Culture and Customs
Gap Year in Andes Indigenous culture is alive and well throughout the Andes, with ancient craft, produce and animal markets thriving and many popular traditions and festivals – running the gamut from pagan to Catholic – surviving.
While there are many different local specialties – such as chugchucaras in Latacunga and mote pillo in Cuenca –, the cuisine in general tends to be potato and grain-based, with quinoa, corn and hominy playing important roles. Chicken, beef and pork are all consumed, in addition to lowland products such as plantains and yuca (manioc).
Traditional indigenous dress – colorful ponchos and broad-brimmed hats for men and decorated blouses and skirts for women, are everywhere visible in the mountain region, from the largest towns to the smallest farms and hamlets. And the haunting tones of “El Condor Pasa” or other Andean tunes are still often heard being played out on the charango (Andean lute) and pan flute