Latacunga is a plateau town of Ecuador, capital of the Cotopaxi Province, 89 km south of Quito. The population of Latacunga is largely mestizo and indigenous. The active volcano, Cotopaxi, is only a short distance away and the town has suffered repeatedly from eruptions.

History and Culture
Founded in 1534, it was destroyed four times by earthquakes between 1698 and 1798. The presence of volcanic activity has led to the accumulation of pumice deposits which are currently mined, as well as the presence of natural sparkling water, which is bottled under the brand name San Felipe. The neighbouring ruins of an older native town are said to date from the Incas.

Tourist Offices
There is a tourist information kiosk at the bus terminal, which is open from 8am - 6pm.

Sightseeing
The three plazas around the Echevería/Amazonas junction are a hive of activity, with markets every day. The biggest and best markets are on Tuesdays and Saturdays though. If you're around in September then you might be lucky enough to catch the celebrations of the Fiesta de la Mamá Negra. The festivities involve costumes, processions, music , dancing and fireworks, helped along with lots of food and drink.

Getting there
There are regular buses from Quito and the buses from Ambato and Riobamba, heading to Quito can drop you off here too.