Tour Full-Day Mercado de Otavalo + Cotacachi, Ecuador.
Active
6h - 8h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
The Tour Operator Enjoy Ecuador takes you to the city of Otavalo and Cotacachi, located in the Province of Imbabura, 1 hour 30 minutes from Quito.
We will stop in the city of Cayambe where we will have a traditional tasting of biscuits, leaf cheese, and dulce de leche.
Once in Otavalo we will visit the famous ponchos square, where you will be able to live close the day to day of Otavaleño merchants, you will have time to make purchases of the great variety of handicrafts that this place has to offer such as traditional ponchos, scarves, wood sculptures, paintings, traditional Otavalo pants, alpargatas (traditional footwear), etc.
We will visit a craft workshop on Andean musical instruments.
We will have the opportunity to visit the Cuicocha Lagoon, where you will be able to take pictures of this amazing attraction.
To finish, we will have time for lunch in Cotacachi and return to Quito.
Available options
Tour Full-Day Mercado de Otavalo + Cotacachi, Ecuador.
Pickup included
What's included
Tasting in Cayambe
Detailed itinerary
1
In this cozy restaurant we will have our first stop, where we will taste a traditional breakfast from the Cayambe city, consisting of coffee, biscuits, dulce de leche and leaf cheese.
We will be able to observe the elaboration and baking of the cayambe biscuits.
2
We will make a brief visit to the Miralago viewpoint, where you will have the opportunity to take pictures of the Imbabura volcano and San Pablo Lake.
In this place you can find a craft store that you can visit.
3
Stop 3
We will visit the ¨ponchos square¨, a place known for its handicrafts, you can find a wide variety of products such as: ponchos, t-shirts, alpargatas (traditional footwear), pants, scarves and everything you can imagine in clothing.
The Otavaleños are great artisans, which is why you will find a great variety of crafts made of wood, leather, metal, etc.
Experience first hand the day to day of one of the ¨magical towns¨ of Ecuador.
4
The people of Otavalo are also great musicians, so we will visit an Andean instrument workshop, where we can learn about the making of the instruments and also enjoy some Ecuadorian music.
5
The province of Imbabura is known as the province of the lakes since it has so many.
We will visit the Cuicocha lagoon, a lagoon that originated in the crater of a volcano, we will take a small and easy walk, where we can take pictures of one of the most beautiful attractions in Ecuador.
6
To end our tour we will visit one of the most beautiful cities in Ecuador called Cotacachi.
A famous place for its work with leather, they make handbags, footwear, jackets, etc.
In Cotacachi you will have free time for lunch.
Our last point of visit will be a chocolate shop, to taste the delicious Ecuadorian chocolate.
What's not included
Food and drinks not specified in the itinerary.
Tips
Entrances not specified in the itinerary
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Important notes
At the moment of the pick-up show your ticket to your guide.
Our guides have a shirt with the logo from the Tour Operator Enjoy Ecuador.
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
