population: 0.12 million

extension: 197 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Latacunga and want to visit museums, a great place to start is the Casa de la Cultura Benjamín Carrión. This cultural center has several exhibition spaces that showcase various aspects of Ecuadorian culture, art, and history. Another option is the Museo Internacional de la Medicina (International Museum of Medicine), where you can learn about the history of medicine and medical practices from around the world.

If you're interested in similar types of places near Latacunga, you might want to check out the Museo del Agua y de la Vida (Water and Life Museum) in nearby Ambato or the Museo del Carmen Alto in Quito, which showcases colonial-era art and artifacts.

Food

Some of the most recommended, popular and typical dishes to eat according to local people in Latacunga, Ecuador include:

1. Chugchucaras: This dish consists of fried pork or beef, accompanied by potatoes, hominy corn, empanadas, and llapingachos (potato patties filled with cheese).

2. Fanesca: A traditional soup made with 12 different types of beans, grains, and vegetables, including pumpkin, corn, and peanuts. It is typically served during Easter week.

3. Hornado: Roasted pork served with potatoes, corn, and a spicy sauce called ají.

4. Caldo de Gallina: A chicken soup with potatoes, corn, and cilantro. It's a perfect meal for cold days.

5. Empanadas de viento: These are crispy, fried empanadas filled with cheese and onion. They are called "de viento" because they are so light that they can easily blow away in the wind.

6. Locro: A hearty potato soup with cheese, avocado, and grilled corn.

7. Mote pillo: Hominy corn mixed with eggs, onions, and spices.

8. Llapingachos: Potato pancakes stuffed with cheese and served with peanut sauce.

These are just a few examples of the delicious dishes you can try while in Latacunga, Ecuador.

Activities

Sure! Here are some fun activities that local people enjoy in Latacunga, Ecuador:

1. Visit the Mercado La Mama Negra: This market is located near the historic center of Latacunga and is a popular spot for locals to shop for fresh produce, street food, and handicrafts.

2. Attend a festival or parade: Latacunga is known for its colorful festivals and parades, including the Mama Negra Festival, which takes place every November. Locals love to dress up in traditional costumes and dance through the streets.

3. Hike the Quilotoa Loop: This scenic trek takes you through the Andes Mountains, passing by small villages and stunning landscapes along the way. It's a popular activity among both locals and tourists.

4. Explore Cotopaxi National Park: Located just outside of Latacunga, this national park is home to the Cotopaxi volcano and offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.

5. Try local cuisine: Latacunga is known for its delicious street food, such as empanadas de viento (fried dough filled with cheese) and churrasco (grilled beef). Locals love to grab a bite to eat from the many food stalls around town.