Otavalo Culture, Lakes, and Market Day Trip

5.0 (3 reviews) Quito, Ecuador
Duration7h - 8h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish, Spanish
Group sizeUp to 15 travelers

Overview

This tour is totally personalized, complete and you will also know everything about the attractions of the route with the vast knowledge of our experienced, certified and very professional guides. You can also get up close to the elaboration of musical instruments and the elaboration of textiles and handicrafts by hand by the local indigenous communities.
It will be very interesting to observe the culture of this destination, its inhabitants wear their typical "Otavaleños" costumes, you will know the meaning of each part of their attire.

Completely free, you have the right to taste the traditional biscuits of the region that you can only find in this beautiful country. This is an excursion in the northern Andes region with a temperate climate, so we recommend bringing light but also warm clothing for the afternoons and waterproof clothing in case it rains.

Options

Boat ride on Cuicocha Lagoon

approximate cost of $10.

Full-day. Otavalo Culture, Lakes and Indigenous Market.

What's included

  • All Fees and Taxes
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Guía Nacional de turismo
  • Meals

What to expect

  1. Guayllabamba
    2h
    Transfer from Quito city (2:00) and if visitors prefer they can taste the traditional cherimoya fruits, we can stop for a couple of minutes to buy them (price not included).
  2. Miralago
    30m
    From this viewpoint we will have a beautiful view of Lake San Pablo. It is located in the province of Imbabura, Ecuador, at an altitude of 2,700 meters above sea level. It has an area of 3.5 x 2.2 km covering around 583 hectares and an approximate depth of 83 m.
  3. Lago San Pablo
    Pass by
    Observation of this beautiful lake from the viewpoint and during part of the journey.
  4. Plaza De Los Ponchos Mercado
    2h
    A range of textiles and handicrafts can be found in this spectacular market.
    Here it is also possible to buy from its inhabitants who, with their traditional clothing, will show their textiles and crafts made by hand and for all the preferences of the visitors. This is one of the largest indigenous markets in the country and in South America.
  5. Peguche Wasi
    1h 30m · Admission ticket included
    In this place you will be able to learn more about the elaboration of traditional textiles by hand and with looms (combined technique between hand weaving and with rustic wooden instruments).

    Later we will also visit "Ñanda Mañachi" this is a workshop for making musical instruments typical of the communities in this sector.
  6. Laguna de Cuicocha
    2h · Admission ticket included
    Visit to the lagoon where you can see its islets.
    This is called "Laguna de los Dioses" and is at an altitude of 3,068 meters above sea level, it is part of the Cotacachi-Cayapas Ecological Reserve, which is located between the provinces of Imbabura and Esmeraldas.

    It is formed by an old crater at the foot of the Cotacachi Volcano, it is approximately 200 m. deep, in it two islets stand out.

    The lagoon is considered sacred, since these waters are the scene of shamanic purification rites. Every year at the time of the summer solstice, purification baths are held on its shores.

    In this area you can see animals such as the mountain guinea pig, the wild rabbit, the armadillo, the Andean fox and a large number of birds. On certain privileged occasions you can see the king of the Andes, the Condor, taking a high flight over that spectacular place.
    You can also take a boat ride (optional activity and price not included).
  7. Pass by
    Transfer to Quito city (2:30)

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Pick-up is available at the hotel, provided it is located in the Historic Center of Quito.

End point

Pick-up is available at the hotel, provided it is located in the Historic Center of Quito.

Additional information

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

5.0 (3)
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