Top Things to Do in Machachi

Machachi, Ecuador

About the City

Machachi, Ecuador is a picturesque town nestled in the stunning Avenue of the Volcanoes, offering an authentic slice of Andean life. It's a place where llamas roam as freely as the town's vibrant market vibes. Boasting an impressive backdrop of lush green hills, locals regard the town as the unofficial 'capital of chagra culture' - think Ecuadorian cowboys showcasing their equestrian skills. Bathed in a temperate, eternal spring climate, the fertile land around Machachi gifts your palate with delicious produce, and your eyes get a feast of beautiful flower farms. Adventure seekers find their haven here by hiking, horseback riding, or mountain biking through breathtaking scenery. Yet, it's not all roses; the town is often brushed aside by tourists heading to more glamorous destinations, and some may find its tranquility veering on quiet for those looking for a buzzing nightlife. Additionally, being situated quite high up does mean the air is thinner, which might leave some visitors a tad breathless. But hey, taking it slow is synonymous with savoring life, right? After all, Machachi's charm lies in its laid-back pace, friendly people, and the immersive cultural experiences that come from simply being there.

Things to Do in Machachi

Feast on Cuy Asado

Food & Drink

Get ready to nibble on some crispy, savory cuy (guinea pig), a true Andean delicacy. This little critter is a big deal around here, roasted to perfection and often served with a side of potatoes and a...

Catch the Thrills on Canyoning Adventures

Outdoors

Splash, rappel, jump, and swim through the exhilarating canyons near Machachi. Are you ready to make a splash on your vacay?

Pamper a Plant

The Unexpected

Embrace your inner green thumb and get those hands dirty. Plant a tree and leave a living legacy that'll keep on giving long after you've hit the road. It's like Mother Nature's high-five for helping ...

Stargaze Secrets

The Unexpected

Ready to get starstruck? Up in the highlands, away from city glow, gaze up for a cosmic show. Machachi's night sky is a twinkling delight, a constellational spectacle that's outta sight! Find Orion's ...

Sketch the Scenery

The Unexpected

Channel your inner Picasso and keep those memories in vivid color! Grab some pencils or paints, find a picturesque spot, and let Machachi's mountains inspire your masterpiece. Sketchy skills or not, i...

Milking Mastery

The Unexpected

Got milk? Now you will! Try your hand at milking a cow and earn your bragging rights as a dairy daredevil. Bonus points if you can aim straight into a cup o' java. It's udderly amazing!

Birdwatching Bliss

Outdoors

Put on your explorer's hat and get ready to play 'I Spy' with some feathered friends! Machachi is a birdwatcher's paradise, where you can spot a flamboyance of flamingos doing their one-legged stand o...

Camp Under the Stars at Cotopaxi

Outdoors

Unwind and unplug with a camping trip in the foothills of the epic Cotopaxi Volcano. Bring marshmallows and your best campfire tales!

Summit the Majestic Rumiñahui

Outdoors

Got a taste for altitude with attitude? Conquer the top of Rumiñahui, where you'll earn bragging rights and breathtaking views. Lace up those hiking boots!

Giddy Up on the Chagra Trails

Outdoors

Saddle up, partner! It's time to live out your cowboy dreams and explore the Andean countryside on horseback, Chagra style.

Indulge in a Plate of Chugchucaras

Food & Drink

Dive mouth-first into the crispy, crunch-tastic world of chugchucaras – a platter of deep-fried pork, mote (hominy), plantains, and empanadas. It's a feast that'll have you patting your belly in pure ...

Bask in the Tranquility of La Moya

Sights

Slide into the serenity of La Moya, a hidden gem where you can wander through eucalyptus forests, spot local wildlife, and picnic by tranquil streams. It's like Narnia, but in the Andes!

Soak in Hot Springs Heaven

Sights

Ditch the hustle and treat yourself to a soak in the thermal waters near Machachi. Let the healing waters work their magic on your muscles, while you chill out and get that natural spa vibe going.

Cowboy Up at a Rodeo

Sights

Yeehaw! Strut into a local rodeo and get ready to cheer on real-deal cowboys. It's all hats, hooves, and dust flying around, with enough excitement to make you contemplate a career change.

Breathe in the Green at La Viudita Nature Reserve

Sights

Slap on some comfy shoes and lose yourself amongst the whispering trees and chirping birds in La Viudita. It's the eco-spot you didn't know you needed, ready to blow your mind with its greenery!

Ride the Rails of Adventure

Sights

Hop on the Machachi Train and toot-toot your way through the breathtaking Avenue of the Volcanoes! Say 'Choo Choo!' as you chug past jaw-dropping landscapes, mighty peaks, and wave at the llamas doing...

Chug a Morocho

Food & Drink

Get ready to slurp down the sweet, hearty corn-based drink known as Morocho. Often spiced with cinnamon and cloves, it's like a warm hug from the inside out!

Relish in a Sizzling Seco de Chivo

Food & Drink

Dive into the rich and hearty flavors of Seco de Chivo, a sumptuous stew that's the talk of the town! Tender goat meat slow-cooked to perfection, soaking in a savory sauce that's a blend of aromatic h...

Nibble on a Luscious Empanada de Viento

Food & Drink

Get ready to indulge in a crispy, flaky treat that's bursting with cheese and sprinkled with sugar! Empanada de Viento is a delightful pastry that will make your taste buds dance a happy little salsa....

Master the Art of Cheese Making

The Unexpected

Ever dreamt of becoming a cheese guru? Roll up your sleeves, because it's time to learn the secret behind the succulent cheeses of Machachi! Dive into the world of curds and whey as you get hands-on e...