Otavalo Market, Art and Music with Middle of the World (Sundial)

Two hours of travel from Quito will be enough to reach out Otavalo city. As we drive north, we will take several first-order roads that will allow us to see an Andean scenery with variations due to its climate, altitude and especially its people. We will take several photos and admire the northern part of the well-known "Avenue of the volcanoes". Upon arrival, we will observe some enormous volcanoes which are consider sacred by the native people.

Quitsato's Middle of the World is based on scientific and astronomical concepts. The site of the True Middle of the World. It is an astronomical centre that investigates how ancestors used this knowledge in favor of the crops. Standing out on two hemispheres is just possible in this place. Learn how indigenous people used the mountains to determinate the middle of the world.

From this viewpoint, we observe the San Pablo lagoon. The lagoon is considered the largest one in Ecuador and is located at the foot of the Imbabura Volcano (15,190 feet). Also, it is time to take a break and taste a local biscuit called "biscocho" that will be served along with a leaf cheese and a delicious coffee or tea.

In our eyes, the nice city of Otavalo appears. The majority of the population is indigenous which creates a good and unique atmosphere in this town. When, we are parking, our guide will give us useful guidelines so that we can discover more about the market. The dynamic and millenial market is popular in Ecuador and South America because it houses a wide range of textiles. The sale activity starts very early. A lot of vendors from the city of Otavalo show their works. The products that stand out are alpaca caps, sweaters, sheep caps, gloves, hats, tablecloths, blankets or sheep ponchos. However, you can also find saddlery, silver jewelry or wooden crafts.

The Peguche waterfall is a magical place that will fill you with energy. This place is still a purification center for indigenous people on special dates such as the Sun festival. Besides, the waterfall represent; the origin and end of all things, associated with birth, it acomplishes with the function of dissolving, abolishing, purifying, washing, generating, fertilization, restore. It is the sap of life, contrary to death or dryness. The goddess venus arose from the waters. From the water, we created all living things.

Visit the Ñanda Mañachi; un taller de instrumentos andinos. A local musician will demonstrate how to play the different Andean instruments. The instruments are made in this workshop by José, who was a member of the famous musical group Nanda Mañachi. At the end of the exhibition you will be able to collaborate with the economy of this family by buying their musical instruments (if you wish).