Otavalo Tour

10 Hours

Otavalo Tour

Otavalo and Cotacachi are two small towns located in the northern highlands of Ecuador, about two hours north of Quito. They are both well-known for their rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and unique artisan crafts. Here are some reasons why visiting Otavalo, its market, and Cotacachi is such a special experience:

  • Otavalo Market: The Otavalo Market is one of the largest and most famous indigenous markets in South America. It is held every Saturday in the town’s central plaza and offers a colorful array of handmade textiles, clothing, jewelry, ceramics, and other artisan crafts. The market is a lively and bustling place, where locals and tourists alike come to shop, socialize, and experience the vibrant culture of the Andean region.

  • Indigenous culture: Otavalo and Cotacachi are home to several indigenous communities, including the Otavaleños and the Kichwa people. These communities have a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in their clothing, customs, and way of life. Visitors to the area have the opportunity to learn about these cultures firsthand, through interactions with locals, visits to cultural centers, and participation in traditional ceremonies.

  • Natural beauty: The northern highlands of Ecuador are known for their stunning landscapes, which include towering volcanoes, lush forests, and crystal-clear lakes. The area around Otavalo and Cotacachi is particularly beautiful, with panoramic views of the Andean mountains and fertile valleys. Visitors can go hiking, horseback riding, or take a leisurely stroll through the countryside, soaking up the fresh air and peaceful ambiance.

  • Artisan crafts: The towns of Otavalo and Cotacachi are renowned for their artisan crafts, which include handwoven textiles, leather goods, and pottery. Visitors can watch artisans at work, learn about traditional techniques, and purchase high-quality, one-of-a-kind souvenirs to take home.

Cost: 

$65 per person

Min 3 Passengers

Overview

Exploring Otavalo and Cotacachi was a perfect day trip from Quito. The colorful market, breathtaking Peguche waterfall, and leather goods in Cotacachi make for an unforgettable experience.

Itinerary

7:00 AM: Depart from Quito to Otavalo

Take a bus or private transportation from Quito to Otavalo, which is about 2 hours north of Quito.
9:00 AM: Arrive in Otavalo and explore the market

Once you arrive in Otavalo, head straight to the market to explore the various vendors selling textiles, crafts, and other souvenirs. The market is located in the Plaza de Ponchos, which is open every day but is busiest on Saturdays.
11:00 AM: Visit the Peguche waterfall

After exploring the market, take a short drive to the Peguche waterfall, which is about 10 minutes away from Otavalo. The waterfall is located in a beautiful natural area and is surrounded by lush greenery.
12:00 PM: Lunch in Otavalo

Head back to Otavalo for lunch and try some of the local cuisine, such as cuy (guinea pig) or hornado (roasted pork).
1:00 PM: Visit Cotacachi

After lunch, take a short drive to Cotacachi, which is known for its leather goods. Explore the town's main street, which is lined with shops selling everything from belts to jackets to bags.
3:00 PM: Return to Quito

After exploring Cotacachi, head back to Quito. It should take about 2 hours to drive back, depending on traffic.
5:00 PM: Arrive in Quito

Once you arrive back in Quito, you can relax and reflect on your day trip to Otavalo, the market, Peguche waterfall, and Cotacachi.

$65 per person

What´s Included

  • Professional Driver
  • Door to Door pick up and Drop Off

What´s not included

  • Meals
  • Entrance to local attractions : Peguche $1

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Otavalo Tour