Full Day in Otavalo Area Culture and Shopping

Quito , Ecuador

Full Day in Otavalo Area Culture and Shopping

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11h

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About this experience

Enjoy a full-day tour in the Otavalo Area. We will visit the largest indigenous market in Latin America and browse stalls for colorful, artisan souvenirs and delicious flavors. We will visit Lago San Pablo, where you will be able to admire its breathtaking beauty. We will also visit a Bizchochos Artesanal factory, the spectacular Cuicocha lagoon, Cotacachi leather town, and more.

Available options

Full Day in Otavalo Area Culture and Shopping

What's included

Lunch

Bilingual guide Spanish / English.

Authorized tourist transport.

Permits to enter protected areas

Detailed itinerary

From Quito to Otavalo we have 2 hours by direct bus, but in our 1-day tour on a shared basis, we visit 6 different attractions between Quito and Otavalo in one full day. Our trip is along the Pan-American Highway north to get to the Quitsato solar clock, located in the Cayambe canton, named after the snowy mountain present there. This cultural site was built to measure the solstices and equinoxes, in pre-Hispanic times, also considered the "other middle of the world", the equator line crosses this place in the middle of the Cayambe mountain's summit. Its people live from livestock, and agriculture, a sector dedicated to harvesting roses for export.

we have a stop to take a cup of Ecuadorian coffee or chocolate with some Biscochos, which are like a type of small bread made in the oven with an incomparable flavor, and best of all we will enter to see its elaboration process.

Our next site to visit is Otavalo. It is located in the Imbabura province known as the Province of the Lakes, a few minutes from our main destination, we have a viewpoint of the San Pablo lake and in the background the Imbabura hill, to decorate the landscape.

Stop 4

Then we arrive at the biggest and most important indigenous handicraft market in South America, it is possible to visit this market every day of the week. But in our 1-day tour, we coincide the days of the biggest fair where all the artisans meet in La Plaza de los Ponchos, here we have 2 hours of shopping

later we go to Cotacachi. Here we will find another craft market specialized in leather products, as it is a small place we have 45min to see the market and another 45 minutes for lunch in Cotacachi.

Our last place is the Cuicocha Lagoon located at 3068m (10.065.62 ft) in an active volcanic crater with islets or domes and plant observation.

What's not included

Extra food and drinks.

Tips

Snacks

Anything else not mentioned as included

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

All times mentioned are estimated

We can accommodate dietary needs such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc. If you have dietary requirements. Please kindly indicate it to the special requirements at the time of booking.

On Tuesdays we would be back around 5,6 pm and on Saturdays we would be back around 6:30-7pm

Necessary Equipment: Comfortable Clothes, Camera, Sunscreen, Comfortable Shoes, Sunglasses

Travel time is included in the overall duration

Meeting point

Our guide will be waiting for you with our white bus, he will have a list of the passengers going on this trip. we will also provide you with an emergency phone/WhatsApp number. pick up approximately at 7:20 am.

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.