Full Day -Trip To Otavalo and surroundings Private

Quito , Ecuador

Full Day -Trip To Otavalo and surroundings Private

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(1 reviews)

6h - 8h

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

During this day you will have a tour of culture, customs and traditions. Beginning in the morning with a visit to the beautiful “Laguna de San Pablo”, then you go to the famous market of ponchos in Otavalo, where you can observe and buy a beautiful handmade fabrics, scarves, ponchos, wallets, coats, etc. Later we will visit the Cuicocha lagoon and the town of Cotacachi, famous for its leather products, like shoes, wallets, belts, etc. In the afternoon you return to Quito with a stop to taste the rich bizcochos of Cayambe.

Otavalo is located 02h30 min from the city, it is recommended to take, warm and comfortable clothes, glasses, sunscreen.

Available options

FULL DAY TOUR OTAVALO-CUICOCHA

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Air-conditioned vehicle

English Driver/guide

Transport by private vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

his market is located in the well-known "Plaza de los Ponchos". An amazing labyrinth of colorful fabrics and clothes is scattered from there by a large number of streets surrounding the Plaza every Saturday

It is the musical capital of Imbabura. Cotacachi is also an emporium of culture and tradition. Visit the Museum of Cultures, the mother church of Santa Ana de Cotacachi. Skillful craftsmen make leather goods, marking the trend and styles in leather fashion in the country.

The Cuicocha Lagoon, at an altitude of 3,200 meters above sea level and with an amplitude of 3 km located inside the national park. It has two islets inside the lagoon, the largest is called Theodore Wolf and the little one is called Yerovi. They should be called Cotacachi.

Between the two islets is a channel "De los reyes", a few meters away is the cave where "The Virgins of the Sun" visited on special dates to perform Rites to the Incas, filled with the energetic benefits of the lagoon, as the Gods who visited the planet bathed here; as well as asking for the abundant harvests.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Lunch

Tips

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Public transportation options are available nearby

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Meeting point

Please inform me of the directions or the place where you need to pick up you.

Important notes

All flight times are approximate and subject to change due to weather conditions and weight restrictions.

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.