CotacachiCayapas

CotacachiCayapas Ecological Reserve is a protected area in Ecuador. It is located in the northwestern part of the country, in the provinces of Imbabura and Esmeraldas. The reserve covers an area of approximately 200,000 hectares and is part of the Western Andes and the Chocó biogeographic region.

The reserve's name comes from two important features within its boundaries: the Imbabura volcano, often referred to as Cotacachi, and the Cayapas River, a significant waterway. The topography is diverse, ranging from high Andean páramo ecosystems at elevations above 3,000 meters to lush tropical cloud forests and lowland rainforests. This altitudinal variation supports an exceptional biodiversity.

CotacachiCayapas is renowned for its rich flora and fauna. It is home to numerous endemic species, meaning they are found nowhere else on Earth. Birdlife is particularly abundant, with species like the Andean Condor, quetzals, and various hummingbirds inhabiting the different altitudinal zones. Mammals found in the reserve include spectacled bears, pumas, and monkeys. The plant life is equally varied, with orchids, bromeliads, and ancient trees thriving in the humid environments.

The reserve plays a crucial role in conserving these unique ecosystems and the water sources that originate within its territory, supplying several nearby communities. It is also a significant area for scientific research and ecotourism, offering opportunities to experience the natural beauty and biodiversity of Ecuador's northern Andes and Pacific lowlands. Indigenous communities, such as the Cayapa people, also reside within or near the reserve, maintaining their traditional way of life and contributing to its cultural landscape.