The Rungis food market outside Paris is the largest of its kind in the world, and caters to many high-end French restaurants in France. Otavalo Market Discover the beautiful and unique Otavalo indigenous market with us. A lot of hand-made goods can be purchased here, perfect for souvenirs and unique home decorations. It’s always awkward to negotiate and then ask for change after handing them a large bill! Practice making disbelieving faces in front of the mirror, walking away, and rejecting the first several prices. It can be cheaper than a tour – especially if you have more than one person in your group – and is a fun way to explore the many towns and parks around Quito on your own time. Otavalo is the Imbabura province This city is very famous for tourist. Otavalo is world-famous for its indigenous population, the so-called Otavalos, many of which are travelling around the world to sell their famous handicrafts or play in Andean Folk music groups. Of course, you know that Panama hats are really made in Ecuador. The tour ends in Quito around 5 pm. If you drove a rental car, don’t leave anything in your car and remember to lock it. It’s a country that sits on the Equator, has a history that dates back thousands of years to the Incan Empire, is home to the highest capital city in the world, the imposing mountaintops of the Andes, the famous Cotopaxi volcano, the dense jungles and mysterious cloud forests in Mindo, the steamy Papallacta hot springs and the crystal blue Quilotoa Lake. The town of Otavalo is just two hours away from Quito. The crater of Cotacachi volcano is now a lake called Cuicocho, or Lake of the Gods. Located in a small, unassuming mountain town outside of Quito, Otavalo is known around the world as the home of the largest market in South America. As I mentioned, some of the things are knock-offs or low quality. The town is really small, so your ride won’t take more than 5-10 minutes. Look for Otavalo embroidered shirts, carved wooden parrots, or textiles and tapestries. Location . In Ecaudor, I was really interested in learning more about their traditions and visiting some of the places that were important to them. The entire town changes into big market on each Saturday. And coming into town, you’d never guess that this sleepy town out of the way from the other things to do in Ecuador is home to the largest market in South America. The market sells everything from blankets and ponchos to jewelry, instruments, leather goods, platters, spices and more. Located north of Quito, this is one of the biggest indigenous markets in Latin America. Otavalo market is located within easy driving distance two hours north of Quito. It is surrounded by the peaks of Imbabura (4,630 metres (15,190 ft)), Cotacachi (4,995 metres (16,388 ft)), and Mojanda volcanoes. Famous for its spectacular Saturday market, the community of Otavalo retains many cultural traditions that indigenous Otavaleños have practiced since the Pre-Colombian era. He set up a weaving workshop, using the Otavaleño Indians, already skilled weavers, as the workforce. Where Did Panama Hats Originate? Any search for “things to do in Ecuador” will pull up dozens of day trips to the Otavalo market. How to Arrive. Otavalo Ecuador Elevation. El Indio is a small family-run hotel located a half block from the famous Otavalo market. The advantage of staying overnight before the market is getting there before tour groups arrive and prices tend to go up. Get cash and small bills before you go and put them in a few different pockets. Vendors take all the streets. Otavalo market is a must-see destination when visiting Ecuador. Otavalo is the Imbabura province This city is very famous for tourist. The celebrations date back to Inca rites of yamor occurring the two weeks before the solstice. To give yourself the most time at the Otavalo market, you should take the very first bus in the morning and return on one of the afternoon buses. The gas prices in Ecuador are some of the lowest in the world (the government raising the prices was actually the cause of the big riots that happened while I was there in 2019). The villages follow an ancient craft and supply many of the textiles sold in their own markets as well as in Otavalo. Hotels near Otavalo. The Otavalo Indigenous Market internationally known as "Plaza de Ponchos", allows you to look and buy a wide variety of handcrafted products made here. Located in Imbabura Province of Ecuador, the Otavalo Market is home to the indigenous Otavaleño people, famous for weaving textiles of wool and selling them in the market, known to locals as the Plaza de los Ponchos. After this, discover the Peguche Waterfall , located 0.9 miles (1.5 km) from the village of Peguche, and 2 miles (3.3 km) from the city of Otavalo. But, you’ll find that you get a rush of excitement and pride after your first successful deal. It’s become insanely popular as one of the must see attractions in Northern Ecuador. Largely destroyed in the Hike around the area. There are several excellent restaurants and hotels around Lago San Pablo that provide a picturesque alternative to Otavalo, and is located just ten minutes south of Otavalo. Otavalo offers a plethora of places to stay. A quick trip by car or bus from our hostal. The city center is located at 8345 feet (2543 meters) above sea level. It's expected and once you get the hang of it, fun. You can always ask your taxi driver in the morning for his WhatsApp and give him a little tip to ensure you have a ride taken care of in advance! Ecuadorian textiles are world-famous for their quality and history. Its name comes from the Kichwa indigenous language and means “Lago del Cuy” or Guinea Pig Laguna in English. You can see some of the techniques in the demonstrations at the Obraje Weaving Museum. Whenever you go, do bargain. The weather in Otavalo, Ecuador is close to 60F (15C)degrees year-round, due to its proximity to the Equator and elevation of 8,345 feet (2,543 m) above sea level. The area was densely settled by the Otavalo Indians prior to its conquest by the Incas and became a Spanish-controlled settlement in the 16th century. The wares at the Otavalo market are a testament to their craft. Don’t blame me if you want to start negotiating for everything after that! Just here to share my travels, spread happiness and take lots of pictures along the way. It’s an easy day trip from Quito and will show you a whole different side of Ecuador. The Otavalos are considered the economically most successful indigenous group … Cuicocha Lagoon + Otavalo Market Cuicocha is a 3 km wide caldera and crater lake at the foot of Cotacachi Volcano in the Cordillera Occidental of the Ecuadorian Andes. And, because of it’s worldwide fame, it’s really easy to get to on your own. There are buses departing from the Carcelén bus terminal in Quito to Otavalo, Ecuador every day. If you’re staying in Quito, it’s a 40-minute drive from the airport. The wares at the Otavalo market are a testament to their craft. Here are some of the other things to do in Otavalo – or nearby: A self-guided day trip from Quito to Otavalo, Ecuador could easily include a walk around the Otavalo market, a visit to the nearby leather market in Cotacachi, a hike around Cuicocha Lake and maybe even a stop at the pyramids later in the day. Don't leave the area without seeing San Pablo, Mojanda, and Yahuarcocha lakes. Of the capital Quito, located in the streets Sucre and Salinas 12-14. Afterwards, delve into the Otavalo Market and cherish the fantastic hand-made artisan crafts by the Kichwa people, and by other ethnic groups that come here to sell their goods. I've known for awhile now I want to embark on a bike ride of epic proportions. Cows, pigs, bulls, alpaca, horses, and chickens can all be found at this EXTREMELY local venue. Thank you for being a part of it. But you do need to watch out for petty theft and robbery. Visit with Miguel Andrango Master of the Loom Otavaleño weaver, for a description of his trade, then go to Cotacachi for leather goods, and to San Antonio for woodcarvings, picture frames, and hand-crafted furniture. It’s a great way to see the market in all its glory. Within the city of Otavalo, you can take a taxi almost anywhere for $1.25. Companies tend to raise the prices and tell you they are short on cars – or simply know you’re from out of town – if you show up in person. Located in the bustling city of Quito, Otavalo Market is one of the main attractions in town. Ecuador is a South American country located in the northeastern part. (110 km.) Your email address will not be published. Late afternoon return to Quito, with a stop at the Equator en route. The crafts fair takes place every day of the week, with Saturday the most important also has many places to visit such as LAGUNA SAN PABLO The beautiful lagoon of San Pablo is located 3 Km. Has anyone gone to the Otavalo market on a day other than Saturday? If you walk away because they don’t meet your price, the vendor will probably chase after you. Located in a small, unassuming mountain town outside of Quito, Otavalo is known around the world as the home of the largest market in South America. Otavalo Market, locally known as Plaza de los Ponchos and Centenario Market is one of the largest indigenous market in Latin America. If so, how was the experience, are there still a lot of vendors and artisans, and would… Has anyone gone to the Otavalo market on a day other than Saturday? The history of the textiles goes back to Spanish colonial days when the land around Quito was granted to various people, including one Rodrigo de Salazar who had the grant at Otavalo. Bonnie is a freelance writer born and raised in South America who has covered the continent for 11 years. from the north of Quito, Ecuador — about a two-hour bus drive. After this, discover the Peguche Waterfall , located 0.9 miles (1.5 km) from the village of Peguche, and 2 miles (3.3 km) from the city of Otavalo. Ecuador! Men wear their long hair in braids and their clothes include white trousers, ponchos, and sandals. One thing we learned is that if your are not starting your northern Ecuador road trip in Quito, that Otavalo is the perfect central point for many of the places to visit. Hacienda Zuleta created the Otavaleño cashmere and created a worldwide market for its textile products. Located within easy driving distance, two hours north of Quito, there are many day trips available. Otavalo Market: Animal Located on the far side of town is the animal market. Just remember to give yourself plenty of time to find a cab and return to the station in the afternoon. What to bring: Sunscreen Hat – Sunglasses Refillable … And most of the prices at street vendors and small shops are negotiable. If you're going to Ecuador, either alone or with a tour, one of your destinations is sure to be Otavalo. Largely destroyed in the 1868 earthquake, the town has since been rebuilt. Both of us felt safe and didn’t feel the need to do anything other than what I listed here. Cuicocha Lagoon + Otavalo Market | Full Day Trek. If you're not sure you can dicker over the price, rehearse your technique ahead of time. Otavalo Market Prices. Spread happiness wherever I go. Traveling throughout South America, safety is always a concern. The nearby villages of Peguche, San Jose de la Bolsa, Selva Alegre, Cotama, Agato, and Iluman villages are famous for their textiles. Located in Imbabura Province of Ecuador, the Otavalo Market is home to the indigenous Otavaleño people, famous for weaving textiles of wool and selling them in the market, known to locals as the Plaza de los Ponchos. It's best to allow several days to see not only the famous market in Otavalo but to visit the nearby villages. The villages follow an ancient craft and supply many of the textiles sold in their own markets as well as in Otavalo. You might be in time for the Fiesta del Yamor, celebrated every year to give thanks at the second solstice. The indigenous Market of Otavalo is the most colorful and popular market in South America, you can find a lot of textiles, souvenir, fruits, local food, and many interesting things. The market is open every day but if you can make it on a Saturday, you get a chance to visit the livestock market too. This town is only two hours from Quito, approximately 90km (56 miles) away, so if you are looking to go from Quito, you can go there on a day trip. There are many day trips available, but it's better to allow several days to see not only the famous market in Otavalo, but to visit the nearby villages, where villages follow an ancient craft and supply many of the textiles sold in their own markets as well as in Otavalo. The scenery around the town is picturesque as they are enriched with a mixture of Indian … Otavalo market is a must-see destination when visiting Ecuador. The indigenous Market of Otavalo is the most colorful and popular market in South America, you can find a lot of textiles, souvenir, fruits, local food, and many interesting things. Otavalo, town, north-central Ecuador, in the highlands of the Andes Mountains at an elevation of 8,441 feet (2,573 metres). The wares at the Otavalo market are a testament to their craft. I've known for even longer that I want to do something meaningful with life, something that really impacts people. From the North: You can make a stop over in Otavalo in your border crossing from Colombia. It has about 50.000 inhabitants and is the capital of the district of the same name. The Otavalo Market day tour is a wonderful way to discover and combine the famous artesian indigenous market in Ecuador and some of the amazing views outside Otavalo. But we still got to spent a few hours at the market, hike in Cuicocha National Park and make back to the hotel by 9:00 p.m. Our room was a bit cold, but the blankets kept us warm at night. Here were some of my favorite things that I saw – and bought! It is located in Imbabura Province of Ecuador.According to the 2010 census, the town has 39,354 inhabitants and has an elevation of 2,532 metres (8,307 ft). After we tour the Otavalo market of Ecuador we will continue to the Cuicocha crater lake. But, if you make a lap around the plaza, you’ll begin to spot some of the authentic artisan goods. Located just a 2 hour drive north of Quito, a visit to Otavalo is an easy day trip away.However, if you want to truly experience all that the small city has to offer, make sure you plan to stay a while. It’s a busy market and there will be a lot of people trying to get back to Quito at the same time. Otavalo's market is legendary, but it shouldn't be the only reason you come to this charming Andean minicity. How to Arrive. The roads are very well kept and the roads are clearly marked. Otavalo, capital of Otavalo Canton, has a population largely made up of the Otavalo indigenous group. Most of the things are still handmade by the indigenous people who live in the nearby villages and have passed down their craft for decades. It was hard for me to believe that a small place so far away from the capital would attract so many people. So, that will save you the cost of a taxi or bus and will ensure you get the best price. It is located in the Imbabura province in the Otavalo district. The local public bus will take you there. Just before going back to Quito, we’ll pass through the viewpoint of Lago San Pablo. Wear a backpack to the front of your body and put your purse across your body if you can. Its main attraction is the Peguche waterfall, located inside the Protected Forest of Peguche. Afterwards, we’ll have lunch, and then visit the beautiful Laguna Cuicocha, which is located in a volcano crater. It’s mostly indigenous inhabitants would once have made a living farming the surrounding lands, but the town’s economy now centers on its world-famous textile and crafts market. Otavalo market is a market located in Ecuador. After the factory was shut down, a group of locals purchased the land and have since reclaimed the factory and its grounds as a living museum and community space for the … — Otavalo is known as the "Intercultural Capital Ecuador" due to its diversity. This town is only two hours from Quito, approximately 90km (56 miles) away, so if you are looking to go from Quito, you can go there on a day trip. Located in a valley in Imbabura, Otavalo is also a great base to visit the surrounding lakes, mountains, and villages. I'm not sure where exactly this will take me, but I do know this: I want to focus on the human experience - giving words to other people's stories & helping them in a way that benefits them, with no expectation of anything in return. Please be advised: approximate hours, subject to change because of weather conditions. Visitors can walk in the middle of thousands of tapestries, ponchos, thick hand-woven wool bags, hats, gloves, scarves, embroidered blouses, the famous belts used as belts by the natives, shigras, dresses and much more, all this colorful product are mostly made with wool, … It is an indigenous market where you can find a great variety of woven textiles, paintings, wood carving and many more hand-made souvenirs to bring back home. The main market day in Otavalo is on Saturday; however this tour can operate throughout the week. The Otavalo market is very much the public face of the region's craft industry – but it's not its entirety. The people in this region have been weavers and artisans since before Incan times. The Otavalo handicraft market is one of the nicest in all of Latin America with art products unknown anywhere else in South America. Has anyone gone to the Otavalo market on a day other than Saturday? The driver will stop at the main bus station in town and then you’ll need to get a taxi (around $1) to the market. Many people come to Otavalo to visit the market, but the city and surrounding area is also home to the Peguche Waterfall, Lagos de Mojanda, and Museo Viviente Otavalango. Otavalo is located in Imbabura province, 86 km north of Quito, this town is now one of the most important tourist destinations of Ecuador, surrounded by mountains, lakes, rivers, streams and springs make this small city a paradise where you always return. Azadpur Fruit and Vegetable Market. Located in a valley in Imbabura, Otavalo is also a great base to visit the surrounding lakes, mountains, and villages. Vendors take all the streets. The family is lovely, the breakfast is adequate, & the beds comfortable. As a result, there are more hotels, hostels, and tour … I recommend renting a car in the Quito at the airport by reserving it in advance and picking it up when you get to Ecuador. Something that is a bit more off the beaten path. We really had no business at all venturing over here… And unless you’re looking to buy, sell, or trade animals with Otavalian farmers you probably don’t either. The market is open every day but if you can make it on a … These are “market days,” and there are usually more vendors. The town has become a tourist center and it has brought more visitors. The local people have become famous for their textiles and crafts. The area was densely settled by the Otavalo Indians prior to its conquest by the Incas and became a Spanish-controlled settlement in the 16th century. The busiest market day is Saturday, but the markets in Otavalo are open every day. These Otavalo Market photos are slow to download, but worth the wait for a look at market activity. Where is the best place to stay near Otavalo Animal Market? Cuicocha Lake. If you enjoyed this post, don't forget to share it! It is situated in a valley surrounded by Cotacachi, Mojanda and Imbabura volcanoes. Figure out what it takes to bicycle around the world - gear, routes, bicycles, etc. Otavalo Valley in the Ecuadorian Andes near the Cuicocha caldera This disambiguation page lists articles associated with the title Otavalo. 2. It is located in the Imbabura province in the Otavalo district. Do you need to worry about this elevation? Hotels and Restaurants in Otavalo. Las Cascadas de Peguche. from the north of Quito, Ecuador — about a two-hour bus drive. If an internal link led you here, you may wish to change the link to point directly to the intended article. This is my little project in this big world. The downside of this economic success was that the Otavaleños were sometimes forced to labor at the looms in a system called Obraje. Here’s a few recommendations on what to bring with you on a small back pack: Money: We recommend you bring small bills to pay for the entrances and tips. The real fun is on Saturday when the market spills over onto nearby streets, and locals from across the region come to make their purchases, but even on a Tuesday there is still plenty to see, and buy! Market in Otavalo. Cheap imports aside, there was no question about whether it should be on my list of things to do while I was in Quito. Otavalo is located 110 kilometers north of the city of Quito. Most of the things to do in Ecuador are not particularly dangerous places by Ecuadorian standards. If you’re looking for a convenient place to stay, check out the 28 hotels and other accommodations you’ll find within a mile. Don’t overlook the option of renting a car in Quito! The Otavalo market is about a two hour bus ride north of Quito. I still think that it’s such a great opportunity to try out your haggling skills, see some local artisan goods and, ahem, the largest market in South America. The local people have become famous for their textiles and crafts. Ecuador is a South American country located in the northeastern part. The town has become a tourist center and it has brought more visitors. In Otavalo market, prices vary depending on the stall, and the buyer – so expect to barter for your purchases. Around Otavalo is a string of villages that are noted for their individual skills. The Otavalo market is about a two hour bus ride north of Quito. But joining a tour could give you some unique insights into the history of the market and the culture of the indigenous people who have lived in the area since before the Spanish Inquisition. Once you get out of Quito, there’s really only one road that goes to Otavalo. If so, how was the experience, are there still a lot of vendors and artisans, and would… Hi there, we use cookies to improve your experience on our website. USEFUL INFO FOR YOUR OTAVALO MARKET DAY TOUR. It is the largest market in Ecuador and a great place to learn about people of the Andes. A visit to the Otavalo market is one of the most popular things to do in Ecuador. It is surrounded by enormous volcanoes: Cotacachi 4,995m, Imbabura 4,630m, and Mojanda 4263m. As a photographer and a touchy-feely person, I was in heaven! In the city center 15 meters from the famous Plaza de Ponchos. … I want to get updates on adventure travel! Otavalo market is located in an area that is made up of a farming community. You can wander from market to market, buy a meal from a vendor, wander the food and produce market, and consider the arts, crafts, and textiles before making a purchase at the artisan market. But you shouldn’t miss the chance to see South America’s largest market and some of these other things to do in Otavalo! You don’t have to buy a ticket in advance. Climate : Otavalo is located practically on the Equator and 2,700m (8,858 ft.) above sea level. Pause to think a little and consider the price. 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