Salinas de Guaranda

An exploration of Salinas de Guaranda, an inspirational indigenous town and shining example of a flourishing community-based economy. Fifty years ago, with the help of a visiting Italian Salesian priest, the people of Salinas opened a cooperative cheese factory to provide a sustainable source of income to local dairy farmers. It was so successful that they created more cooperatives, producing chocolate, dried fruit and mushrooms, essential oils, and woollen garments. Their main brand, Salinerito, now has several stores throughout the country and exports internationally. Profits are reinvested back into the cooperatives and community development initiatives.

Salinas is perched high in the hills above the provincial capital of Guaranda, with a backdrop of fortress-like natural rock formations.