Ethnic Groups
Among the many indigenous groups in Ecuador, the distribution of the major
groups is as follows: (1) Otavalos, Chibuleos, Salasacas, Cachas, Tiquizambis,
Cañaris, Saraguros and others who use the generic Quichua name throughout the highlands;
(2) Cayapas and Tzachilas on the north and north central coast respectively; and (3) Huaorani,
Shuar, Achuar, Cofanes, Siona-Secoya, Záparos, Canelos and Quichua of the jungle in the Amazon
region.
Each of the above-mentioned groups has its own customs and clearly defined culture. As a general
rule, all indigenous groups from the highlands and the Quichua from the jungle speak Quichua.
All the others have their own languages.
Another important ethnic group in the country is the Afro-Ecuadorian. The Black population
arrived in this country through various migrating flows from Colombia and the Caribbean, settling
in many parts of the country. Many of the Black population currently settled in El Chota valley are
descendants of slaves who labored in haciendas owned by the Jesuits.
The Black population today is spread throughout the Ecuadorian coast, with a higher percentage
in the province of Esmeraldas, and in the highland valley of El Chota. Their Spanish is rich
in nuances, and their cultural African roots can be seen in their music, dance and festivities.
