of the loop in a single day!
Enjoy the Beautiful Cotopaxi Sunset
On clear days, you’ll be rewarded with stunning, unobstructed views of the Cotopaxi volcano, which is a big reason why many people flock to this part of Ecuador.
Watching the sunset over Cotopaxi is truly unforgettable, especially as the light bathes the snow-capped peak in hues of yellow and pink. And the best part? You don’t even have to be in the national park to enjoy this breathtaking scenery. Simply book a hotel in Latacunga with a rooftop view, sit back with a warm drink, and soak in the views—it’s the perfect way to end a day of exploring.
Attend the Mama Negra Festival
If you’re visiting Ecuador in September, plan your trip around the Mama Negra festival for an unforgettable experience of local culture and tradition.
This lively celebration honors the ‘Virgen de la Merced‘ and blends indigenous, Spanish, and African influences in a vibrant display of music, dance, and rituals. Hostels and hotels fill up quickly during this season, so it’s wise to make your reservation early to secure a spot for this unique event.
Bottom Line
Even though Latacunga is a small town, it has a charm all its own. While many tourists flock to Cotopaxi National Park, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy independently.
Latacunga is truly a delightful place. Our time there made me appreciate the little things around me—the local sights, the friendly vibe, and the slower pace that invites you to take it all in.
