Otavalo Unveiled: A Day Journey Through Time and Tradition!

5.0 (63 reviews) 8–9 hours Free cancellation

out of 5

63 reviews

5.0

Otavalo Unveiled: A Day Journey Through Time and Tradition! — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Otavalo Hello — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

In the heart of South America, nestled just two hours north of Quito, lies the enigmatic town of Otavalo. It's not just any town; it's a pulsating epicenter of culture, art, and nature. Known far and wide for hosting the continent's most expansive Indian handicraft market, Otavalo is more than just a marketplace. It's a tapestry of vibrant colors, intricate woodwork, and masterful weaving.

Beyond the bustling stalls and the hum of barter, Otavalo's soul lies in its breathtaking backdrop. Majestic peaks, serene lakes, and untouched natural reserves cradle this town, while whispers of ancient Indian villages dance in the wind. Otavalo isn't just a destination; it's an experience, a journey into the heart of a land that time forgot.

Day Trips Full-day Tours Bus Tours Private and Luxury Cultural Tours Historical Tours 4WD Tours Small Group

At a glance

Duration: 8–9 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 7 people
People per booking: 1–6
Guide: English, Spanish
Operated by: CarpeDM Adventures

Ages: Adults (16–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: What’s Included:
Included: Professional guide
Included: Lunch
Included: Private Transport

Not included

Not included: What’s Not Included:
Not included: Additional Snacks / Beverages
Not included: TIPS
Not included: Breakfast

Itinerary

Stop 1

15 min

Go FAR Offices / CarpeDM Offices will be the meeting point to start the tour in Quito, Ecuador. Located next to Secret Garden Hostel

7:20 am depart Quito Old Town

7.30 am depart Quito Hilton Colon New Town

9:00 am Bizcochos y Queso de Cayambe

9:30 am San pablo lake

10:15 am Plazas de Ponchos of Otavalo approx. 2hrs.

12:30 am Cotacachi Leather Market with a stop for lunch at typical Ecuadorian Restaurant

2.00 pm Peguche Waterfalls or Cuicocha lake (only one depending on numbers)

2:30 pm return to Quito

6.00 pm back in Quito
Fabrica de Bizcochos San Pedro

20 min

Sample the famous Cheese and Biscuits from Cayambe
San Pablo Del Lago

20 min

San Pablo del Lago is a beautiful Lake. The surrounding mountains and volcano make for some breath-taking scenery. The surrounding area is filled with some amazing lodges, hotels and haciendas. Besides being an incredibly relaxing place to go, there are many recreational activities that can be enjoyed in the area.
Plaza De Los Ponchos Mercado

2 hours

Plaza de los Ponchos, also known as the Centennial Market, is the setting for the largest artisan fair in northern Ecuador. Located in the province of Imbabura in the town of Otavalo.

The activity of the Plaza de Ponchos Ecuador is intended to market handicrafts, both locally, regionally, nationally and even internationally. The textiles of Otavalo are its flag of artisan production, however also offers other types of products made of wood, works of art with ceramics, wood, paint, metal etc..
Cotacachi

30 min

Cotacachi is a small artisan town. Located in the Imbabura province, Ecuador. Cotacachi has amazing hot springs, lush forests, nature reserves, and snowy summits. Cotacachi's main production is leather goods. In the center of the town, there are dozens of shops with good quality leather products such as jackets, pants, belts, wallets, shoes, bags and more..
Cuicocha Lake

45 min

Cuicocha's famous lake rests inside a 3 km (2 mi) wide caldera that resulted from a massive explosion that occurred approximately 3,100 years ago. The volcano has been dormant ever since, but the volcanic ash that scattered as a result of that old eruption turned the area into one known for its nutrient-rich soils.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

Right Next to Secret Garden Hostel - If you are staying in the New Town Mariscal, we also have a meeting point at Hilton Colon - 7.30am at 7.45am - just let us know upon booking which you prefer.

End point

Right Next to Secret Garden Hostel - If you are staying in the New Town Mariscal, we also have a meeting point at Hilton Colon - 7.30am at 7.45am - just let us know upon booking which you prefer.