Otavalo Indigenous Market Trip | 1 Day | from QUITO, ECUADOR
Vendor at Otavalo market.
Girl with handmade mask
Otavalo Lagoon deck
Small child at Otavalo market
Stalls at Otavalo market
Girl walks through Otavalo
Girls sit at Otavalo Lagoon
Handmade goods
Otavalo Indigenous Market Trip | 1 Day | from QUITO, ECUADOR
Vendor at Otavalo market.
Girl with handmade mask
Otavalo Lagoon deck
Small child at Otavalo market
Stalls at Otavalo market
Girl walks through Otavalo
Girls sit at Otavalo Lagoon
Handmade goods

Otavalo Indigenous Market Trip | 1 Day | from QUITO, ECUADOR

Country & Activity: | Where: |

$50.00

  • Explore the Otavalo artisanal market, Ecuador’s largest market! 
  • Spend time with the talented craftspeople.
  • Take in the stunning views of the Cuicocha Lagoon.
  • Learn about traditional craft techniques.
  • This is a must- do activity in Ecuador!

  • Save your place with a small deposit today. Pay the rest later.
  • Deposit 100% refundable until 48h before your start date.
  • Safe Checkout Secured by Stripe

Grab some beautiful handicrafts at the Otavalo Market!

Ecuador’s most famous artisanal market is a must-see for travellers heading to Ecuador. A trip to the market is an unforgettable experience for backpackers, allowing you to learn about the traditional methods used to make handicrafts and also to meet the talented craftspeople responsible for the goods you see on the stalls. The market is one of the continent’s largest and a full day trip from Quito takes all the hassle out of planning your visit. Don’t miss this tour!

Otavalo Market Itinerary:

Tour runs on Tuesdays and Saturdays. 

Your tour will commence at around 7 am from the New Town of Quito or 7.15 am in the Old Town.

You will head towards Cayambe town to taste Bizcochos, a type of cookie which originates in Ecuador. See how these biscuits are made in a wood-fired oven and of course, don’t forget to pair them with dulce de leche when you try them! From there, you will be taken to “The Middle of the World”, Quitsato Solar Clock.

There will also be a stop at a viewpoint en route where you can take in the sights of the San Pablo Lake and the Imbabura volcano which clocks in at a whopping 4610 metres! 

Once you arrive at the Otavalo market, there will be time for shopping and taking photos. Here you can meet the craftspeople and take in the sights, sounds and smells of the famous market. There are hundreds of stalls in the market and it is split into sections which include an animal area, craft area and grocery area. This is a great place for backpackers to visit if they are planning on cooking in their hostel! 

Otavalo is a great place to buy a whole manner of souvenirs from Ecuador. At the market, you will find ponchos, tapestries, scarves and sweaters to name a few!  

After your visit to the market, there will be a stop for lunch (included in the price of the trip) before you head to Cotacachi town for a visit. After this stop, you will depart for the Cuicocha Lagoon. Here there is the opportunity to take part in an optional boat ride. Guests wanting to take in the sights from dry ground can use the allotted time to explore and enjoy the vibrant landscape. 

You will arrive back in Quito at around 6.30 pm. 

Refund Policy

  • In order to book this experience, you will need to pay a deposit.
  • This depòsit is fully refundable up until 48 hours before the start of the activity.
  • If you are unable to agree on a date or the organiser cannot meet your requirements, your deposit is automatically returned to you in full.
  • There is no refund for cancellations made fewer than 48 hours before the start of the activity.
  • The rest of the payment for the experience is payable to the organiser, either upon arrival at the destination or before in some cases, if the organiser requires it. The organiser will arrange this with you.
  • The refund of the second payment, which goes directly to the trip organiser, is entirely based on the organiser’s own Terms and Conditions.
  • Please read our customer Terms and Conditions for more information.

FAQ

Where is Otavalo market?

Otavalo market is located around two hours north of Quito.

What should I bring?

  • Jacket
  • Water
  • Suncream
  • Sunglasses
  • Comfortable shoes for walking
  • Money for souvenirs

Is this market safe from pickpockets?

Otavalo market is a major tourist attraction and it can get crowded there. Although it is generally a safe place to visit, pickpockets do frequent the market so it is best to keep your valuables on you at all times. Don’t carry large amounts of cash and invest in a travel money belt to keep your stuff safe. It is always better to be safe rather than sorry!

What currency should I take?

Ecuador uses the USD so this is the currency that you will need. Be aware that most places will be unable to change large bills so try to use bills of under $20USD.

What days does this tour leave?

This trip takes place on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

What's Included

What’s Included:

  • Return transport from Quito to Otavalo
  • Lunch
  • Bilingual guide

What’s Not Included:

  • Additional entrance fees e.g. Quitsato $2USD
  • Boat ride $3.25USD
  • Items not mentioned in the description/itinerary

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Operator Information

About

What's great about Community Adventures?

  • The whole team are incredibly passionate about showing visitors the real Ecuador!
  • They have over 20 years of experience in tourism that they use to tailor their trips to give you unforgettable memories of your visit.
  • Community Adventures is the same people behind the Community Hostel chain in Ecuador, another backpacker favourite!
  • Fabulous feedback and reviews guarantee a great trip with Community Adventures!

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