Private Otavalo and Cotacachi Day Trip from Quito

Quito , Ecuador

Private Otavalo and Cotacachi Day Trip from Quito

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About this experience

Otavalo is home to an ancestral indigenous handicrafts market where you will be amazed by the variety of colorful handicrafts. The beautiful scenery and friendly people will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
At the "Plaza de Ponchos" market you will find artisans of leather, wood, fabric, embroidery, marzipan art and jewelry that will make you wish you had brought an extra bag for when you return home.
Take some time to interact with the vendors and live as part of the culture of one of the oldest and most emblematic civilizations of Ecuador and the Andean region.

Available options

Private Otavalo and Cotacachi Day Trip from Quito

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Professional bilingual guide

Tasting of biscuits and leaf cheese in Cayambe

Hotel/port pickup and drop-off

Detailed itinerary

Our guide will pick you up at your hotel early in the morning and we will head north until we reach the town of Cayambe, known for its "bizcochos", a type of baked bread rolls that are accompanied by the so-called "Queso de hoja" (leaf cheese) because it is wrapped in leaves to preserve them.

Stop 2

We continue our journey to the Otavalo Market, where you can see all kinds of handicrafts made by the skilled hands of the indigenous people of the area. Famous for owning one of the largest indigenous fairs in Latin America, where their skilled artisans expose all their handicrafts and fabrics recognized worldwide.

We continue until we reach the musical workshop where we will listen to Andean music that comes out of the instruments that the natives skillfully create with their hands, our tour progresses until we reach Cotacachi a small and picturesque town famous for its leather creations, here our guide will suggest and give the necessary time for lunch (not included).

Later we will visit the Cotacachi Cayapas Ecological Reserve where the Cuicocha Lagoon is located, which originated after a volcanic explosion thousands of years ago.
After this visit, we will return to the city of Quito.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Gratuities

Entrance fees

The program does not include anything not specified

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

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Tripadvisor 3.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

May be operated by a multilingual guide

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Rate of the adult, should be applied to the children

Wear sunsblock, wear comfortable shoes for walking, bring a camera

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Important notes

Hotel pickups commence prior to this 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.