Most indigenous groups are concentrated north of Quito and in the central mountainous region, though there are diverse groups spread throughout the country. Indigenous towns or villages are referred to as comunidades (communities), and many are governed by groups of taytas and mamas, or elders who host town-hall style meetings to make important decisions for their residents.
What kind of clothes do indigenous people wear?
In the Chimborazo province, many men wear ponchos to keep warm in the chilly mountain temperatures, long pants and a Panama hat (these popular hats are actually from Ecuador, not the Central American country in their name!). Women wear elaborate beaded necklaces and earrings, embroidered blouses and long skirts called anacos. They keep warm with shawls secured around their shoulders with large pins.
What foods are common in Indigenous cultures?
In central Ecuador, where I am living, one of the main delicacies is cuy, or guinea pig! In rural areas, many people raise cuy outside and even let them roam within their homes. Cuy are generally roasted and served with potatoes and corn. I am personally vegetarian and have never tried cuy, but it is said to taste like a cross between duck and rabbit. Other popular foods include habas (thick grains which are boiled or toasted), roasted pork, chicken soups, chicha (a fermented corn beverage), white homemade cheeses and local fruits like apples and berries.
