Culture, Tradition and Charming Landscapes.

Small towns around Ecuador, known as the "Country of the Four Worlds," exquisitely capture the essence, history, customs, and flavours of the local populace. Referred to as Rincones Mágicos, or Magic Corners, and regarded as genuine hidden gems, these locations have a unique character that allows visitors to take in the richness and splendour of the nation.

Ten Magic Corners are spread across the capital cities of Ecuador and provinces, with the majority of them situated in neighbourhoods, streets, blocks, or parishes. These locations serve as hubs for the country's population growth. Each of these nooks has an amazing past that enthrals visitors, along with a rich legacy, gorgeous scenery, and an ethereal atmosphere.

Carnaval Cuenca

Latacunga, the provincial seat of Cotopaxi and home to the massive Cotopaxi volcano, is one of them. Its historic core, which was recently designated as a "Historic Centre and Heritage," is home to 21 tourist sites, 36 businesses, and a variety of cultural events. Its rich history, which dates back to pre-Columbian times, melds with its colonial architecture. The city also honours its customs and culture, emphasising La Mama Negra as a component of its intangible cultural heritage. Latacunga offers a variety of regional delicacies, including real Máchica, queso de hoja, chugchucaras, and allullas.

Guaranda is the perfect place to go if you're looking for a real experience in the middle of the outdoors. Seven hills surround this town in the province of Bolvar, which has a thriving and traditional historic centre. The Municipal Palace, the Santa Mariana de Jesus Church, and Simon Bolivar Liberator Central Park are among the region's most notable tourist destinations. Though its traditional cuisine, which consists of dishes like ice cream, fritters, chigüiles, and tortillas made from corn and wheat, is one of the region's most alluring features.

The Salinas de Guaranda, another site to see with its vibrant homes and hilly surroundings, is located in the northeastern part of the city of Guaranda. It is well-known for its salt extraction process as well as for its handcrafted cheese, chocolates, and other regional goods. In addition, it provides 19 enterprises, seven tourist sites, and a variety of events that highlight regional customs and volunteerism. These include the Salt Mines, Cerro Quindimuncho, and the Farallones de Tiagua, which are great for hiking and taking in the scenery.

Riobamba

"City of the First Fruits" is the name of a location in the nation's centre. Riobamba, which is in the Chimborazo province, is particularly notable for its breathtaking surroundings, which include snow-capped mountains and hilly terrain. With structures like the Leon Theatre and the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus that date back more than four centuries, the Historic Heritage Centre is home to a rich architectural past. Riobamba provides an amazing culinary experience, with regional specialties like hornado, ceviches de chochos, empanadas de morocho, and the iconic paila ice cream.

Cuenca is a must, too, as every corner has its own unique qualities. a city that has earned the moniker "Athens of Ecuador" for its magnificent architecture, diverse population, and important contributions to the arts and sciences of the nation. Situated in the province of Azuay, it provides a diverse array of cultural experiences, including trips to museums and old cathedrals, in addition to customary events like the Crafts Festival of America and the Carnival of the Rivers. However, its cuisine is renowned for delicacies like chicha and tamales, which combine regional tastes with global influences to create a taste that would entice even the gods of Greece to sample.

Salinas

Last but not least, Vilcabamba, a hidden treasure in the province of Loja, is known as the "Valley of Longevity" due to the vigour of its centuries-old residents, who credit their long lives to the water and pleasant environment of the area. This location provides stunning scenery like the Cerro Mandango and the cool El Palto waterfall in the Podocarpus National Park, in addition to restorative pursuits like spas and therapeutic treatments. Vilcabamba is also a source of joy due to its high-altitude coffee, which is intoxicating with delicious scents, and its enthusiastic celebration of historical events like Carnival.

Apart from the previously listed Magic Corners, there are additional equally captivating locations. Otavalo provides a distinctive cultural experience in the province of Imbabura. It is well-known for its indigenous market and the friendliness of its inhabitants. The richness of Orellana, in the Ecuadorian Amazon, and the excitement of exploring the Amazon jungle entice visitors. Olón is a peaceful beach paradise on the coast that's perfect for unwinding and taking in breathtaking sunsets. Conversely, Montañita, another coastal town, is well-known for its free-spirited vibe and ideal surfing waves, drawing tourists and surfers from all over the world.

Despite their differences, they all have the same objective of providing tourists with unique experiences that encapsulate the spirit and variety of the nation and entice them to explore, uncover, and fall in love with its many nooks and crannies.

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