Otavalo Market and Laguna Cuicocha Full-Day Tour from Quito

Quito , Ecuador

Otavalo Market and Laguna Cuicocha Full-Day Tour from Quito

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About this experience

The Otavalo cultural tour is a wonderful way to discover and combine the famous artisan indigenous market in Ecuador with some of the most amazing views nearby the capital.

Wander around one of the most famous indigenous markets of South America, walk on the Equator Line, taste delicious bizcochos, hike around the beautiful Cuicocha Laguna, visit the Cotacachi leather-town and savour a local lunch - the perfect mix of culture, nature, history, and gastronomy.

Available options

Otavalo Market and Laguna Cuicocha Full-Day Tour from Quito

What's included

Professional and Bilingual Guide

Lunch & Bizcochos tasting

Transportation from/to Quito's meeting point

Detailed itinerary

NOTE: THIS IS NOT THE MAIN MONUMENT

Entrance fee to the small Equator monument - $2 per person

The Quitsato Sundial is a cultural-tourist place located at La Mitad Del Mundo, near Cayambe, 47 km north of Quito. It was built in 2006 and inaugurated in 2007 as an independent, non-profit project in a 24,756 ft² (2300 m²) area. Its main goal is to share crucial aspects of the astronomical knowledge of the prehispanic cultures of the region. The expositions are carried out by community members as a self-sustaining project. According to Google Maps, the central pillar is 4 meters south of the true equator.

After this very interesting visit, we will head to a traditional bizcochos factory. You will learn everything about the traditional biscuits of the Cayambe region and, of course, taste those delights!

We will stop at the viewing point “Mira Lago” where it is possible to see Cayambe, Imbabura, San Pablo Lake, Tabacundo and flower farms.

Stop 3

You will have time to explore the famous indigenous market, exchange with the friendly sellers, and do some shopping.

Visit the town of Cotacachi, declared as "Magic Village of Ecuador" because of its cultural richness. Indeed, Cotacachi is know as the " leather town", which makes it the perfect place for you to buy some locally-made leather pieces.

There, we will also enjoy a delicious lunch in a local and charming restaurant.

Here, you will have time for a small walk around the Laguna. Enjoy the magnificent landscapes and the views of the nearby volcanoes!

Stop 6 Pass by

Return to Quito and drop off at your original meeting point.

What's not included

Market Purchases

Quitsato Entrance Fee (Equator Line) $2 per person

Tips

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

22 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.8

16 reviews

5★

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Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The tour operator reserves the right to change the itinerary without previous notice due to weather, National Park regulations or notifications and unforeseeable circumstances

Necessary equipment: Warm clothes, gloves, hat. Sunglasses & Sunscreen. Water, snacks. Hiking shoes. Camera and Waterproof jacket. Cash.

Meeting point

6:50 am - Depart from Plaza Foch (Mariscal Foch and Reina Victoria) - look for the tour bus.

Important notes

The tour operator reserves the right to change the itinerary without previous notice due to weather, National Park regulations or notifications and unforeseeable circumstances.

Necessary equipment:
• Warm clothes, gloves, hat
• Sunglasses & Sunscreen
• Water, snacks
• Hiking shoes
• Camera
• Waterproof jacketFor questions contact Ecuatraveling Staff

Mobile: Pablo +593 987053367 or Esteban +593 980314882

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.