Imbabura

Province in northern Ecuador; area 5,469 sq km/2,112 sq mi; population (1996) 312,420. The capital is Ibarra. Stock-raising is the main activity, and cereals, potatoes, and vegetables are the chief crops grown. Woollen handicraft weaving is also an important occupation. A notable feature of the province is the cloud-capped Imbabura volcano, which stands at 4,630 m/15,190 ft.

Imbabura province is sometimes referred to as the ‘Lake District of Ecuador’ on account of its crater lakes, fertile valleys, and semi-tropical climate.