A dormitory town of the Colombian capital, Machachi sits just about 54 kilometers from Quito. It is one of the main gateways to Cotopaxi National Park, home to the eponymous volcano and Ecuador's second-highest summit. Yet this locality remains largely unknown to tourists, who tend to focus on the region's natural attractions.

History

Machachi's history dates back to the 16th century, when the region was occupied by the Panzaleos, who settled on the foothills of Rumiñahui and Pasochoa. It was a small village during the colonial era and served as a waypoint for reaching Quito or Latacunga. But Machachi became one of the region's most important cities in the early 19th century.

On November 11, 1820, the city gained its independence through an uprising led by its parish priest, Dr. Tadeo Romo, alongside José Camino, Tomás Pazmiño, and Antonio Benítez. This event was triggered by Cuenca's independence and took place simultaneously with those of other cities such as Guaranda, Latacunga, and Riobamba. Later, Machachi welcomed Simón Bolívar's and Antonio José de Sucre's liberation army during their march to free Quito.

Güitig, Ecuador's most famous and best-selling mineral water brand, was born in Machachi in the late 19th century. Its production was industrialized by Frenchman Pierre Denis in the early following century.

The city experienced considerable development throughout the 20th century, thanks to the trans-Andean railway, Tesalia springs, and the Pan-American highway. It had 16,515 inhabitants in 2010, ranking it as the sixty-sixth most populated city in Ecuador.

What to visit in Machachi?

Among the most visited tourist sites in Machachi and its surroundings are:

Cotopaxi National Park

This is the region's number-one attraction. This protected area is dominated by Cotopaxi volcano, which rises to 5,897 meters in altitude and is typically snow-covered. With a guide, you can climb it to reach its summit. You'll traverse haciendas and discover landscapes of great beauty before arriving at the park. Besides trekking, it also lends itself to cycling and horseback riding.

San Miguel del Pedregal Waterfall

This imposing cascade sits in the heart of an Andean forest inhabited by a wide variety of birds. It is 8 kilometers away from Machachi.

Iglesia Matriz de Machachi

This is the city's most remarkable church. It blends several architectural styles, including baroque. Its history traces back to the late 17th century, when Franciscan missionaries undertook the construction of an adobe temple and covered it with thatch. The religious site progressively transformed into a complex, now encompassing a church, a convent (1810 to 1827), and a chapel dedicated to the patron saint Santiago Apóstol.

Rumiñahui Volcano

Climbing Rumiñahui volcano, you'll come upon a natural balcony offering surprising views of majestic mountains, such as Cotopaxi, Illinizas, Pasochoa, and Sincholagua, among many others. The trail leading to it is of moderate difficulty.

Tesalia

This attraction is located 4.4 km from Machachi. It is known for its thermal spa, which comprises two mineral-rich pools fed by springs from snow-capped mountains and volcanoes. Sports facilities are also available on site.

La Calera

Just 2.5 km from the Alóag Obelisk sits La Calera, a beautiful spot accessible by a paved road. Here, you can admire the San Luis waterfall, which plunges from a height of 25 meters. The cascade is nestled beside the La Calera hydroelectric plant, which supplies power to the country's electrical grid.

What to do in Machachi?

Discover the Sunday fair

Every Sunday, Machachi's city center shines with a thousand colors, with varied vegetables, different types of tubers, grains, and colorful fruits. This place will surely immerse you in local life.

Attend the Feria de Barros

If you visit Machachi in November, during the feast of the dead, you'll have the chance to attend this traditional Feria de Barros fair. This event unfolds on the city's main streets and showcases local craftsmanship. You'll find a wide range of products, from kitchen utensils to decorative objects, passing through plaster, porcelain, and clay figurines. Also take this occasion to taste the region's culinary delights, such as colada morada and guaguas de pan.

Practical information

When to visit?

Machachi is favorable for tourism during the dry season, that is, from June to September. However, if rain doesn't bother you and you wish to enjoy lush vegetation, opt for the period extending from November to April.

Machachi is connected to Quito via the Pan-American highway. Buses serving it from that city depart from Quitumbe's Terminal Terrestre. The journey takes approximately one hour. You can also reach it by taxi, which will cost about 14 euros.