Solamaco Mountains

The Solamaco Mountains lie in the southern Ecuadorian Andes, in the country associated with the Cañari. High ridges and valleys created distinct environments within short distances, and communities obtained varied crops and materials through exchange. Cultivation filled suitable slopes and sheltered ground, while higher land and woodland gave other resources. Mountain paths linked settlements, and local knowledge of weather, water and crossings made travel possible. The Ingapirca complex in the Cañar region shows how Cañari and Inca societies shared these mountain roads.