Considered a must-see in Ecuador, the Otavalo Market is the most famous artisanal market in South America. Add a day tour of the market to your next transformative trip with Good Life Expeditions.
Exploring the Otavalo Market
Start your journey this morning heading north out of Quito. Plummeting valleys and precarious cliffs make for incredible views as you weave through mountain ranges on the Panamerican highway. Otavalo is a small town nestled in the heart of Northern Ecuador among the towering Andes. Find the Otavalo Market in the central Plaza de Ponchos. FIlled to the brim with people, the square is bustling with activity. Your senses will be treated by the sounds of Pasillo — indigenous Ecuadorian music — and the scent of pinchos, Ecuadorian shishkabobs.
Specializing in hand-woven wool and wooden handicrafts production, the market offers a variety of handmade goods. Locals fill the square selling colorful textiles and crafts. Explore the diverse array of colorful, handmade ponchos, shawls, carpets, woven belts, purses, and more. Sometimes you can even find hand-carved instruments. The best day to visit is on Saturdays because there are more vendors.
Once you’ve had your fill of shopping, venture down the road to the small neighboring village of Peguche. Then enjoy lunch and some time on your own to explore. Perhaps take a short hike to the Peguche Waterfall, or peruse some of the small shops. Afterward, you will return to Quito to unwind from a day filled with Ecuadorian culture.
Responsible Travel with Good Life Expeditions
Add an excursion to the Otavalo Market as part of any of our incredible Ecuador itineraries. Our expert travel team can take care of all the arrangements coordinating transportation as well as checking tour availability. Contact us to learn more about the excursion, or to book it today!
