How to Plan Your Tour to Otavalo: Plaza de Ponchos Market & Cotacachi

Are you looking for an exciting day trip from Quito and a chance to experience the vibrant culture of Ecuador? Then look no further than the Plaza de Ponchos market in the city of Otavalo. This full-day tour is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in Andean music, traditional crafts, and delicious food. Here is how to plan your tour to Otavalo:

Overview

This tour begins with a comfortable pickup from your hotel in Quito and a scenic drive through the Andean landscape to Otavalo. You will visit Casa Condor, a fabric gallery, to watch demonstrations of the ancient methods for preparing and coloring wool. You will also attend a traditional Andean musical performance with the musician Ñanda Mañachi. After that, you will explore the vibrant stalls and handicrafts at the Plaza de Ponchos market. This bustling market is one of the largest in South America, and you will find everything from colorful textiles and ceramics to silver jewelry and wood carvings. Finally, you will walk through the quaint streets of the town of Cotacachi to shop for leather products.

Highlights

– Stop to savor the sweet and creamy flavors of a fresh chirimoya apple – Attend a traditional Andean musical performance with the musician Ñanda Mañachi – Watch a demonstration of the ancient methods for preparing and coloring wool – Explore the colorful stalls and handicrafts at the Plaza de Ponchos market – Walk through the streets of the town of Cotacachi to shop for leather products.

Itinerary

Here is a detailed breakdown of the day’s activities: 7:00 – 8:00 am: Hotel pickup and drive to Otavalo 9:00 – 10:00 am: Visit Casa Condor to learn about traditional fabric-making techniques 11:00 am – 12:00 pm: Attend a musical performance with Ñanda Mañachi 1:00 – 3:00 pm: Explore the colorful stalls and handicrafts at the Plaza de Ponchos market 4:00 – 5:00 pm: Walk through the town of Cotacachi and shop for leather products 6:00 – 7:00 pm: Return to Quito and drop-off at your hotel

Inclusions

This tour includes: – Hotel pickup and drop-off – Guide – Food and drinks

Booking

To book this tour, simply click here and complete the payment process on GetYourGuide’s website. Please note that you will need to show your voucher to the guide at the beginning of the tour.

Tips

– Wear comfortable shoes for walking and bring a jacket for the cool Andean weather. – Be prepared to negotiate prices at the market. – Don’t be afraid to ask questions and interact with the locals – they are friendly and proud of their culture. – Take lots of photos to capture the vibrant colors and lively atmosphere. In conclusion, a tour to Otavalo is an unforgettable experience that will immerse you in the rich culture and traditions of Ecuador. With this comprehensive guide, you can plan your tour with confidence and ensure that you make the most of your time in this vibrant city. Don’t hesitate to book now and embark on a journey of discovery and adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions About Otavalo

1. Where is Otavalo located?

Otavalo is a small town located in the province of Imbabura, in northern Ecuador. It is approximately 110 km north of Quito, the capital city of Ecuador.

2. What is Otavalo famous for?

Otavalo is famous for its indigenous markets, which are held every day in different parts of the town. The most famous of these markets is the Saturday market, which attracts tourists from all over the world. The market is known for its colorful textiles, handicrafts, and traditional Andean music.

3. What other attractions are there in Otavalo?

Apart from the markets, Otavalo has many other attractions to offer. Some of these include:

• Cuicocha Lake
• Peguche Waterfall
• San Pablo Lake
• Parque Cóndor
• Mojanda Volcanoes

4. What are some traditional dishes in Otavalo?

Some of the traditional dishes from Otavalo include:

• Hornado – roasted pork served with potatoes, corn, and salad
• Locro – a hearty soup made with potatoes, cheese, avocado, and corn
• Churrasco – grilled beef served with rice, fried plantains, and salad
• Empanadas – fried or baked pastry filled with cheese or meat

5. What is the best time to visit Otavalo?

The best time to visit Otavalo is during the dry season, which runs from June to September, and December to January. During this time, the weather is mild, and there is less chance of rain. However, if you want to experience the full range of the markets, it is best to visit on a Saturday when the main market is open.

6. How do I get to Otavalo?

Otavalo can be reached by bus or car from Quito. There are several bus companies that operate daily services to Otavalo from Quito’s northern bus terminal. The journey takes approximately two hours. You can also hire a taxi or rent a car to get to Otavalo.

7. Is Otavalo a safe place to visit?

Otavalo is generally a safe place to visit. However, it is always advisable to take the usual precautions that you would take when traveling to a foreign country. Be aware of your surroundings, keep your valuables safe, and avoid walking alone at night.

8. What currency is used in Otavalo?

The currency used in Ecuador is the US dollar. Most shops and restaurants in Otavalo will accept US dollars, but it is always advisable to carry small notes and coins as change can be a problem. There are also several ATMs and banks in Otavalo where you can withdraw money.

9. What is the language spoken in Otavalo?

The majority of people in Otavalo speak Spanish, but many also speak Kichwa, the indigenous language of the Otavalo people. English is not widely spoken, so it is a good idea to learn some basic Spanish phrases before visiting.

10. Is bargaining expected at the markets in Otavalo?

Yes, bargaining is expected at the markets in Otavalo. It is part of the culture, and vendors expect customers to negotiate on prices. However, it is important to be respectful and not to haggle too aggressively.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Otavalo

Otavalo is a beautiful town located in the north of Ecuador, famous for its indigenous culture, traditional crafts, and colorful markets. If you’re planning a trip to Otavalo, you’re in for a treat. In this guide, we’ll show you the best things to do in Otavalo to make the most of your time there.

1. Visit the Otavalo Market

The Otavalo Market is one of the most famous and colorful markets in South America, and it’s a must-visit when in Otavalo. The market is held every Saturday, and it’s a great place to buy traditional crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. The market is split into different sections, with each section selling different products, which makes it easy to navigate. Make sure to haggle for the best price, but remember to be respectful to the vendors.

2. Explore the Peguche Waterfall

The Peguche Waterfall is located just outside Otavalo and is a beautiful natural attraction. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the town. You can take a short hike to get to the waterfall, and once you arrive, you can take a refreshing swim in the natural pool at the base of the waterfall.

3. Learn about the Indigenous Culture

The Otavalo region is home to the Otavaleño people, who have a rich and vibrant culture. You can learn about their culture by visiting one of the many indigenous communities in the area. The communities offer cultural tours where you can learn about their way of life, traditions, and crafts. You can also visit the Museo Viviente Otavalango, a living museum that showcases the culture of the Otavaleño people.

4. Visit the Cuicocha Lake

The Cuicocha Lake is a crater lake located near Otavalo and is a beautiful natural attraction. The lake is surrounded by the Cotacachi-Cayapas Ecological Reserve and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You can take a boat ride on the lake and hike around the crater for breathtaking views.

5. Eat Traditional Ecuadorian Food

Otavalo is home to many traditional Ecuadorian dishes that you must try during your stay. Some of the must-try dishes include:

• Ceviche: raw fish marinated in citrus juice and spices
• Hornado: roasted pork served with potatoes, corn, and salad
• Locro: a hearty soup made with potatoes, corn, and cheese
• Empanadas: fried or baked pastries filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables

6. Visit the Condor Park

The Condor Park is a wildlife reserve located near Otavalo that is dedicated to the conservation of birds of prey. The park is home to many species of birds of prey, including condors, eagles, falcons, and owls. You can take a guided tour of the park and see the birds up close and learn about their conservation efforts.

7. Take a Day Trip to Cotacachi

Cotacachi is a nearby town known for its leather goods. The town is home to many leather shops, and you can buy high-quality leather products such as bags, jackets, and shoes at affordable prices. Cotacachi is also home to the Cotacachi-Cayapas Ecological Reserve, which offers hiking trails and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

8. Visit the Parque Cóndor

Located just outside Otavalo is the Parque Cóndor, a wildlife reserve dedicated to the preservation of birds of prey. Here, you can witness the majesty of birds such as owls, eagles, and falcons up close. These birds have all been rescued and are now protected within this reserve.

Book Your Tour Now

Otavalo is a beautiful town that offers a unique blend of indigenous culture, natural beauty, and traditional crafts. No matter what your interests are, there’s something for everyone in Otavalo. These are just a few of the best things to do in Otavalo, but there’s so much more to explore. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Ecuador.