Expat Advice: Living in Cotacachi, Ecuador
What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?
Cotacachi
How long have you lived there?
15 months
What activities, clubs and organizations would you recommend to newcomers to help them meet others?
There are several restaurants frequented by US expats ... Serendipity, Solid Rock, D'Anitas - go there to get the latest gossip and information about housing, rentals, etc.
In terms of religious, racial, economic and cultural diversity, are the people of this city or town diverse? Are they accepting of differences? Describe.
About 1/3 of the local residents are Indigenous, still wearing their traditional dress.
What are the main industries in this city? What types of career opportunities commonly exist? How do most people find new jobs?
Leather goods
If a friend of yours was thinking of moving to this city or town from far away, what other advice would you give them.
Be sure that you can adjust to small town living.
Moving to Ecuador soon?
More Expat Advice about Living in Ecuador
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Comments about this Report
PURRTY11I am on my way. Will be in Cota before Christmas and will need an apartment. Thanks for the names of the restaurants
guestI am looking forward to visiting the small town of Catacachi.Were tired of the hustle-bustle city life.How easy is it to rent a house there.are there any houses for rent?I would love to know.thanks,JulieG.ps thanks for the advice
guestDo you know who could help with finding a small house with a fenced or walled yard to rent in Cotacachi? We are hoping to come in Oct. or Nov. and have two Labs that we w ant to bring.
guestWe have an apartment to rent in Cotacachi. 2 bedrooms and 2 baths. Set in a garden in Prima vera 2. PPurinton@gmail.com
Chickadee4everVery informative. My husband and I are considering a move to Cotacachi, so any addiitional information will be much appreciated!
guestCotacachi is a small town with most necessities. Hostals (a single room with two beds, hot water, and maid service) is very affordable at $10 a night at the Munaylla (munaija) in the middle of town. Immaculate tiled & hardwood floors, white walls and cultural appointments round out this aesthetically pleasing environment for an over-nighter or an-extended stay. While there are a few upscale restaurants, Americans might choose the Solid Rock Café, where the fare is very good, but inexpensive and it is a local hang-out for American expats.
guestI plan to visit Cotacachi this year to consider relocation....or maybe just move cold turkey. Is it realistic to live in Cotacachi if you are not Spanish speaking? Have the travel basics, but not at all fluent. Also, how many ex pats live in Cotacachi? I was also told that it is not a good idea to live north of Quito because of proximity to Colombia. True? Thank you for any insights.
guestI've heard that getting around is fairly good as the busses run continuously. But if we want to have our own car, are there any used car lots or places to buy little cars? We would like to purchase a mini-cooper type vehicle to travel. What about driver's licenses and car insurance? Can we drive in Ecuador with a current U.S. driver license? Is there a car insurance office in Cotacochi? Thanks very much. CW
BenandCherylhereCodacachi looks like the perfect place for me and my wife. We love small town living and friendliness of the people in Codacachi Are there many English speaking people there? How far to the cost?
