The tourism project is managed by Kichwa- Karanki indigenous families who live at the feet of the Imbabura Volcano.  These families are mostly dedicated to agriculture. They live half an hour away from the province’s capital city, Ibarra, at an altitude of 2.800 m (aprox. 9.200 ft) above sea level.

Families at the San Clemente community offer 1 – 5 day tours including the following activities: hikes, horseback riding to the nearby Cubilche lagoon, visits to handicraft workshops (mostly textiles), climbing tour to the Imbabura volcano, as well as the opportunity to participate in their family and community daily activities. They offer lodging in family homes, organic food and local guides.

Community-based Tourism Experience Ecuador  from within

This section is a contribution of the Ministry of Tourism to the development of community-based tourism

Community-based tourism offers the opportunity to experience a full intercultural relationship while contributing to community development and the conservation of natural resources and cultural traditions. The Ministry of Tourism has committed to the development of this kind of tourism which should provide a sound development tool for communities and allow them to improve their living conditions.

Communities become hosts and display their traditions, cultural expressions, art, gastronomy and natural environment. Many are open to share their local festivities, handcrafting, and their knowledge of medical plants, among other cultural traditions. Moreover, they have developed additional activities for visitors to enjoy, such as hikes, and bird watching. Step off the beaten path and allow the native communities to be your hosts!

For more information, contact the Ecuador Plurinational Federation of Community-Based Tourism (FEPTCE):  Quito (593 2) 2509 907, Otavalo (593 6) 2926 814, Riobamba (593 3) 2951 996, Cuenca (593 7) 2844 538, Tena (593 6) 2888 479.

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