Private Full Day Tour of the Indigenous Culture of Ecuador
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Private Full Day Tour of the Indigenous Culture of Ecuador

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(1 reviews)
7h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Knowing the true land of Coraza and the traditional way of life of the indigenous people is possible, in this tour through unique, magical and exclusive places you will know and live closely the tradition and culture of the indigenous peoples, their culture and traditions.

Available options

Private Full Day Tour of the Indigenous Culture of Ecuador

What's included

Private transportation
Lunch

Detailed itinerary

1

GALLERY AND BOTANICAL GARDEN "El duende del Arte", in this beautiful place you will be able to appreciate realistic paintings typical of the sector in the middle of a dream botanical garden, we will be all the time between Art and Botany.

2

"CORAZA" MUSEUM, El Coraza is a character who presides over the most important celebrations of the Kichwa Otavalo people, his clothing is colorful, full of lace, sequins, bells, gold, etc. In this Museum you will live the experience of dressing with the replica of this clothing and the explanation of this traditional festival of San Rafael de la Laguna.

3

Handicrafts and Treatment of TOTORA, the "Totora" is the aquatic plant typical of the area with which from the hands of the natives they become crafts and supplies for the home, this is a trade with which generations of generations of indigenous people have dedicated their life to this activity based on its economy, in Totora Wasi we will find: furniture, mats, lamps and other handicrafts made with this ecological material.

4

SPORT FISHING FOR TROUT, we will fish for trout from ecological pools, near Lake San Pablo, in the heart of the indigenous community of Huayco Pungo, this fishing will later be part of lunch.

5

We will return to the Balcón del Lago Cabins, to have lunch in their restaurant with a panoramic view, in this place their products are 100% organic, grown by people from the sector.

6

In this Cultural and Archaeological Center we will find Inca monoliths (Inca Stones) that date back more than 500 years, these are typical of the place.

7

POLYLEPIS ENDEMIC FOREST, We will arrive at this forest, which is considered one of the few of its kind in the country, currently it is sought to be considered a protected reserve since several species of birds nest in this forest, inside a house has been created 100% ecological, which works with solar panels, in this place we will also get to know the indigenous cuisine called "Tulpa", we will pause to take photos from a viewpoint.

8

We will arrive at the Cachiviro Dock where we will embark to sail on the LARGEST LAKE IN ECUADOR, San Pablo Lake, on this tour we will be able to observe native birds of the lake such as: endemic ducks, herons and seagulls.

9

BICENTENNIAL HOUSE Aromas del Lago, in this house where today there is a traditional cafeteria, we can enjoy a delicatessen of our choice prepared by the hostess of the place.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide
EN ES

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Service animals allowed
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The meeting point begins at the reception of Cabañas Balcón del Lago.

About Otavalo

Otavalo is a picturesque town in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador, renowned for its vibrant indigenous culture and famous Saturday market. The town offers a unique blend of traditional craftsmanship, stunning natural landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic South American experience.

Top Attractions

Otavalo Market

The Otavalo Market is one of the largest and most famous indigenous markets in South America. It offers a vast array of handmade crafts, textiles, jewelry, and traditional clothing.

Market/Cultural Half day to full day Free to enter, bargaining expected for purchases

Peguche Waterfall

A stunning waterfall located just outside Otavalo, surrounded by lush vegetation and offering a serene escape from the bustling market.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Cuicocha Crater Lake

A picturesque crater lake formed by an ancient volcanic eruption, offering hiking trails and boat tours.

Nature/Adventure Half day to full day Moderate (boat tour fees apply)

La Laguna de San Pablo

A beautiful lagoon surrounded by rolling hills and farmland, perfect for picnics and relaxation.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Llapingachos

Potato pancakes stuffed with cheese and served with peanut sauce, avocado, and fried pork rind.

Main Course Vegetarian option available (without pork rind)

Cuy Asado

Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish.

Main Course Not suitable for vegetarians or those averse to exotic meats

Locro de Papa

A hearty potato and cheese soup, often served with avocado and fried egg.

Soup Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountain biking Horseback riding Picnicking Birdwatching Coffee shop visits Market shopping Traditional craft workshops

Best Time to Visit

June to September

This is the dry season, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the market. The Saturday market is particularly bustling during this period.

12-20°C 54-68°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Spanish
  • Widely spoken: Kichwa (indigenous language)
  • English: Limited

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Otavalo is generally safe for travelers, but common sense and basic precautions should be taken to avoid petty theft and scams.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure
  • • Use reputable tour operators
  • • Be cautious with strangers offering services

Getting there

By air
  • Cotopaxi International Airport • 80 km (50 miles)
By bus

Quito Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Local buses are the most common and affordable way to get around Otavalo. They connect the town center with nearby attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: InDriver, Uber (limited availability)

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Town Center Peguche

Day trips

Imbabura Volcano
15 km (9 miles) • Full day

A stunning volcano offering hiking trails and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Cotacachi
20 km (12 miles) • Half day to full day

A charming town known for its leather goods and traditional crafts.

Lago de San Pablo
5 km (3 miles) • Half day

A beautiful lagoon surrounded by rolling hills and farmland, perfect for picnics and relaxation.

Festivals

Peguche Festival • February 1-3 Inti Raymi • June 24

Pro tips

  • Visit the market early on Saturday to avoid crowds and get the best selection.
  • Try traditional dishes like llapingachos and cuy asado for an authentic culinary experience.
  • Hike to the Peguche Waterfall for a peaceful and scenic escape from the bustling market.
  • Explore the surrounding countryside by bike or horseback for a unique perspective on the landscape.
  • Learn a few basic phrases in Spanish or Kichwa to connect with the local culture and people.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 18-65
1
Childs
Age 3-12
0
Infants
Age 1-2
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 11
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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