Full day Otavalo. Tour of Andean culture, crafts, and landscapes.

3.7
(6 reviews)
Quito, Ecuador

9 to 10 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English and 1 more

A private driver-guide will be your companion of Otavalo, ensuring an experience connected to Andean culture. Discover the ancestral traditions of this town, its colors, costumes and beliefs. Contemplate the imposing Peguche waterfall and discover its cultural significance. Be captivated by the landscapes and panoramic views you will enjoy throughout our tour.

On this tour, you will experience the diversity of Otavalo culture and its importance to Ecuador.

Please note: For groups of up to 5 travelers, an expert Driver-Guide will accompany you, serving as both your driver and guide. For groups of 6 or more, a dedicated driver and a separate professional guide will be provided to enhance your experience.

What's Included

Entrance Fee to Peguche Waterfall
Entrance Fee to the Quitsato Sundial and Museum
MIRALAGO: Tasting of traditional bizcochos (savory crackers or dry biscuits) served with dulce de leche (caramel) and local cheese.
Bottle of purified water
Professional bilingual Guide
Food and Drinks
Gratuities
Hotel pick-off and drop-off outside of the city. The extra cost can range from $30 till $70
Lunch
Optional/Additional Visit to Cuicocha Lagoon

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

Hotel pick-off and drop-off outside of the city. The extra cost can range from $30 till $70 depending on the number of passengers and location

Itinerary

Duration: 9 to 10 hours (approximately)
  • 1

    Quitsato is the key location where you'll understand the deep connection indigenous people had with the universe and the sun. You'll see the sundial, an important element for ancestral communities that influenced their crops and customs. This is the precise spot where the Equator divides the planet, giving you the opportunity to understand the unique characteristics of the Middle of the World. NOTE: Visiting the Cuicocha Lagoon is an alternative if you choose not to participate in the activities at the Quitsato Sundial Museum. Entrance fees are not included.

    40 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 2

    At this site, capture amazing photos of Imbabura Volcano and the immense San Pablo Lake. While you enjoy the views,try the delicious traditional bizcochos (savory crackers or dry biscuits) served with dulce de leche (caramel) and local cheese. Your guide will use this time to give an interesting introduction to the local Otavalo culture.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Lago San Pablo

    We will continue with a brief visit to Laguna de San Pablo, at the foot of the majestic Imbabura Volcano. This sacred lake offers stunning views and perfect spots for photography. Next, we will follow the Ancient Weavers’ Route, visiting the homes and workshops of the Kichwa Otavalo communities. You’ll observe up close the ancestral process in which skilled hands transform threads into colorful ponchos, scarves, tapestries, and other works of art.

    50 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Cascada de Peguche

    As an agency, we are committed to sharing and preserving this site of deep sacred and cultural value for indigenous communities. Here, you will walk along a forest-surrounded trail to reach a majestic 18-meter waterfall, where you will discover its ancestral significance and learn about the traditional activities that the communities carry out in this meaningful place.

    1 hour Admission ticket included
  • 5

    LUNCH TIME: Savor an authentic and delicious lunch featuring traditional regional dishes at a carefully selected local restaurant, a true taste of Ecuadorian gastronomy.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 6
    Otavalo Market

    Explore the largest indigenous handicraft market in South America, where colors and textures awaken your senses. Discover the authentic spirit of the Otavalo people and their unique textiles, woven with ancestral techniques that have endured through time. If your visit falls on a Saturday, you’ll also have the chance to experience a vibrant local market full of life and tradition. NOTE: Visiting the Cuicocha Lagoon is an alternative if you choose not to participate in the activities at the Quitsato Sundial Museum. Entrance fees are not included.

    1 hour Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
  • Operates in all weather conditions, weather may vary please dress appropriately
Supplied by Andean Roots Travel

Tags

Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
4WD Tours
Shore Excursions
Additional fees
Zombie
Port Pickup
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

3.7 Based on 6 6 reviews
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