Otavalo Market, Art and Music with Middle of the World (Sundial)
Overview
Available languages
8 hours
Mobile ticket
Explore one of the oldest indigenous markets in South America. Visit Quitsato, the astronomical middle of the world. Standing on two hemispheres is only possible on the equator line. Visit the largest agave garden in South America. See a traditional workshop where textiles are still made by hand on a backstrap loom. Walk to the ancient waterfall where the natives used to initiate the ceremonies of the Inti-raymi or festival of the sun. Visit the Ñanda Mañachi; a workshop of Andean instruments.
What day can I visit the Otavalo Market?
The market operates everyday, however on Wednesdays there is a larger influx of people and on Saturdays the market is bigger because all the market merchants show their products.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
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
What To Expect
Quito
Two hours of travel from Quito will be enough to reach out Otavalo city. As we drive north, we will take several first-order roads that will allow us to see an Andean scenery with variations due to its climate, altitude and especially its people. We will take several photos and admire the northern part of the well-known "Avenue of the volcanoes". Upon arrival, we will observe some enormous volcanoes which are consider sacred by the native people.
Quitsato Sundial
Quitsato's Middle of the World is based on scientific and astronomical concepts. The site of the True Middle of the World. It is an astronomical centre that investigates how ancestors used this knowledge in favor of the crops. Standing out on two hemispheres is just possible in this place. Learn how indigenous people used the mountains to determinate the middle of the world.
Options
Otavalo Market, Art and Music with Middle of the World (Sundial)
Pickup included
What‘s Included
Pick-up from hotel or Quito Airport
Activities according to the program
Professional Guide/Driver with private car
Travel Insurance
Lunch
Rose plantation
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
8 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Life outside of Quito
John D,Nov 10, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Be ready for an amazing day. The tour truly gives you a feeling for the life outside of the city-yummy treats and coffee, lunch at local restaurant, and an amazing g waterfall hike. We went in to see an indigenous man and his wife weaving. Wonderful. Volcanoes. Go rain or shine.
Otavalo Market and Equator and lots more
CW K,Jan 13, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Eduardo was fantastic. He was our driver (great), our guide (awesome). He was able to answer all our questions. He didn't rush us. He gave us lots of time. He customized the day to our interest. He was very open and informative about life in Ecuador. We would highly recommend Eduardo.
You must do this trip!!
GPJJune2017,Nov 20, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00An absolutely fantastic trip. A must if you come to Ecuador, Eduardo and Carolina are both fantastic guides and you will not be disappointed. This was my 2nd trip with Eduardo’s company and both were first class.
Very good trip; not good shopping
Carolyn J,Mar 28, 2023
- Review from Viator
5.00Excellent Guide-friendly and knowledgeable. Loved the Middle of the World; Otovalo Market was not what I expected-low quality sellers/products. Lunch was very good. Enjoyed all but the Market.
Favorite tour in Ecuador
Ryan W,Mar 13, 2023
- Review from Viator
5.00Marcelo was an amazing tour guide! His knowledge of the area is unparalleled, and a huge added bonus was that he is a master of Ecuadorian history and wildlife! Super cool guy, great tour, and my favorite day trip I took from Quito. Also, I enjoyed the freedom and options that he provided. Thanks again
Excellent
arunasalamn2022,Aug 4, 2022
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a nice trip with Eduardo. He an excellent guide. Showed us nice view points on the way to Otavalo. Very patient and gave us ample time to visit the market and explained very well about the history and traditions.
Fantastic day
V5197FQrosag,Nov 3, 2021
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Fantastic day in Otavalo, the tour starts in Quito and drives for couple hours to get in Otavalo, we stop to have some snacks and see the lake, in the market we bought a poncho and blankets, good market to bargain... the guide was very nice and funny, we spent a perfect day...
Stunning landscapes
diegopU6620ZG,Mar 8, 2020
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The trip to Otavalo was full of mountains and volcanoes, I loved seeing the indigenous people with their colorful clothing, while our Guide tells us about their history. Nearby Otavalo, we stopped at a viewpoint to take pics a very large lagoon that is next to a big volcano. Upon arrival, the Otavalo market we were surprised to see so much activity and color, really Otavalo is a place worth visiting if you arrive in Ecuador. You can do it leaving from Quito and return at the same day.
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