Otavalo Culture, Lakes, and Market Day Trip

Transfer from Quito city (2:00) and if visitors prefer they can taste the traditional cherimoya fruits, we can stop for a couple of minutes to buy them (price not included).

From this viewpoint we will have a beautiful view of Lake San Pablo. It is located in the province of Imbabura, Ecuador, at an altitude of 2,700 meters above sea level. It has an area of 3.5 x 2.2 km covering around 583 hectares and an approximate depth of 83 m.

Observation of this beautiful lake from the viewpoint and during part of the journey.

A range of textiles and handicrafts can be found in this spectacular market.
Here it is also possible to buy from its inhabitants who, with their traditional clothing, will show their textiles and crafts made by hand and for all the preferences of the visitors. This is one of the largest indigenous markets in the country and in South America.

In this place you will be able to learn more about the elaboration of traditional textiles by hand and with looms (combined technique between hand weaving and with rustic wooden instruments).

Later we will also visit "Ñanda Mañachi" this is a workshop for making musical instruments typical of the communities in this sector.

Visit to the lagoon where you can see its islets.
This is called "Laguna de los Dioses" and is at an altitude of 3,068 meters above sea level, it is part of the Cotacachi-Cayapas Ecological Reserve, which is located between the provinces of Imbabura and Esmeraldas.

It is formed by an old crater at the foot of the Cotacachi Volcano, it is approximately 200 m. deep, in it two islets stand out.

The lagoon is considered sacred, since these waters are the scene of shamanic purification rites. Every year at the time of the summer solstice, purification baths are held on its shores.

In this area you can see animals such as the mountain guinea pig, the wild rabbit, the armadillo, the Andean fox and a large number of birds. On certain privileged occasions you can see the king of the Andes, the Condor, taking a high flight over that spectacular place.
You can also take a boat ride (optional activity and price not included).

Transfer to Quito city (2:30)