The dormant stratovolcano that watches over Otavalo from the north, Imbabura rises to 4,630 metres and is visible from almost everywhere in the valley. The Kichwa people call it Taita Imbabura — Father Imbabura — and consider it a protective deity. The standard ascent begins from the village of La Esperanza near Ibarra and takes around six hours return; no technical equipment is needed, but the altitude demands a slow pace. On clear days the summit offers views across the whole Imbabura province.