EC
Otavalo
The Andes’ famous indigenous market town, ringed by volcanoes and crater lakes
The Andes’ famous indigenous market town, ringed by volcanoes and crater lakes
The market runs every day, but on Saturdays it takes over much of the town, with weavings, alpaca blankets, tapestries, Panama hats and musical instruments. An animal market takes place on the edge of town early on Saturday mornings.
Bargaining is expected, politely; arrive early for the animal market.
Photo: Arabsalam, CC BY-SA 4.0
A short trip from town, the Peguche waterfall drops through a eucalyptus forest that is sacred to the local Kichwa community, and a site of ritual bathing during Inti Raymi.
Easy walk or short taxi ride from the centre.
Photo: TupakAmaruIshkay, CC BY-SA 4.0
A deep crater lake with two forested islands at the foot of Cotacachi volcano, about 30 minutes’ drive away. A rim trail of about 14km circles the crater, with superb views; boat trips run on the lake.
Start the rim hike early, before clouds build.
Photo: Ymblanter, CC BY-SA 4.0
Try fritada (fried pork with corn and potatoes), locro de papa (potato and cheese soup), roasted guinea pig (cuy) on special occasions, and fresh fruit juices. Cafés around the Plaza de los Ponchos cater well to travellers.
Nearby Cotacachi is known for carne colorada, marinated beef.
Buses run frequently from Quito’s Carcelén terminal to Otavalo, taking about 2 hours. From Quito airport a private transfer takes about 1 hour 30 minutes.
Local buses and cheap taxis connect Otavalo with Peguche, Cotacachi and Laguna Cuicocha. A tourist train runs between Otavalo and Ibarra.
Ecuador uses the US dollar, and Otavalo is inexpensive.
Buses from Quito cost a few dollars.
Historic haciendas nearby offer characterful stays.
Book ahead for Saturdays and Inti Raymi.
Plan to be in town on a Saturday.
Early visit to the animal market, then the Plaza de los Ponchos and the surrounding streets. Afternoon at Peguche waterfall.
Carry small bills and keep valuables secure in the crowds.
Hike the rim of Laguna Cuicocha in the morning, then lunch and leather shopping in Cotacachi.
Bring sun protection; the sun is strong at altitude.
The market runs daily but is biggest on Saturdays.
At over 2,500m, take it easy on your first day.
Ask before photographing people, especially at ceremonies.
Pack sunscreen and a warm layer.
Quick answers for planning time in Otavalo.
By bus from Quito’s Carcelén terminal, about 2 hours, with frequent departures; or by private transfer.
Every day, but the biggest market is on Saturday, including an early-morning animal market.
Yes, for its famous market, Kichwa culture, and the volcanoes, waterfalls and crater lakes around it.
The Andean festival of the sun, celebrated around the June solstice with music, dancing and ritual bathing at Peguche waterfall.
About 2,532m above sea level.
Offline maps help on hiking trails and in areas with weak signal.
Free
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