Cotacachi, Ecuador

"The current wisdom is to try any country on for size for a few months and Ecuador is no exception. And happily, the Ecuadorian government makes it reasonably easy to do, for up to six months. When you land and they stamp your passport that gives you a 90-day visa, Basically 3 months. The day after that visa expires you have to present yourself and your passport at an office of "Migración" where they will give you a slip of paper to take to a Banco Pacifico to pay $140 (not positive if that is still the amount but it was a few months ago for my step-son's Mexican fiancé). You take the payment voucher back to Migración and they stamp your passport for another 3 months. Problem solved. Happy exploration. That is the process for both Canadian and US visitors but I don't know the regulations for other countries outside of South America," wrote one member in Cotacachi.

"Expats considering retirement in Cotacachi should be aware that the cost of living is significantly lower than in many Western countries, with affordable housing, food, and healthcare. The official language is Spanish, so learning the language or hiring a translator may be necessary. The climate is mild and spring-like year-round, which can be a major draw for those looking to escape harsh winters. Cotacachi is a small town, so it may not offer the same level of entertainment or amenities as a larger city. However, it is known for its strong expat community, which can provide a sense of camaraderie and support. The healthcare system in Ecuador is generally good, but it's advisable to have a comprehensive health insurance plan. Ecuador uses the US dollar as its official currency, which can make financial transitions easier for American retirees. The country also has a retiree visa program that offers benefits like tax exemptions, but it requires proving a steady income. Public transportation is widely available and affordable, but it may not be as reliable or comfortable as what expats are used to. Crime rates are relatively low in Cotacachi, but like anywhere, it's important to take standard safety precautions. Finally, while Ecuadorians are generally welcoming and friendly, there can be cultural differences that require adjustment, so it's important to approach the move with an open mind and a willingness to adapt," remarked one expat who made the move to Cotacachi.

"Cotacachi is a small town known for its leather goods and tranquil lifestyle, attracting many expats seeking a peaceful retirement. The official language is Spanish, so learning the language will be beneficial, although many locals and expats speak English. The cost of living is significantly lower than in North America or Europe, making it an attractive destination for retirees. The local currency is the US dollar, which makes financial transactions easier for American expats. Healthcare in Cotacachi is affordable and of good quality, with many doctors speaking English. The town has a small hospital and larger, more specialized facilities are available in nearby cities. Cotacachi has a mild climate year-round, with temperatures rarely exceeding 70 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it's located at a high altitude, which can take some time to adjust to. The town is also in a seismic zone, so earthquakes are a possibility. The expat community in Cotacachi is quite large and welcoming, often organizing social events and activities. The local culture is rich and vibrant, with numerous festivals and events throughout the year. The food is fresh and locally sourced, with a focus on fruits, vegetables, and grains. Public transportation is reliable and inexpensive, but many places are also within walking distance. For longer trips, hiring a driver or renting a car is also an option. Safety is generally not a concern in Cotacachi, but like anywhere, it's important to take common-sense precautions. Finally, it's important to note that while Cotacachi offers a slower pace of life, it may not offer all the amenities and conveniences of a larger city," remarked one expat living in Cotacachi, Ecuador.

"Finding a place to live in Cotacachi involves several steps. First, you need to decide what type of accommodation you are looking for. This could be a house, an apartment, or a room in a shared house. Next, you should research the different neighborhoods in Cotacachi to find one that suits your lifestyle and budget. Some popular neighborhoods for expats include San Miguel, El Batan, and Santa Ana. Once you have an idea of where you want to live and what type of accommodation you are looking for, you can start your search. There are several ways to do this. One option is to use online property websites. Websites like Ecuador Homes Online, Viva Tropical, and Ecuador Property Consultants list properties for rent and sale in Cotacachi. Another option is to use a real estate agent. Agents can help you find properties that match your criteria, arrange viewings, and negotiate the rental or purchase price. You could also look for rental signs in the neighborhood you are interested in. Many properties in Cotacachi are rented out by word of mouth, so it can be beneficial to ask around. If you are planning to move to Cotacachi from another country, it might be a good idea to rent a place short-term first. This will give you the chance to get to know the area and decide if it is the right place for you before committing to a long-term lease or purchase. Finally, once you have found a place you like, make sure to thoroughly read the rental or purchase agreement before signing. If you are not fluent in Spanish, it might be worth hiring a translator to ensure you fully understand the terms of the agreement," explained one expat living in Cotacachi, Ecuador.

"A typical expat home or apartment in Cotacachi, is often a blend of modern and traditional styles. The homes are usually spacious, with open floor plans and high ceilings. They often feature large windows or glass doors that allow plenty of natural light and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains or countryside. The living areas are typically furnished with comfortable, contemporary furniture, while the bedrooms may have traditional Ecuadorian touches, such as hand-woven rugs or locally made artwork. The kitchens are usually modern and well-equipped, often featuring granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. Many homes also have outdoor spaces, such as balconies or patios, where residents can enjoy the mild climate. Some expat homes may also have amenities like a fireplace, a home office, or a separate guest house. Despite the modern comforts, these homes often retain a sense of Ecuadorian charm, with features like tile floors, wooden beams, and colorful, locally made decor," wrote a member in Cotacachi.

"The average cost of housing in Cotacachi can vary greatly depending on the type and size of the property. For instance, a small apartment or condo in the city center may cost around $50,000 to $100,000. However, larger homes or properties outside of the city center can range from $100,000 to $200,000. Luxury properties or large estates can cost significantly more. It's also possible to rent a home in Cotacachi, with monthly rental prices typically ranging from $400 to $800. Please note that these are estimated prices and actual costs may vary," explained one expat living in Cotacachi, Ecuador.

"Cotacachi, is a popular destination for expats, and there are numerous clubs and activities they can join to meet people and integrate into the local community. One of the most popular is the Cotacachi Expats Group, which organizes regular social events, cultural activities, and volunteer opportunities. There are also language exchange groups where expats can practice their Spanish and locals can practice their English, fostering mutual understanding and friendships. For those interested in arts and crafts, there are various workshops and classes available, such as pottery, painting, and traditional Ecuadorian crafts. Music lovers can join local choirs or music groups, while sports enthusiasts can participate in local soccer clubs, hiking groups, or yoga classes. Expats can also get involved in community service or volunteer work, which is a great way to give back to the community and meet like-minded individuals. This could involve helping out at local schools, participating in environmental conservation projects, or assisting with community development initiatives. In addition to joining clubs and participating in activities, expats often meet people through everyday interactions. This could be at local markets, cafes, or festivals, or through their children's schools. Many expats also form connections through their housing communities or neighborhoods, as many areas in Cotacachi have a mix of locals and expats living side by side. Finally, online platforms and social media groups are also a great way for expats to connect with each other and with locals. These platforms often share information about upcoming events, local news, and tips for living in Cotacachi, making them a valuable resource for newcomers," commented one expat who made the move to Cotacachi.

"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," remarked one expat living in Cotacachi, Ecuador.

"I brought almost nothing and certainly nothing extra. Two checked bags and a carry-on. And in that luggage was a plunge-router for my Father-in-law, two espresso machines (I wish I'd brought gaskets) a waffle iron, and lots of favorite kitchen things. Spare parts of anything where sourcing is an issue. I wish I'd brought a couple of second-hand iPhones. I brought one but lost it to a pickpocket on the trolley in Quito. Electronics are a must if you use them. Spares are worth it as replacing them is neither cheap nor easy. There are lots of culinary ingredients that aren't readily available but I'm gradually finding them or learning how to make them. Things like hoisin sauce and horseradish and black bean sauce and curry paste. The availability of wonderful locally grown produce (both fruit and veggies) is one of the richnesses of Ecuador, but for whatever inexplicable reason the local cuisine is very bland and though reasonably healthy (though on the greasy side), lacks any pizzazz, or even much interest. I've always cooked because I love food, but now it is for survival and to keep my tastebuds from atrophying," commented one expat who made the move to Cotacachi.

"When moving to Cotacachi, it's important to pack clothing suitable for a mild climate, including light jackets for cooler evenings and rain gear for the wet season. You should also pack comfortable walking shoes, as the town is very walkable. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are essential to protect against the strong equatorial sun. Bring any prescription medications you need, as well as a basic first aid kit. It's also a good idea to pack insect repellent and any preferred over-the-counter medications, as they may not be readily available in Cotacachi. If you plan on cooking, consider packing some of your favorite spices or hard-to-find ingredients. While Cotacachi has grocery stores, they may not carry everything you're used to. Pack electronics like your laptop, smartphone, and e-reader, along with the necessary chargers and adapters. Ecuador uses Type A and Type B outlets, the same as in the United States. Don't forget important documents such as your passport, driver's license, and any necessary visas or residency paperwork. It's also a good idea to bring copies of these documents, as well as digital backups. Lastly, consider packing items that will make your new place feel like home, such as photos, small keepsakes, or your favorite books," remarked one expat living in Cotacachi, Ecuador.

"Cotacachi is a popular destination for expats due to its low cost of living, beautiful scenery, and welcoming community. Before retiring there, it's important to understand a few key things. Firstly, the official language is Spanish, so learning the language or at least basic phrases will be beneficial. However, due to the large expat community, English is also widely spoken. The cost of living is significantly lower than in many Western countries, but it's important to understand that this comes with a different standard of living. For example, while healthcare is affordable and generally good, it may not be up to the standards you're used to. The climate in Cotacachi is mild and spring-like year-round, which can be a big draw for those tired of harsh winters. However, it's also at a high altitude, which can take some getting used to and may not be suitable for those with certain health conditions. The culture in Ecuador is very different from that in Western countries, with a slower pace of life and a strong emphasis on family and community. It's important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. While crime rates are generally low in Cotacachi, petty crime such as pickpocketing can be an issue, so it's important to take precautions. Finally, while it's possible to live in Cotacachi without a car due to the walkability of the town and availability of public transportation, having your own vehicle can make it easier to explore the surrounding areas," remarked one expat living in Cotacachi, Ecuador.

"In Cotacachi, foreigners often find jobs as English teachers, working in language schools or offering private tutoring. Some work in the tourism industry, as tour guides or in hotels and restaurants. Others may find work in real estate, helping other expats to find and purchase property. There are also opportunities for foreigners to work in the arts and crafts industry, particularly if they have skills in traditional crafts. Some foreigners also start their own businesses, such as cafes or shops, or work remotely in fields like writing, graphic design, or online marketing," wrote a member in Cotacachi.

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Cotacachi is generally peaceful and relaxed. The town is small and quiet, with a slow pace of life that many foreigners find appealing. The cost of living is low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. The local population is friendly and welcoming to foreigners, and there is a growing community of expats and digital nomads. The town is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and lakes, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The climate is mild and pleasant, with warm days and cool nights. The town itself is clean and well-maintained, with a charming central plaza and a variety of shops and restaurants. Despite its small size, Cotacachi has a good infrastructure for digital nomads, with reliable internet and a number of cafes and coworking spaces. The town is also known for its leather goods, and there are plenty of opportunities to shop for unique, handmade items. While Spanish is the main language spoken in Cotacachi, many locals and most businesses also speak English, making it easy for expats and digital nomads to communicate. The town is also relatively safe, with low crime rates compared to other parts of Ecuador. However, life in Cotacachi is not without its challenges. Some expats may find the slow pace of life too quiet, and the town's remote location can make it difficult to access certain amenities and services. Additionally, while the local population is generally welcoming, there can be cultural differences that take some getting used to. Overall, Cotacachi offers a unique blend of tranquility, affordability, and natural beauty that makes it an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads," said one expat who made the move to Cotacachi.

"Cotacachi, as most towns in the Andes, is a craft village with high quality leather goods available in almost 100 shops on 'Leather Street.'," explained one expat living in Cotacachi, Ecuador.

"Expats in Cotacachi often appreciate the warm and welcoming nature of the local people. They are known for their friendliness and willingness to help newcomers settle in. The slower pace of life is also a big draw for many expats, as it allows for a more relaxed and stress-free lifestyle. The rich indigenous culture is another aspect that expats appreciate. The local Otavaleño people maintain their traditional customs and practices, which are often showcased in vibrant festivals and markets. Expats also appreciate the strong sense of community in Cotacachi. It's common for locals and expats to come together for community events, creating a sense of belonging and camaraderie. The local cuisine is another highlight for many expats. Ecuadorian food is diverse and flavorful, with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Finally, the natural beauty of Cotacachi is something that many expats appreciate. The town is surrounded by stunning landscapes, including two volcanic peaks, numerous lakes, and lush green valleys," wrote a member in Cotacachi.

"On the whole I have experienced the Ecuadorians to be honest. As a people they are culturally extremely polite. In my estimation they rivel the French with their protocols of politeness. "Buenos días, "Buenas tardes," "buenas noches, " "Saludos." If you don't greet someone, they feel slighted. And they address you by title, "don Ernesto". "doña Maria". o "mi señora linda". which is something we would never dare say in the north "my pretty lady."," commented one expat who made the move to Cotacachi.

"Expats in Cotacachi often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture, as Spanish is the primary language spoken and not everyone is fluent in English. They also struggle with the slower pace of life, which is a stark contrast to the fast-paced lifestyle many are accustomed to in their home countries. The local customs and traditions can also be difficult to understand and adapt to, especially for those who are not familiar with Latin American culture. Additionally, the lack of certain amenities and services that they are used to, such as high-speed internet or a wide variety of shopping options, can be a challenge. Lastly, some expats find it difficult to navigate the local bureaucracy, which can be complex and time-consuming," commented one expat who made the move to Cotacachi.

"Although scrupulously polite, I have not found the Ecuadorian people to be particularly friendly or outgoing. And they are extremely protective of their privacy. Which is why they often live behind eight-foot-high walls with wire or broken bottles on top. Whether the fear is justified or not I can't say, but it seems to infect most everyone. It is very unusual to invite someone into your home, or to be invited. Mostly, in my experience (only one opinion mind you) socializing is done within the family, not by getting together with friends to tell stories and share meals. That is one difference I find really hard to take. And they love noise. They honk, they put a big speaker outside each store and blast music assuming that everyone wants to hear. To me it is a form of polution, pure and simple. Give me quiet any day," remarked one expat living in Cotacachi, Ecuador.

"Cotacachi is generally considered a safe town with a low crime rate. Like any place, it is not completely free of crime, but serious offenses such as violent crimes are relatively rare. Most reported crimes are minor, such as petty theft or pickpocketing, particularly in crowded areas or during local festivals. Residents and visitors are advised to take standard precautions to protect their belongings. The local community and law enforcement work together to maintain the safety and security of the town," wrote one member in Cotacachi.

"Cotacachi is a diverse place, home to a mix of indigenous Kichwa people, mestizos, Afro-Ecuadorians, and a growing community of expatriates from North America and Europe. This blend of cultures contributes to a rich tapestry of traditions, languages, and customs. The local population is generally accepting of differences, with a strong emphasis on community and mutual respect. However, like any place, individual experiences may vary. The town is known for its efforts in promoting intercultural dialogue and harmony, and it was even recognized as a UNESCO City of Peace and Reconciliation in 2000," remarked one expat living in Cotacachi, Ecuador.

"About 1/3 of the local residents are Indigenous, still wearing their traditional dress," wrote one member in Cotacachi.

"Cotacachi, is a small town known for its indigenous culture and artisanal crafts. While it does not have a wide range of international or bilingual schools, there are a few educational institutions that cater to diverse learning needs. One of the most notable is the Cotacachi International Academy, which is a bilingual school that offers an American-style curriculum. The school is committed to providing a high-quality education that prepares students for a globalized world. They offer classes from pre-kindergarten through high school, and their curriculum includes a mix of Ecuadorian and international content. The school's website can be found at http://cotacachiacademy.com/. Another school in the area is the Escuela Bilingue Intercultural Kichwa, which is a bilingual school that offers instruction in both Spanish and Kichwa, the indigenous language of the region. This school is unique in that it integrates indigenous culture and knowledge into its curriculum, providing students with a rich and diverse educational experience. Unfortunately, they do not have a website available. While not an international school, the Unidad Educativa Cotacachi is a public school that offers education from kindergarten through high school. The school is known for its commitment to inclusive education and its focus on promoting respect for diversity and human rights. Their website can be found at http://unidadeducativacotacachi.gob.ec/. For those seeking a more alternative approach to education, the Pachamama School is a Waldorf-inspired school that offers a holistic, child-centered approach to education. The school is bilingual, with instruction offered in both Spanish and English. More information can be found on their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/pachamamaschool/. Please note that while these schools offer bilingual or international programs, they may not meet the standards of similar schools in larger cities or more developed countries. It's always recommended to visit and thoroughly research any school before enrolling your child," commented one expat when asked about in Cotacachi.

"We love Cotacachi, have become completely integrated here, started an animal rescue foundation and hospital, have now started an indigenous community project and have homesteaded a large and functioning animal farm. Ecuador is a dream come true," said one expat.

"I've been here five years and for a while, I had a PO box in Otavalo but only ever received one letter, I had a package sent (a GPS Unit) from Western Canada that was sent via Canada Post to what is basically General Delivery, Cotatachi. It did arrive, by a miracle, six months to the day after it was sent. I only found out about it because I went to the post office to ask another question and they said there was a package. During the pandemic, both the Cotacachi and Otavalo post offices closed their doors. The one in Cotacachi is now a very nice coffee shop. In Otavalo I think it's just locked up. I had some documents that needed to be sent, signed and sent back north and did it all via DHL.! $125 CAD to send the envelope here and $65US to send it on. But it works. Other than municipalities there are no house or street addresses. Where we live it is virtually impossible to describe our location for deliveries, so I tell whatever entity is sending to send it to their local office and I go to pick it up. That works great. Be sure to include your local (cell) number as part of the address so they can phone you to let you know that it has arrived. We're currently waiting for my Ecuadorian wife's passport to be returned from the US Embassy with her US visitor's visa installed and I assume they will send it to the DHL office in Otavalo where we will pick it up. It's not an efficient work-around but it is better than the pony express, marginally," commented one expat living in Cotacachi, Ecuador.

"Our expat community is very close and quite family like. They look out for each other and because we are a village, not a city, everyone knows each other," wrote one expat living in Cotacachi.

"There are lots of pros and cons to Ecuador of which I'm sure you are already aware. But one of the most important is to be aware that you will be coming to a non-English-speaking country. As tourism is not a huge factor here and the majority of the citizens don't travel much out of South America, learning English is not a priority or even of much use. My Spanish was fluent, if not perfect, when I moved here so I had a huge advantage. When you come, unless you are at least conversational in Spanish be prepared to feel some isolation that comes from the lack of an easy ability to communicate with the culture you came to visit. The other option would be to find a group of ex-pats and hang out with them speaking English. Neither my wife nor any of her family or my Ecuadorian friends speaks any English. I can go for weeks without speaking my mother tongue. By all means come, the adventure is wonderful but come with your eyes open," commented one expat who moved to Cotacachi.

"Very broad question. Single, married, age group, sophistication, how much of the world you have seen," said one expat.

"Expats in Cotacachi advise that housing is generally affordable and of good quality. They recommend renting before buying to get a feel for the area and to ensure it suits your lifestyle. It's also suggested to hire a local real estate agent who is familiar with the area and can help navigate the buying process. Expats also advise to be aware of the local customs and regulations regarding property ownership. They suggest that it's important to have a good understanding of the local language, Spanish, or to have a translator to help with negotiations and legal documents. They also recommend considering the location of the house in relation to amenities such as shops, restaurants, and healthcare facilities. Lastly, expats advise to be patient and take your time when looking for a house, as the process can be different than in other countries," said one expat living in Cotacachi.

"For anything serious we go to Ibarra or Quito, Cotacachi is a small village without a lot of health resources except for minor things," remarked one expat living in Cotacachi.

"I've lived here for five-plus years now, on the flanks of Volcan in Cotacachi where my Ecuadorian wife and I have built a home on 1000 sq. meters of property. The cost of living, which I estimate at about 10 – 15% of costs in Canada makes it possible for us to live well on my meager pension and maintain my investment portfolio for travel and splurges. I am a numbers guy by nature and keep a running spreadsheet of daily expenses, which since we are not even close to rich is necessary to try to control rampant spending. I'll make a list of the basics (more or less Fixed expenses): Phone: $30 for one unlimited cell phone with data. Internet: $22/month for good service of 30MBS fiberoptic. Electricity: Average of $25/month. Water, good clean potable water: amazing but true, $1 (one dollar/month.) Full medical coverage including most prescription drugs, through IESS, Ecuadorian medicare: $90/month for the two of us. Property tax: For whatever reason it has never exceeded $3/year. When we paid rent, before we built, it was $125/month for a two-bedroom apartment.. Our two-bedroom 2.5 bath home with big patio and carport cost around $35k to build, with me working along a team of five 'albaniles" masons who I paid $100/week for five long days of hard work, no coffee breaks, usually no lunch break as they eat while they worked and worked like demons with no pushing. The work ethic here is astounding. Food is divided into two catagories. Groceries (supermarket and local markets): Around $250/month for what we prepare at home and we eat extremely well. Dining out, a couple of times a week we have a (usually shared) meal out. About $80/month or less. The two of us can almost always eat very well for under $6 for both. No added tax, no tips. What you see on the menu is what you pay. Period. We spend hardly anything on alcohol so that's not relevant since we might have a drink once or twice a month and never out. We have a car, which are extremely expensive to buy but not too bad to maintain. Mechanics are good, lots of competition, and often work for an hour or more for $10. Or they say forget it if the job is easy, or they ask for a couple of bucks (for a cola). Nobody that I know who drives has automobile insurance. Or homeowners insurance for that matter. I've never figured out what the 'bomberos' firemen do all day. Reminds me of the old ads for the Maytag repairmen. Everything is built of concrete, cement blocks or bricks. Tile surfaces and concrete floors and ceilings. Food in the markets, fresh, wonderful fruit and vegetables are 10% to 20% of what they cost in the north, for me British Columbia, Canada. I find myself getting pissy if avocados cost more than 3/$. Mangos 2 or 3/$. Lettuce is $0.50 head, as are broccoli and fresh greenbeans. Vine-ripe tomatoes are usually$0.10/each. bananas $0.02/each, Onions and bell peppers are often 6-10/$. Eggs are high now, at $3.50-$4/for a flat (cubeta) of 30. usually in the fresh produce world prices are given in a how many for a dollar. Fresh meat is sold by the pound. Beef is about $1.50-2.00/lb. Pork is $2-2.50/lb for any cut. whole chicken costs about $1.25/lb, and pieces (legs and thighs, or breasts are around $150/lb. I could go on, but you get the idea. Come find out for yourself," wrote one expat living in Cotacachi.