Full-Day Private Tour from Quito to Otavalo Indian Market

Quito, Ecuador
Duration10h - 12h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish, French, Spanish
Private tourOnly your group will participate
Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below

Overview

Otavalo, steeped in Quechua culture, stands as the quintessential tourist destination in our country, internationally renowned primarily for its indigenous market, but that's not all... Imbabura Province boasts Cuicocha Lake, known as The Lake of the Gods... Peguche Waterfall , famous for its rituals... and the town of Cotacachi... all these experiences you shouldn't miss on your journey in the northern part of Ecuador. This tour may be tiring for you and our guide... but in the end, you'll realize it was worth it.

Options

Private Tour

Private Tour | Daily Departure: Discover Otavalo Market, Peguche Waterfall and San Pablo Lake on a private day trip from Quito with culture, nature and local
Pickup included

Shared Tour

Shared Tour | Daily Departures: Shared Otavalo Day Tour from Quito. Visit Otavalo Market, Peguche Waterfall and San Pablo Lake. Daily departures available.
Pickup included

What's included

  • Private transportation
  • Naturalist and bilingual guide
  • Please note: 1 driver-guide for 1-6 passengers
  • Entrance fees and registration to national parks
  • Activities and transfers according to the itinerary.
  • From 7 passengers: 1 additional driver plus 1 guide
  • Gratuities
  • Lunch not included

What to expect

  1. Quito
    Pass by
    We depart from Quito and embark on our journey northward along the Pan-American Highway towards Imbabura Province, where we will discover the vibrant town of Otavalo. (Travel time from Quito to Pisque: 35 minutes)
  2. 1h 10m · Admission ticket included
    The Pisque Viewpoint is a standout spot along the route between Guayllabamba and Tabacundo, in the Pichincha Province of Ecuador. Serving as a strategic point to relish the breathtaking views of the Andean landscapes, the Pisque Viewpoint is an option you won't want to miss.

    (Continue to Miralago: 25 minutes)
  3. Miralago
    1h · Admission ticket included
    We'll enjoy a brief stop at a charming craft shop, where you'll have the opportunity to purchase authentic products from the region. Additionally, you can indulge in some Andean coffee while taking in the spectacular views of the picturesque San Pablo Lake and its surroundings. From this strategic vantage point, you can admire the majestic presence of Taita Imbabura, a mountain of great importance to the local indigenous communities, as well as the fascinating Mojanda knot and the Cajas.
    (Continue to Peguche Waterfall: 25 minutes)
  4. Peguche
    1h 20m
    Visit and hike to the Ceremonial Waterfall of Peguche/Chi: This place has Kichwa roots, and its name means 'steam or sacred water vapor descending from above.' In the Kichwa language, 'steam' is translated as 'sami,' 'samay,' or 'ashnac,' synonymous with the energy or power of Yacumama (the Power of Water).

    During solstices and equinoxes, special ceremonies and festivities take place at this location.

    (Continue to Music workshop: 20 min)
  5. 30m · Admission ticket included
    Next, we'll head to the home of the musical group Ñanda Mañachi, where you'll have the opportunity to observe a variety of typical musical instruments from Andean countries, used to create folk music. During this visit, you'll have the chance to interact closely with the artists, allowing you to better understand their culture and their deep love for art and Mother Earth.

    (Travel Time from Ñanda Mañachi's Workshop to Otavalo Indian Market: 25 min)
  6. Plaza De Los Ponchos Mercado
    2h · Admission ticket included
    The colorful Otavalo market, affectionately known as the Plaza de Ponchos, stands as the largest indigenous market in all of Latin America. Here, you can delight in a wide range of textiles, jewelry, bags, alpaca toys, necklaces, leather products, hats, and countless other treasures. Immerse yourself in the local culture as you interact with artisans and witness their skills in action.

    After your free time to enjoy the market, we'll take a break for lunch (lunch not included) before continuing to Laguna de Cuicocha.

    (Continue to Cuicocha Lake: 40 min)
    Attraction Time at Plaza de Ponchos: 60 minutes
  7. Laguna de Cuicocha
    40m · Admission ticket not included
    Laguna de Cuicocha is situated on the majestic southeastern slopes of Mama Cotacachi, at an altitude of 3,060 meters above sea level. It stands out as the most beautiful and picturesque of the northern Ecuadorian lakes. This lacustrine gem is a crater or caldera of ancient formation that captivates with its three-kilometer diameter and its crystalline waters. In its center lie the islets of Teodoro Wolf (the largest) and José María Yerovi, divided by 'The Canal of Dreams.' In this region, mountain guinea pigs, known as 'guinea pigs,' inhabit the area, giving this fascinating lagoon its name.

    (Continue to Cotacachi Magic Town: 25 min)
  8. Cotacachi
    45m
    The charming town of Cotacachi is nestled at the foot of the volcano that bears its name. Its community excels in the leather industry, from production to commercialization. Leather goods are one of its major attractions, with numerous shops offering a wide variety of crafts, clothing, and footwear.

    Especially renowned for its high-quality dairy products, the city also dedicates itself to the export of flowers and asparagus.

    The name Cotacachi originates from the Quechua language and means 'The Salt of Powder,' adding a touch of history and significance to this vibrant community.

    The return to Quito not only marks the end of a day full of discoveries but also the anticipation of sharing our experiences.

    Return to Quito: 3 hours
  9. Quito
    3h
    The return to Quito not only marks the end of a day full of discoveries but also the anticipation of sharing our experiences and memories with those who share our interest in exploration

Meeting and pickup

Pickup details

Contact us to coordinate your pickup point and confirm the departure time. Remember, our tour is private, so you only need to let us know your location (including Quito airport) to begin the experience. Additionally, if you prefer to start the tour from another city or end it at a different location, please inform us so we can provide you with a personalized quote. We're here to make your trip as convenient and enjoyable as possible.

Additional information

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

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

Parts of this description were translated automatically.

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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
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  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
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