LOMA WASI VILLAGE
Cotacachi, Imbabura, Ecuador
An amazing and comfortable room with a beautiful view of the Imbabura volcano. At the foot of the room there is a wonderful family garden with hammocks and breathtaking views!
$35 AIRBNB FREE TRAVEL CREDIT
ABOUT
The Property is located in Tunibamba a 10 minute drive from Cotacachi and there is a large vegetable and botanical Garden right outside your door. If you wish - they prepare meals for you from their gardens for only $2.50. Fresh fruits from the trees, traditional recipes, milk from their cows and more!
They have cats and dogs and farm animals such as cows, pigs, chickens, and guinea pigs. While I was there I went for a morning walk to check on the baby piglets and I came across a newly born baby cow! He had just been born an hour prior and was trying to walk with his wobbly legs!
THE ROOM
I had my own room with two single beds and a private bathroom with hot water plus free wifi. In addition you can make use of the shared kitchen with the family. While sitting in my bed I had a clear view of the volcano and fruit garden! Waking up every morning was such a treat!
The beds were comfortable and the room was spotless with secured windows and doors to keep any bugs out. Definitely a plus. :)
The Property is located in Tunibamba a 10 minute drive from Cotacachi and there is a large vegetable and botanical Garden right outside your door. If you wish - they prepare meals for you from their gardens for only $2.50. Fresh fruits from the trees, traditional recipes, milk from their cows and more!
They have cats and dogs and farm animals such as cows, pigs, chickens, and guinea pigs. While I was there I went for a morning walk to check on the baby piglets and I came across a newly born baby cow! He had just been born an hour prior and was trying to walk with his wobbly legs!
THE ROOM
I had my own room with two single beds and a private bathroom with hot water plus free wifi. In addition you can make use of the shared kitchen with the family. While sitting in my bed I had a clear view of the volcano and fruit garden! Waking up every morning was such a treat!
The beds were comfortable and the room was spotless with secured windows and doors to keep any bugs out. Definitely a plus. :)
INTERACTION WITH GUESTS
If you would like you can participate in daily activities that are characteristic of country life within their Indian customs such as crop planting, care of pets and Indian Traditional Medicine.
Ecuador is recognized by the world for its rich biodiversity. A practical benefit of this for Indigenous Ecuadorians is that when one is a pain and it seems that there is no pharmaceutical medicine able to remove , often the solution is in the soil and in plants. They practice Experiential Tourism, and share their indigenous lifestyle with all of their visitors, this involves the planting and harvesting as part of the life experience.
1. Medicinal Guinea Pic (Cuy) Diagnostic- Cleaning using a live guinea-pig.
The Quichua believe that the guinea pig, which resembles a human internally, can absorb the "mal aire" from a patient. The point at which it absorbs the energy is the point at which it dies. They believe that once open, any pathology inside reflects the pathology in the patient and that the cuy can even diagnose cancer.
2. Treating Diseases and Ailments- Natural Indigenous Medicine
The Quichua system operates on the idea of harmony: balance between mind and body, hot and cold, and the self and the environment. You can learn and improve health using easily some indigenous techniques.
3. Dream Interpretation
An ancient women will help you with dream interpretation which will help you be more aware of your lifestyle.
4. Ear cleaning
A natural method and it is very easy to apply. They teach about the process and then you can continue to practice this remedy when you are back home!
If you would like you can participate in daily activities that are characteristic of country life within their Indian customs such as crop planting, care of pets and Indian Traditional Medicine.
Ecuador is recognized by the world for its rich biodiversity. A practical benefit of this for Indigenous Ecuadorians is that when one is a pain and it seems that there is no pharmaceutical medicine able to remove , often the solution is in the soil and in plants. They practice Experiential Tourism, and share their indigenous lifestyle with all of their visitors, this involves the planting and harvesting as part of the life experience.
1. Medicinal Guinea Pic (Cuy) Diagnostic- Cleaning using a live guinea-pig.
The Quichua believe that the guinea pig, which resembles a human internally, can absorb the "mal aire" from a patient. The point at which it absorbs the energy is the point at which it dies. They believe that once open, any pathology inside reflects the pathology in the patient and that the cuy can even diagnose cancer.
2. Treating Diseases and Ailments- Natural Indigenous Medicine
The Quichua system operates on the idea of harmony: balance between mind and body, hot and cold, and the self and the environment. You can learn and improve health using easily some indigenous techniques.
3. Dream Interpretation
An ancient women will help you with dream interpretation which will help you be more aware of your lifestyle.
4. Ear cleaning
A natural method and it is very easy to apply. They teach about the process and then you can continue to practice this remedy when you are back home!
THE NEIGHBORHOOD
The house is a 7 minute drive from the adorable town of Cotacachi. There is so much to look at while driving or walking - you get to experience how locals actually live instead of touring a built up tourist area. Houses built of mud and stone, dirt roads, local farming, beautiful plant life, small streams passing under the cobble stone bridges, kids playing in the fields and more! I always felt safe here and the people are very friendly!
GETTING AROUND
They will organize a Taxi service for you if you would like! From the house to Cotacachi was about $3 USD or you could choose to move on foot without any problems - it would just take a lot longer!
The house is a 7 minute drive from the adorable town of Cotacachi. There is so much to look at while driving or walking - you get to experience how locals actually live instead of touring a built up tourist area. Houses built of mud and stone, dirt roads, local farming, beautiful plant life, small streams passing under the cobble stone bridges, kids playing in the fields and more! I always felt safe here and the people are very friendly!
GETTING AROUND
They will organize a Taxi service for you if you would like! From the house to Cotacachi was about $3 USD or you could choose to move on foot without any problems - it would just take a lot longer!
TOWN OF COTACACHI
Cotacachi embraces the laid-back lifestyle, away from the bustle of city life, but it is in no way isolated. The capital of Ecuador, Quito, is only an hour and a half away from Cotacachi and international flights arrive in Quito daily.
The town is known as the "leather town" with good reason - it is the best place to buy great quality, cheap leather goods in Ecuador. Shopping for leather products in Ecuador couldn't be easier in Cotacachi. Simply head to the main street, where all the leather shops are clustered for your convenience. Don't forget to negotiate a cheaper price - they are all willing to come down a bit to make a sale!
I bought an amazing leather duffle bag, handmade, and sturdy for only $70. The bag would have cost me hundreds in the states and wouldn't have came close to the quality! Every time I get a compliment on it and they ask where it's from... I have to inform them they must fly to Ecuador to get one! ;)
Cotacachi embraces the laid-back lifestyle, away from the bustle of city life, but it is in no way isolated. The capital of Ecuador, Quito, is only an hour and a half away from Cotacachi and international flights arrive in Quito daily.
The town is known as the "leather town" with good reason - it is the best place to buy great quality, cheap leather goods in Ecuador. Shopping for leather products in Ecuador couldn't be easier in Cotacachi. Simply head to the main street, where all the leather shops are clustered for your convenience. Don't forget to negotiate a cheaper price - they are all willing to come down a bit to make a sale!
I bought an amazing leather duffle bag, handmade, and sturdy for only $70. The bag would have cost me hundreds in the states and wouldn't have came close to the quality! Every time I get a compliment on it and they ask where it's from... I have to inform them they must fly to Ecuador to get one! ;)
Must go to Cafe Rio Intag!
Address: 9 de Octubre | Parque San Francisco, Cotacachi, Ecuador. (on Calle Imbabura between Banco Pinchincha and the Church at Parque San Francisco.)
Cafe Rio Intag, also affectionately known as "Eddie's", is a must to visit when you're in Cotacachi. You can get an excellent Italian style and quality, expertly prepared coffee, a piece of a very good cake (several choices), a sandwich, read a magazine, and meet Cotacachi expats and local people, have a chat and get the information about Cotacachi and local events first-hand.
You can also buy a package of high quality, low-acid coffee grown in the Intag region to use at home, or an artisanal chocolate made by a local chocolatier. Best of all, Eddie and his staff are outgoing, friendly and helpful; Eddie speaks perfect English. The cafe has strong wi-fi, so you can bring your laptop and catch up with your email while sitting on the small patio overlooking the park.
P.s. They also have alcoholic coffee drinks! ;)
Address: 9 de Octubre | Parque San Francisco, Cotacachi, Ecuador. (on Calle Imbabura between Banco Pinchincha and the Church at Parque San Francisco.)
Cafe Rio Intag, also affectionately known as "Eddie's", is a must to visit when you're in Cotacachi. You can get an excellent Italian style and quality, expertly prepared coffee, a piece of a very good cake (several choices), a sandwich, read a magazine, and meet Cotacachi expats and local people, have a chat and get the information about Cotacachi and local events first-hand.
You can also buy a package of high quality, low-acid coffee grown in the Intag region to use at home, or an artisanal chocolate made by a local chocolatier. Best of all, Eddie and his staff are outgoing, friendly and helpful; Eddie speaks perfect English. The cafe has strong wi-fi, so you can bring your laptop and catch up with your email while sitting on the small patio overlooking the park.
P.s. They also have alcoholic coffee drinks! ;)
#2 - LA JUNGLA BUNGALOWS
Mompiche, Esmeraldas, Ecuador
Escape to La Jungla! Mompiche, was a breath of fresh are when I arrived - just the way I like it: all natural, lush, laid back, and steps from the Pacific. This place was absolutely the best place in town if you're looking for more than just a hostel vibe and the staff became my friends very quickly! Strong Wifi!
The Kiribati Bungalow is a custom-built eco-tropical bamboo slice of paradise right on the Pacific Ocean and Mompiche's Malecon. Incredible views from the balcony, a full kitchen and laid back lounging areas, and plenty of "jungle feel" with thoughtfully crafted details throughout. Ocean views without lifting your head from the pillow in the double bed upstairs.
- Sleeps 4
- Includes full kitchen
- Literally sits ON the beach - it's about 15 feet above the sand and when I was there the waves came underneath the balcony!
- Includes access to beach patio, bar and hammock area overlooking the ocean
- Perfect for travelers who enjoy staying in a bit more and relaxing. Plenty of space to roam around, cook, play games on the kitchen table or sit on the front porch, read a good book or just stare at the waves! Pretty sure I spent more time on the oceanfront balcony than in the bed. :)
The Papua Bungalow is a custom-built two-story jungle/beach bungalow features an interior bathroom garden, open-ceiling shower, Indo-style garden lounging area with hammock & swing, cushy new mattresses, lots of light, plush towels, and thoughtfully artistic details...your tropical paradise awaits! Upstairs is a private double room for couples and downstairs is an extra-big bunk bed perfect for kids or single friends. Artisan details abound!
- Sleeps 4
- Doesn't include Kitchen
- 1 minute walk to the beach through a jungle oasis
- Includes access to beach patio, bar and hammock area overlooking the ocean
- Great space if you plan to be out during the day exploring and laying on the beach
INTERACTION WITH GUESTS
Amy and Moronga are available to interact with guests as much, or as little, as you would like. They create a friendly, inclusive, and helpful "community" type vibe in all bungalows. Amy helped me plan logistics prior to arriving in Ecuador and was my go to for any questions along the way - I was so impressed with how helpful they were all around.
THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Situated at end of Mompiche's mellow Malecon, with what is hands-down the best view of its surf point and crescent bay offers an idyllic location for your stay in paradise. Watch the artisan fishing boats coming and going from your secluded balcony, contemplate the waves without even lifting your head from the pillow, or hang out with fellow adventurers at next-door Punto de Encuentro surf gathering spot-- this is what people mean by a tropical escape!
The tiny fishing village of Mompiche has only recently been "discovered" for its world-class surfing point-- producing the longest warm-water left in South America. As a result, it still retains much of the rich Afro-ecuadorian culture that makes Esmeraldas Province such a memorable experience for visitors.
Nestled at the southern end of a gorgeous crescent bay and surrounded by the jungles of Mache-Chindul Ecological Reserve, adventures for nature-lovers are endless here. All roads are dirt and it is truly a beach town that hasn't been built up yet. You will not find any fancy hotels here!
GETTING AROUND
Everything in Mompiche can be easily accessed by foot. "Town" consists of a friendly village that takes approximately 5 minutes to cross, the surf point that made Mompiche famous is a 5-10 minute walk down a beautiful tropical beach, and mile upon mile of picturesque oceanfront hikes are available for exploring both to the north and south of Mompiche proper. You can take a direct bus from Quito here for less than $10usd.
Amy and Moronga are available to interact with guests as much, or as little, as you would like. They create a friendly, inclusive, and helpful "community" type vibe in all bungalows. Amy helped me plan logistics prior to arriving in Ecuador and was my go to for any questions along the way - I was so impressed with how helpful they were all around.
THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Situated at end of Mompiche's mellow Malecon, with what is hands-down the best view of its surf point and crescent bay offers an idyllic location for your stay in paradise. Watch the artisan fishing boats coming and going from your secluded balcony, contemplate the waves without even lifting your head from the pillow, or hang out with fellow adventurers at next-door Punto de Encuentro surf gathering spot-- this is what people mean by a tropical escape!
The tiny fishing village of Mompiche has only recently been "discovered" for its world-class surfing point-- producing the longest warm-water left in South America. As a result, it still retains much of the rich Afro-ecuadorian culture that makes Esmeraldas Province such a memorable experience for visitors.
Nestled at the southern end of a gorgeous crescent bay and surrounded by the jungles of Mache-Chindul Ecological Reserve, adventures for nature-lovers are endless here. All roads are dirt and it is truly a beach town that hasn't been built up yet. You will not find any fancy hotels here!
GETTING AROUND
Everything in Mompiche can be easily accessed by foot. "Town" consists of a friendly village that takes approximately 5 minutes to cross, the surf point that made Mompiche famous is a 5-10 minute walk down a beautiful tropical beach, and mile upon mile of picturesque oceanfront hikes are available for exploring both to the north and south of Mompiche proper. You can take a direct bus from Quito here for less than $10usd.
Must go to La Chocolata!
Address: Calle la Fosforera | Camino a la punta, Mompiche, Ecuador.
No one will know where that is at - so instead follow these directions. You will arrive in Mompiche on a main dirt road which ends straight into the ocean.
Walk the dirt road straight towards the ocean and take the left about 30 feet before the main road ends at the beach. La Chocolata is a 30 second walk on your left - bright orange wooden shack!
Address: Calle la Fosforera | Camino a la punta, Mompiche, Ecuador.
No one will know where that is at - so instead follow these directions. You will arrive in Mompiche on a main dirt road which ends straight into the ocean.
Walk the dirt road straight towards the ocean and take the left about 30 feet before the main road ends at the beach. La Chocolata is a 30 second walk on your left - bright orange wooden shack!
- This place is run by an Argentinian family and is such a gem! There was a line outside the door in the mornings because everyone wants to snag the first batch of baked goods and fresh loafs of bread. I was definitely one of the people in line.
- Their breakfast was just what I was looking for before starting the day. Simple, homemade, eggs, toast, fruit, granola and more! Not to mention the deliciously made cappuccino - yum! Nothing cost me more than $3 and they make panini's for lunch on their homemade ciabatta bread. Friendly laid back vibe!
