Full-Day Private Tour of Artisans North of Quito
Active
8h - 10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
A tour focused on visiting three towns with their markets located north from Quito city. Each one of these locations are different from each other in terms of markets and artisans. Otavalo with the biggest textile market in South America, Peguche with the traditional weavers that work the textile by hand and Cotacachi with its leather market. This is a full day enjoying the northern landscapes and learning the culture of the region.
Available options
OTAVALO, PEGUCHE, COTACACHI
Tour of textile and leather markets lunch and entrances included. Visit the traditional weavers in Peguche, the biggest textile market in Otavalo and Leather shops in Cotacachi<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Private tour
Professional guide
Bottled water
Driver/guide
Lunch
All activities
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
A tour focused on visiting three towns with their markets located north from Quito city. Each one of these locations are different from each other in terms of markets and artisans. Otavalo with its textile market, Cotacachi with its leather market and San Antonio with the wood carvers. This is a full day enjoying the northern landscapes and learning the culture of the region.
Our tour starts in the morning with the pick up at your hotel. We will drive out of Quito to our first stop in Otavalo and “Plaza de Ponchos” where you will have time to walk around and do some shopping of textiles and handicrafts. The locals will always give you a higher price so don’t forget to bargain with them, it is part of the experience. Otavalo is consider one of the most famous indigenous markets in the world and the biggest in South America. A market full of color and life.
2
After a prudent time in the market for shopping or just to wander around, we will continue to Cotachi town and the leather artisans. In here you will enjoy of some of the best leather products on a really good price. We will have lunch and finally we will visit the wood carvers’ artisans in San Antonio Town. In the town you will find families that have been dedicated to the art of carving wood for more than 3 generations.
What's not included
Drinks
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
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Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
A minimum of 02 people per booking is required
Important notes
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Each traveler is allowed a maximum of 1 carry-on bag.
Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.
About Quito
Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is a vibrant city nestled in the Andean highlands. It is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, rich cultural heritage, and stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern urban life.
Top Attractions
Historic Center of Quito
The Historic Center of Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring well-preserved colonial architecture, churches, and plazas.
Historical
Half to full day
Free to visit the plazas and streets; entry fees for churches and museums
TelefériQo
A cable car that takes visitors to the top of Cruz Loma for breathtaking views of Quito and the surrounding volcanoes.
Adventure
1-2 hours
Moderate
Mitad del Mundo
A monument marking the equator, where you can stand in both the northern and southern hemispheres at once.
Historical
Half day
Moderate
Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve
A unique crater reserve with hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and a chance to see local flora and fauna.
Nature
Half to full day
Budget
Basílica del Voto Nacional
One of the largest neo-Gothic basilicas in South America, offering stunning architecture and panoramic views from its towers.
Religious
1-2 hours
Budget
Capilla del Hombre
A museum dedicated to the works of Ecuadorian artist Oswaldo Guayasamín, featuring his paintings and sculptures.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Llocro de Papa
A hearty potato soup with cheese, avocado, and sometimes meat.
Dinner
Vegetarian options available
Cuy Asado
Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish.
Dinner
Contains meat
Encebollado
A fish soup with yuca, onions, and tomatoes, often served with pickled onions.
Lunch
Contains fish
Empanadas de Viento
Fried empanadas filled with cheese and sometimes meat, dusted with sugar.
Snack
Vegetarian options available
Popular Activities
Hiking in Cotopaxi National Park
Zip-lining in Mindo Cloud Forest
Paragliding over Quito
Soaking in Papallacta Hot Springs
Visiting La Ronda Street for live music and performances
Exploring the Historic Center at a leisurely pace
Visiting museums and cultural attractions in the Historic Center
Exploring local markets and shopping areas
Best Time to Visit
June to September
This is the dry season with clear skies and pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F)
54°F to 68°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
GMT-5
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Quito is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of pickpocketing, scams, and unsafe taxis. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
- • Use official taxis or app-based services for safer transportation.
- • Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas.
Getting there
By air
- Mariscal Sucre International Airport • 18 km (11 miles) from city center
By bus
Quito Bus Terminal (Ofelia)
Getting around
Public transport
Quito has a well-developed bus system, including the Trolebús and Ecovía, which are affordable and efficient.
Taxis
Available • Apps: InDriver, TaxiApp
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Historic Center (Centro Histórico)
La Floresta
González Suárez
El Panecillo
Day trips
Cotopaxi National Park
50 km (31 miles) south of Quito • Full day
A stunning national park featuring the Cotopaxi volcano, hiking trails, and wildlife.
Mindo Cloud Forest
80 km (50 miles) northwest of Quito • Full day
A lush cloud forest with hiking trails, waterfalls, and a variety of wildlife.
Papallacta Hot Springs
65 km (40 miles) northeast of Quito • Half to full day
Natural hot springs nestled in the Andes, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
Festivals
Fiestas de Quito • Early December
Inti Raymi • June 21-24
Semana Santa • March or April (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Visit the Historic Center early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
- Try local street food and snacks, such as empanadas, hornado, and choclo con queso.
- Use the Metrocable for a unique and scenic way to reach the historic center and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
- Be cautious of altitude sickness, as Quito's high elevation can cause headaches, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Drink plenty of water, take it easy, and allow time to acclimate.
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
