For expats and digital nomads who have chosen the charming town of Cotacachi as their base, the local markets are a vibrant and essential part of daily life. These markets are not just places to shop; they are cultural hubs where one can experience the rich tapestry of Ecuadorian life. From fresh produce to artisanal crafts, each market in Cotacachi offers a unique glimpse into the local traditions and provides an opportunity to support the community’s economy. Here are some of the best markets in Cotacachi that you should not miss.
Mercado 10 de Agosto
Location: Calle 10 de Agosto, Cotacachi
Type of Market: Local Food and Goods Market
Open: Daily, 7 AM – 5 PM
Named after the street it resides on, Mercado 10 de Agosto is the go-to place for fresh produce, meats, and household items. This indoor market is bustling with activity every day, as locals and expats alike come to purchase the freshest ingredients for their meals. The market also has a food court area where you can try delicious, home-cooked Ecuadorian dishes at very affordable prices.
We Recommend: Be sure to try the hornado, a slow-roasted pork dish that is a favorite among locals. It’s often served with llapingachos (potato pancakes) and aji, a spicy Ecuadorian condiment.
Plaza El Salto Artisan Market
Location: Near the intersection of Calle Sucre and Calle Morales, Cotacachi
Type of Market: Artisan and Craft Market
Open: Daily, 9 AM – 6 PM
Plaza El Salto is a picturesque outdoor market where artisans from Cotacachi and the surrounding areas come to sell their handcrafted goods. Here, you can find a wide array of leather goods, textiles, jewelry, and more. It’s a great place to pick up unique gifts or souvenirs that are made with traditional techniques passed down through generations.
We Recommend: Look for the finely crafted leather bags and belts, as Cotacachi is renowned for its high-quality leatherwork.
Feria Libre
Location: On the outskirts of Cotacachi, along Pan-American Highway
Type of Market: Farmers Market
Open: Saturdays, early morning until mid-afternoon
The Feria Libre is a weekly farmers market that is a must-visit for anyone interested in experiencing local life. Farmers from the region bring their freshest fruits, vegetables, herbs, and grains to sell directly to consumers. It’s a great opportunity to stock up on healthy, organic produce while enjoying the lively atmosphere.
We Recommend: Try the array of tropical fruits available, such as pitahaya (dragon fruit) and granadilla, which are both delicious and nutritious.
Cotacachi Flower Market
Location: Central Cotacachi, near the main square
Type of Market: Flower Market
Open: Daily, 8 AM – 6 PM
For those who appreciate the beauty of fresh flowers, the Cotacachi Flower Market is a colorful and fragrant destination. Local florists and growers display an impressive variety of flowers, from roses to orchids, all of which are grown in the rich soils of the Andean highlands. The market is not only a place to buy flowers but also a spot to enjoy the natural beauty and perhaps even learn a bit about floral arrangement from the friendly vendors.
We Recommend: The long-stemmed roses are a highlight, as Ecuador is famous for producing some of the world’s most beautiful roses.
Inti Raymi Street Market
Location: Along Calle Inti Raymi, Cotacachi
Type of Market: Seasonal Cultural Market
Open: Annually during the Inti Raymi festival (late June)
The Inti Raymi Street Market is a seasonal market that coincides with the traditional indigenous festival of the sun, Inti Raymi. This vibrant market features a mix of food, music, dance, and crafts, all celebrating the rich indigenous culture of the area. It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in local traditions and find unique, handcrafted items.
We Recommend: Look for traditional Andean musical instruments, such as the pan flute or charango, which are often sold by the artisans who make them.
Leather Street (Calle Morales)
Location: Calle Morales, Cotacachi
Type of Market: Specialized Leather Goods Market
Open: Daily, 9 AM – 6 PM
Calle Morales, commonly referred to as Leather Street, is an entire street dedicated to leather shops and workshops. While not a traditional market, this area functions as a hub for those seeking high-quality leather products. Each shop offers a variety of jackets, boots, bags, and accessories, all crafted by local artisans.
We Recommend: Custom-made leather jackets are a popular choice here, as you can have one tailored to fit you perfectly at a fraction of what it would cost elsewhere.
These markets in Cotacachi provide a window into the local culture and are a testament to the town’s vibrant community spirit. Whether you’re shopping for necessities, gifts, or simply exploring, each market offers a unique experience that enriches the expat and digital nomad lifestyle.
