Full-Day Private Tour from Quito to Otavalo Indian Market

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

• Quito (Pass by)

  We depart from Quito and embark on our journey northward along the Pan-American Highway towards Imbabura Province, where we will discover the vibrant town of Otavalo. (Travel time from Quito to Pisque: 35 minutes)

  Admission ticket free
• 1

  The Pisque Viewpoint is a standout spot along the route between Guayllabamba and Tabacundo, in the Pichincha Province of Ecuador. Serving as a strategic point to relish the breathtaking views of the Andean landscapes, the Pisque Viewpoint is an option you won't want to miss. (Continue to Miralago: 25 minutes)

  1 hour 10 minutes • Admission ticket included
• 2

  We'll enjoy a brief stop at a charming craft shop, where you'll have the opportunity to purchase authentic products from the region. Additionally, you can indulge in some Andean coffee while taking in the spectacular views of the picturesque San Pablo Lake and its surroundings. From this strategic vantage point, you can admire the majestic presence of Taita Imbabura, a mountain of great importance to the local indigenous communities, as well as the fascinating Mojanda knot and the Cajas. (Continue to Peguche Waterfall: 25 minutes)

  1 hour • Admission ticket included
• 3
  Peguche

  Visit and hike to the Ceremonial Waterfall of Peguche/Chi: This place has Kichwa roots, and its name means 'steam or sacred water vapor descending from above.' In the Kichwa language, 'steam' is translated as 'sami,' 'samay,' or 'ashnac,' synonymous with the energy or power of Yacumama (the Power of Water). During solstices and equinoxes, special ceremonies and festivities take place at this location. (Continue to Music workshop: 20 min)

  1 hour 20 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 4

  Next, we'll head to the home of the musical group Ñanda Mañachi, where you'll have the opportunity to observe a variety of typical musical instruments from Andean countries, used to create folk music. During this visit, you'll have the chance to interact closely with the artists, allowing you to better understand their culture and their deep love for art and Mother Earth. (Travel Time from Ñanda Mañachi's Workshop to Otavalo Indian Market: 25 min)

  30 minutes • Admission ticket included
• 5

  The colorful Otavalo market, affectionately known as the Plaza de Ponchos, stands as the largest indigenous market in all of Latin America. Here, you can delight in a wide range of textiles, jewelry, bags, alpaca toys, necklaces, leather products, hats, and countless other treasures. Immerse yourself in the local culture as you interact with artisans and witness their skills in action. After your free time to enjoy the market, we'll take a break for lunch (lunch not included) before continuing to Laguna de Cuicocha. (Continue to Cuicocha Lake: 40 min) Attraction Time at Plaza de Ponchos: 60 minutes

  2 hours • Admission ticket included
• 6

  Laguna de Cuicocha is situated on the majestic southeastern slopes of Mama Cotacachi, at an altitude of 3,060 meters above sea level. It stands out as the most beautiful and picturesque of the northern Ecuadorian lakes. This lacustrine gem is a crater or caldera of ancient formation that captivates with its three-kilometer diameter and its crystalline waters. In its center lie the islets of Teodoro Wolf (the largest) and José María Yerovi, divided by 'The Canal of Dreams.' In this region, mountain guinea pigs, known as 'guinea pigs,' inhabit the area, giving this fascinating lagoon its name. (Continue to Cotacachi Magic Town: 25 min)

  40 minutes • Admission ticket not included
• 7

  The charming town of Cotacachi is nestled at the foot of the volcano that bears its name. Its community excels in the leather industry, from production to commercialization. Leather goods are one of its major attractions, with numerous shops offering a wide variety of crafts, clothing, and footwear. Especially renowned for its high-quality dairy products, the city also dedicates itself to the export of flowers and asparagus. The name Cotacachi originates from the Quechua language and means 'The Salt of Powder,' adding a touch of history and significance to this vibrant community. The return to Quito not only marks the end of a day full of discoveries but also the anticipation of sharing our experiences. Return to Quito: 3 hours

  45 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 8
  Quito

  The return to Quito not only marks the end of a day full of discoveries but also the anticipation of sharing our experiences and memories with those who share our interest in exploration

  3 hours • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Show 1 more

Tags