Otavalo Marketplace and Cotacachi Town from Quito
Active
7h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
A full-day trip from Quito to Otavalo city, passing through some of the most important towns in the northern Ecuadorian sierra. Witness the most beautiful landscapes of the highlands and have a taste of its delicacies on the way to Otavalo. Take some time to shop in the market (only on Saturdays) and then head to Cotacachi valley. Includes lunch.
Available options
Thursday &Saturday Departures
Tuesday & Saturday Departures: Thursday & Sundays departures are open and you will join a group (12 travellers max). Tour price will be less.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Transportation Quito - Otavalo - Quito * - Tuesday & Saturdays departures: (Meeting Point - La Mariscal) | Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun departures (your hotel in Quito - Hotels within the urban perimeter ONLY)
Lunch
Bilingual Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
The trip starts early in the morning driving north of Quito towards one of the most famous indigenous market in Ecuador: Otavalo. The first stop en-route will be at Calderon, a small town famous for “Mazapan” handicrafts. Following, you will stop at Cayambe, also famous for its salt biscuits with “leaf cheese” and “manjar”, delicacy you can have a small taste of if you’d like to make stop. Next stop will be a view point to enjoy the landscape of Imbabura volcano (4610 mts.) and San Pablo lagoon.
2
Afterwards, we will enter Otavalo, that holds an Indian Market every Saturday, an ancient tradition and cultural exchange site among the Otavalo community. You my do some shopping in the market, from handicrafts to artisanal made clothing, or you may witness and photograph the site.
We will then continue towards the peaceful Cotacachi Village, famous for its leather and meet the local craftsmen. We will head back to Quito in the late afternoon.
Note: Otavalo holds the local market on Saturdays only. There are usually some exchange activities on Tuesdays, but it depends on the Otavalo villagers.
* IMPORTANT NOTE:
For Tuesday & Saturdays departures (open departures), meet wtih your guide and fellow travellers at 6:45am at the centrally located meeting point at Mariscal Barrio at 6:45am.
For Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun departures, the guide will pick you up at the your hotel in Quito around 8:00 - 9:00am (time will be confirmed on your service voucher).
What's not included
Additional Entrances fee
Items not mentioned on the itinerary
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.0
1 reviews
5★
0
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
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2★
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1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
Meeting point
Departure Point: Tuesday & Saturdays: (Meeting Point)
Barrio Mariscal in Quito - Ecuador (Magic Bean Restaurant or Q Restaurant, both located at Barrio Mariscal at Mariscal Foch y Juan León Mera).
At the final confirmation we send the exact meeting point.
Important notes
Local supplier telephone number: 845 345 3204
Emergency ONLY phone number (local): (593) 992747880
Note: Otavalo holds the local market on Saturdays only. There are usually some exchange activities on Tuesdays, but it depends on the Otavalo villagers.
Note 2: This day tour is subject to availability and last minute changes due to forces beyond our control (Force Majeure). In this case, no refunds are possible. This is not a private tour - travelers will share the services with a group of fellow travelers (max of 12 travelers per group)
NOTE (IMPORTANT): The following info from each traveler is a compulsory requirement in order to be included in the supplier’s insurance. Please provide this information as soon as possible (before travel date).
Names (as they appear on the passport):
Passport Number:
Date of Birth:
Emergency Phone Number:
* If travelers fail to provide this information two days prior to date of travel, the health insurance cannot NOT be applied.
NOTE (travel insurance age restriction): Travel insurance for this tour is applicable to travelers up to 69 years old ONLY. We encourage travelers of more the 69 years to hire private travel insurance, as unfortunately, they will not be covered with ours.
INCLUDES:
• Bilingual Professional Guide
• Transportation from Quito and back (at meeting point in Mariscal Restaurant)
• Lunch
NOT INCLUDED
• Other Meals
• Cost of extra activities such as horseback riding or kayaks in the Lagoon
• Tips & gratuities (optional)
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
