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Offered languages
- English
- Spanish
In the heart of South America, nestled just two hours north of Quito, lies the enigmatic town of Otavalo. It's not just any town; it's a pulsating epicenter of culture, art, and nature. Known far and wide for hosting the continent's most expansive Indian handicraft market, Otavalo is more than just a marketplace. It's a tapestry of vibrant colors, intricate woodwork, and masterful weaving.
Beyond the bustling stalls and the hum of barter, Otavalo's soul lies in its breathtaking backdrop. Majestic peaks, serene lakes, and untouched natural reserves cradle this town, while whispers of ancient Indian villages dance in the wind. Otavalo isn't just a destination; it's an experience, a journey into the heart of a land that time forgot.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Right Next to Secret Garden Hostel - If you are staying in the New Town Mariscal, we also have a meeting point at Hilton Colon - 7.30am at 7.45am - just let us know upon booking which you prefer.
Itinerary
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1
Go FAR Offices / CarpeDM Offices will be the meeting point to start the tour in Quito, Ecuador. Located next to Secret Garden Hostel 7:20 am depart Quito Old Town 7.30 am depart Quito Hilton Colon New Town 9:00 am Bizcochos y Queso de Cayambe 9:30 am San pablo lake 10:15 am Plazas de Ponchos of Otavalo approx. 2hrs. 12:30 am Cotacachi Leather Market with a stop for lunch at typical Ecuadorian Restaurant 2.00 pm Peguche Waterfalls or Cuicocha lake (only one depending on numbers) 2:30 pm return to Quito 6.00 pm back in Quito
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
Sample the famous Cheese and Biscuits from Cayambe
20 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3
San Pablo del Lago is a beautiful Lake. The surrounding mountains and volcano make for some breath-taking scenery. The surrounding area is filled with some amazing lodges, hotels and haciendas. Besides being an incredibly relaxing place to go, there are many recreational activities that can be enjoyed in the area.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4
Plaza de los Ponchos, also known as the Centennial Market, is the setting for the largest artisan fair in northern Ecuador. Located in the province of Imbabura in the town of Otavalo. The activity of the Plaza de Ponchos Ecuador is intended to market handicrafts, both locally, regionally, nationally and even internationally. The textiles of Otavalo are its flag of artisan production, however also offers other types of products made of wood, works of art with ceramics, wood, paint, metal etc..
2 hours • Admission ticket free -
5
Cotacachi is a small artisan town. Located in the Imbabura province, Ecuador. Cotacachi has amazing hot springs, lush forests, nature reserves, and snowy summits. Cotacachi's main production is leather goods. In the center of the town, there are dozens of shops with good quality leather products such as jackets, pants, belts, wallets, shoes, bags and more..
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
6
Cuicocha's famous lake rests inside a 3 km (2 mi) wide caldera that resulted from a massive explosion that occurred approximately 3,100 years ago. The volcano has been dormant ever since, but the volcanic ash that scattered as a result of that old eruption turned the area into one known for its nutrient-rich soils.
45 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- What to bring:
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
Show 3 more
Additional info
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- What to bring:
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Extra snacks and water
- Face masks
- Hand sanitizer
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Show more
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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