Almost 2,000m above sea level, Catacocha is the half way point between Macara and Loja. It is also the capital of Paltas province, named after the Palta Indians who reigned before the arrival of the Incas. Ruins and evidence of their existence still exists today.

If you want to experience the market at its brightest and busiest, then visit on a Sunday. For those staying overnight there's the choice of four hotels providing adequate but basic accommodation.

Heading South to Macara
After leaving Catacocha head South to Macara [the border]. When you get to the Military Base, head West at the junction, towards El Empalme. Along the way you'll pass through the villages of Alamor, Celica and the Puyango Petrified forest.

Southwest from Celica, Zapotillo is a well preserved river fronted town on the Ecuadorean-Peruvian border with some 5,500 inhabitants. Some 3^1/2 hours away from Zapotillo is Lalamor. From here you can easily take a bus to the Peruvian villages of Sullana and Lancones.

Last updated 11th July 2006