Ecuador has a rich history that dates back 3500 years BC, that’s how Ecuadorians have a deep connection with the natural scenario where they have been living for generations, trying to explain why some natural events take place in the country. Ancient stories explain how Imbabura Volcano, being a male mountain, got married with Cotacachi Volcano, which is a female one. When you walk around Imbabura you can see how land here tends to be dry and rocky, while Cotacachi is all blooming, humid and green.

In this story, Cayambe Volcano, just near the area, was trying to flirt with Cotacachi as he could see her from his snow-capped summit. Imbabura got so jealous he sent clouds to Cotacachi, so she would be covered from others' view. That’s why Cotacachi is frequently foggy.

Mountains, villages, towns, rivers, beaches, moorlands, and all nature have a historical name that identifies them and allows the traveler to know about the cultural background of the people of this land.

Historically, this liaison has developed incredible gastronomy reflecting the land’s abundance. For example, the oldest evidence of the use of cacao in the world was found in the southern Ecuadorian Amazon, where it was already consumed more than 5000 years ago. That’s why chocolate here is very sophisticated and it can be seen on unique trails while visiting some local plantations. Hot chocolate is drunk in Ecuador, mixed with cheese and a little bit of salt.

Ecuadorians manifest these ancient traditions, knowledge, and ways of expression in every corner of the country. Being the most densely populated country in South America, magic is all around.