Exploring Quito: Otavalo, the Plaza de Ponchos Market & Cotacachi

Have you ever been to Quito, Ecuador? If yes, you must have heard of the fascinating city of Otavalo, situated just north of the capital and boasting one of the most famous markets in all of South America. And if you haven’t, then what are you waiting for?

Otavalo is a city – and surrounding area – rich in both culture and stunning landscape. On the one hand, the spectacular plazas and walls of colonial buildings, such as Otavalo’s city hall, white-washed churches and colorful markets all make for beautiful sightseeing opportunities. But it’s also a place where you can explore the unique traditions, customs, and lifestyles handed down from generation to generation.

On the other hand, Otavalo is joined to the magnificent Cotacachi Volcano, part of the Andes Mountains. With snow-capped peaks that overlook thick green valleys and turquoise lakes, it’s no wonder the area has become known as the “Garden of Ecuador”.

To experience all that Otavalo has to offer – both culture and nature – we’ve collected some of our top recommendations for what to do on a visit to the city and surrounding area.

The Plaza de Ponchos Market

If there’s one thing you don’t want to miss when visiting Otavalo, it’s the infamous Plaza de Ponchos market. Located beside the main square, Otavalospecifically sells South American artesania, or handmade crafts. Every Saturday (and other days during the week), you can find stalls selling brightly-colored ponchos, hand-crafted jewelry, bags and blankets made from Alpaca and sheep wool, and all types of native decorative items made out of traditional materials. It’s a great place to take home a souvenir, snap some photos, or simply get lost in the vibrant activity, conversations with local weavers and craftspeople, and sweet, sweet smells of traditional Ecuadorian food.

Cotacachi: Nature & Crafts

Just 28 miles away from Otavalo, Cotacachi is another worthwhile destination for your Ecuadorian roadtrip. This charming small town is home to volcanic rocks and snow-capped peaks that make for great hiking trails and perfect settings for outdoor photography.

Cotacachi is also known for its leather products – jackets, bags and shoes – which draw large numbers of tourists from all around the world to its markets and workshops. The leather is renowned for its quality, after being tanned with ingredients from the nearby volcano, such as sulfur and water. Visitors can take workshops where they can learn how to turn animal skin into leather wallets or purses, or take advantage of the bargain leather-made items sold by stalls around the town.

Otavalo: Ecotourism Hotspot

As mentioned before, Otavalo is known for its traditional markets but also its surrounding nature. You’ll find countless impressive panoramic viewpoints in the area that offer beautiful views of volcanoes like Imbabura, Cayambe and Cotacachi. The city also has plenty of hiking trails lined by forests of eucalyptus trees; gorgeous waterfalls like San Pablo, which you can enjoy from zip-lines or canyoning expeditions; horseback tours around some of Ecuador’s most impressive lakes; and boat trips in Cuicocha Lake – which was formed by an extinct volcano – that reveal its turquoise waters and several small islands with Inca ruins on them.

Conclusion

A trip to Otavalo – along with Cotacachi and its volcanic landscapes – is undoubtedly a must-do when exploring Quito and Northern Ecuador. This area will not only provide an unforgettable array of experiences; from its colorful markets selling traditional crafts to its nature escape that features stunning volcanoes and a large selection of outdoor excursions; but will also tell you a captivating story about this unique corner of the world.

If you’re looking for a unique way to explore this destination, why not book a tour here.

An Insider’s Guide to Quito: Beyond the Tourist Spots

If you’re planning a trip to Quito, you’re in for a treat. This stunning city has a rich history, vibrant culture, and unique traditions. However, instead of sticking to the common tourist spots, why not explore some hidden gems that only locals know about? Here’s an insider’s guide to Quito that will help you discover the city’s best-kept secrets.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems to Discover

One of the hidden gems of Quito is the Museum of Contemporary Art, located in the historic district. It’s a great place to get a glimpse of Ecuador’s contemporary art scene and learn about new avant-garde trends. Another must-see spot is the Guayasamín Museum, which features artwork from the famous Ecuadorian painter, sculptor, and muralist Oswaldo Guayasamín.

If you’re looking for a unique experience, head to Teleférico, a scenic cable car that will take you up to the top of Pichincha Volcano. Once you’re up there, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Quito.

Dining Spots: Delving into Quito’s Food Culture

Quito is famous for its street food scene, which is both delicious and affordable. Try some of the traditional favorites like empanadas, tamales, and hornado (suckling pig). For a more upscale culinary experience, head to Zazu Restaurant, which offers an innovative take on Ecuadorian cuisine.

Food in Quito is intertwined with its fascinating history. Did you know that the city’s cuisine reflects influences from the Inca, Spanish, and African cultures that have shaped the region’s history? When you’re indulging in a meal in Quito, you’re participating in a rich culinary tradition that dates back centuries.

Cultural Experiences: Dive into Quito’s Vibrant Traditions

One of the best ways to experience Quito’s culture is to attend a local festival. Every September, the city comes alive for the Fiestas de Quito, a week-long celebration that includes parades, music, dancing, and fireworks. Another tradition unique to Quito is the annual Good Friday procession, which attracts thousands of visitors each year to witness the elaborate religious ceremony.

If you’re into art, head to the Taller de Arte Papelera, a paper-making workshop where you can learn about traditional paper-making techniques and create your own colorful souvenirs.

Local History: Fascinating Stories from Quito’s Past

Quito has a rich and complex history dating back to the Pre-Columbian era. One of the most fascinating stories from Quito’s past is that of the Quitu-Cara people, who were the original inhabitants of the region. Another captivating story is that of the Quito School of Art, where indigenous artists incorporated European techniques to create a unique artistic style that reflected their own cultural heritage.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable and Unique Experiences

For an unforgettable experience, visit the Middle of the World monument, located just outside the city limits. Here, you can stand on the Equator and learn about the science behind this iconic landmark.

Another unique experience is to take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Ecuadorian dishes like ceviche or locro de papas. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local food culture and meet new friends.

There you have it — an insider’s guide to Quito that goes beyond the typical tourist spots. By exploring hidden gems, savoring traditional cuisine, dipping into the city’s vibrant culture, and learning about its rich history, you’ll experience Quito in a whole new light.