TOUR TO OTAVALO
FULL DAY
We will pick you up from your hotel or place of residence in Quito at 08:00 am
The adventure goes like this:
We head north along the Pan-American Highway until we reach the "Pisque River Viewpoint" – here you can admire the river that originates from the melting glaciers of Cayambe Volcano and carves through the canyon before joining the Guayllabamba River, which flows into the Pacific.
Then, we continue to Miralago to enjoy the typical biscuits and take in the view of San Pablo Lagoon and Imbabura Volcano.
Once in Otavalo, we will explore the indigenous market – locally called the "Plaza de Ponchos" and known as the largest indigenous market in South America.
🍝 Lunch time!!
In the afternoon we will visit the looms at Casa Condor – here you will see how rugs are made using the pre-Columbian BACKSTRAP LOOM, and how natural dyes are extracted.
Next, we'll go shopping in the famous town of Cotacachi – well-known for its handcrafted leather products.
Finally, we'll take a walk along the sacred trail at Cuicocha Lagoon, which is part of the Cotacachi-Cayapas Reserve.
Return to Quito around 6:30 pm.
Note.- It is also possible to visit the Condor Park with a slight modification to the program upon prior agreement. Likewise, to visit the animal market on Saturday, departure from the city must be very early with prior coordination.
Private Tour · Otavalo Full Day
Cost of the Private Otavalo Tour (Any Day)
Ideal rates for 2 and 3 passengers looking for comfort, safety, and flexibility.
| Number of people |
Total to pay (USD) |
| 2 passengers |
$ 190 |
| 3 passengers |
$ 240 |
* Reference prices for 2026.
* Fully private service with bilingual guide and transportation from Quito.
Otavalo Tour Includes:
- Tourist transportation
- Tour guide
Full Day Tour does NOT include:
What to bring?
- Cap/hat
- Sunscreen
- Comfortable light clothing
- Rain jacket during rainy season (November–May)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Mosquito repellent
- Small change in cash
- Camera or phone with enough storage and battery
Otavalo is waiting for me!
Follow these tips for a better experience in Otavalo:
1.) Ask for discounts when shopping. It's a cultural and common practice in the market, so don't hesitate to do it. This generally applies to products priced at $10.00 and up.
2.) Pay Attention!! Protect your belongings—there are pickpockets. Look, nobody will assault you with a weapon in the market, but there are crafty people who take advantage of your distraction to steal your things without you noticing. It usually happens when the crowd gathers, especially on Saturdays when the market is larger and busier.
3.) Bring small change. There is a shortage of coins in the market, which can waste time you could use for other things. Also, small coins will be necessary if you need to use public restrooms.
4.) Help the environment!! Bring your own bag, backpack, or tote for your purchases. Vendors will always offer you a plastic bag, but it's up to us to avoid unnecessary use of this harmful material.
SHARED TOUR TO OTAVALO FROM QUITO
ONLY $70
Departure days: Thursdays and Saturdays
We have 2 pickup points:
Departure from Plaza Foch at 07:15 (La Mariscal area)
Departure from San Blas Plaza at 07:30 (Historic Center of Quito)
The Otavalo tour experience:
- Visit a biscuit factory in Cayambe (optional breakfast)
- The Quitsato Solar Clock, located exactly on the equatorial line
- San Pablo Lake viewpoint – optional –
- Free time to explore the Plaza de Ponchos (indigenous market)
- Scenic walk along the side of Cuicocha Lagoon with breathtaking views
- Visit the leather town of "Cotacachi"
Shared one-day tour to Otavalo – only Tuesdays and Saturdays – price $70.00 per person. For reservations or more information, write us on WHATSAPP.
What does the shared Otavalo tour include?
- Tourist transportation
- Assistance from a professional bilingual tour guide
- Permits for access to protected reserves
- Lunch (set menu)
What is NOT included in the tour?
- VAT
- Entrance fees: $5.00 Quitsato
- Tips
Let's go to Otavalo!
