The Otavalo cultural tour is a wonderful way to discover and combine the famous artesian indigenous market in Ecuador and some of the amazing views outside Otavalo.

This tour begins with a scenic drive north of Quito through the Sierra highlands. Our first stop will be at Mitad del Mundo, and then we’ll continue to Cayambe where we can taste and learn about the town’s famous bizcochos (local biscuits). From that point we’ll continue to the famous market of Otavalo where you’ll have the option to purchase local handicrafts. The main market day in Otavalo is Saturday; however, this tour can be operateted throughout the week (Tuesdays). Our professional guide will provide you an explanation on the indigenous people of this area, such as the Quitu, Cara and other pre-Inca groups, and some information on the city. Afterwards, we’ll go to the beautiful Laguna Cuicocha, which is located in a volcano crater and contains 2 green islands. Our last stop will be Cotacachi, a town famous for its leather garments. Before strolling through this town we receive lunch in a local restaurant. Afterwards, we return to Quito.

Note: All times approximate, EXCEPT starting time

Schedule Itinerary
07:00

07:15

 Leave from Magic Bean restaurant (Juan Leon Mera and Mariscal Foch) for transfer to Otavalo or

Leave from Jumandi café (Francisco Caldas and Av 10 de Agosto)
08:30 Quitsato Mitad del Mundo. Entrance $2
09:00 Visit at the Cayambe bizcochos (local biscuits) factory. Products not included
10:00 Viewing point “Mira Lago” where it is possible to see Cayambe, Guayllabamba, Quito, Cotopaxi, Tabacundo and flower farms.
11:30 Exploring Otavalo Market.
14:00 Arrive at Cuicocha lake
15:30 Visit Cotacachi leather town and lunch
18:30 Arrive in Quito

* We also have a pick-up point in the old town, please provide us with your details about accommodation and we can arrange a meeting point in either La Mariscal or the Old Town.

* The tour is operated by a parent operator that reserves the right to change the itinerary without previous notice due to weather, National Park regulations or notifications and unforeseeable circumstances.

Shared tour: professional and bilingual guide, lunch, transportation from/to Quito

Private tour: professional and bilingual guide, private transportation from Hotel-Otovalo-Hotel

Tips for guide, Bizcochos in Cayambe, Market Purchases

Note: Private tour does not include lunch

The weather in the area of the Laguna is unpredictable so please bring warm and waterproof clothing. It is important that you are well prepared for 3,800m (12,467 ft), so we recommend acclimatizing at least one day around 3,000m (9,842 ft).

Necessary equipment

– Warm clothes, gloves, hat – Sunglasses & Sunscreen
– Water, snacks – Hiking boots
– Camera – Waterproof jacket

Shared tour: $50 p.p. (Saturdays and Tuesdays)

Private tour:  1 pax $230 – 2 pax $115 – 3pax $85 p.p. (any day)

Full day transportation: $200 – for a group 4 pax – 6 pax max (spanish speaking driver – any day)

*If you book a day tour with us, get 20% discount at our Hostel in Old Town Quito – Hump Day Hostel

We put a lot of effort in organizing the tour; therefore cancellations require 48hrs notice by which we would give you a 50% refund, Cancellations will not be refunded with a shorter time notice.

Please note tips for our guides are not included in the price. If you enjoyed your trip, a tip of around 10% would be greatly appreciated. Tour is operated by third party company.