Otavalo Unveiled: A Day Journey Through Time and Tradition!
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
In the heart of South America, nestled just two hours north of Quito, lies the enigmatic town of Otavalo. It's not just any town; it's a pulsating epicenter of culture, art, and nature. Known far and wide for hosting the continent's most expansive Indian handicraft market, Otavalo is more than just a marketplace. It's a tapestry of vibrant colors, intricate woodwork, and masterful weaving.
Beyond the bustling stalls and the hum of barter, Otavalo's soul lies in its breathtaking backdrop. Majestic peaks, serene lakes, and untouched natural reserves cradle this town, while whispers of ancient Indian villages dance in the wind. Otavalo isn't just a destination; it's an experience, a journey into the heart of a land that time forgot.
Additional Info
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What to bring:
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Extra snacks and water
Face masks
Hand sanitizer
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Go FAR Offices / CarpeDM Offices will be the meeting point to start the tour in Quito, Ecuador. Located next to Secret Garden Hostel 7:20 am depart Quito Old Town 7.30 am depart Quito Hilton Colon New Town 9:00 am Bizcochos y Queso de Cayambe 9:30 am San pablo lake 10:15 am Plazas de Ponchos of Otavalo approx. 2hrs. 12:30 am Cotacachi Leather Market with a stop for lunch at typical Ecuadorian Restaurant 2.00 pm Peguche Waterfalls or Cuicocha lake (only one depending on numbers) 2:30 pm return to Quito 6.00 pm back in Quito
Fabrica de Bizcochos San Pedro
Sample the famous Cheese and Biscuits from Cayambe
What‘s Included
What’s Included:
Professional guide
Lunch
Private Transport
What’s Not Included:
Additional Snacks / Beverages
TIPS
Breakfast
Options
Otavalo Unveiled: Full Day!
Otavalo Unveiled: Full Day: Shared option for dates other than Saturday
VIP CarpeDM Private
Private Tour
Otavalo Daytour
Reviews
36 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Scenic, interesting Tour of Countryside and Markets
W7981PRjanem,Feb 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The tour took us to towns outside of Quito providing information about how Ecuadorians live and work in the countryside. Our guide and driver was Lincoln Guaman who provided interesting facts about the local economies. We discussed a variety of topics such as the environment, agriculture, native attire and the markets. His knowledge of Ecuador and the surrounds was outstanding. The visit to the Bizcochos restaurant baking and Aguave (tequila making) demonstration was enjoyable. Loved Cotacachi and the beautiful scenery of the area. I would recommend Lincoln for your local tours is you can book him.
Around Quito
Ana Lucia P,Jan 30, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Tour of nearby cities of Quito to experience the culture, customs and food. Another chance to get to know Ecuador better.
Worthwhile day trip
seejenroam,Jan 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The guide Felipe was excellent and very knowledgeable. The driver Fabricio was also excellent. I really enjoyed the bizcocho breakfast stop and the mini-hike at volcanic laguna. It was nice to wander the Otavalo market, but the leather town didn't do much for me. Overall it was a nice day and a great way to see places outside of Quito that I couldn't get to otherwise.
Through G Adventures
Guide06667694535,Jan 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great day experience, good communication and driver.
Otavalo very pretty
CLAUDIAMARIA C,Jan 19, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Tour to otavalo was very good a little away from Quito. Our jeanini guide was a beautiful, careful, calm driver, highly recommended.
Filipe was very...
Joseph S,Jan 12, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Filipe was very knowledgeable and shared his vast experience with us. We would do another tour with him
Market tour
txexgirl,Dec 27, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Saraí was a great guide! She gave us such great information. I really enjoyed the market. I highly recommend this tour!!
Great day trip
Coastal68437686734,Dec 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great day trip with a small group. Guide allowed us to customize trip to what we wanted to see. Main market was full of local products. Had an interesting lunch prepared by indigenous people. Total fee was 56 dollars.
Best Guide you can find in Quito
ShekoSusan K,Nov 29, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00This was the best day I had in the Quito area. Felipe was an amazing guide and tailored the day so I could select preferences and timing. As a private tour I saw so much more and it was both a beautiful and fascinating day. Felipe has a wealth of knowledge about historic, economic and natural phenomenon. I was impressed and would do it again if I could.
Fantastic nice trip - recommended
Ingrid E,Nov 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Experiential tour to Otavalo market and Cotacathi. Nice nature and cultural experiences. Several interesting stops along the way. Knowledgeful and nice guide. Recommended!!
From US$69.00
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Operated by CarpeDM Adventures