Otavalo Market & Equator

Tour languages: English & Spanish.

Average temperature: 7–19°C (45–66°F)
Expect mixed weather with bright sun and occasional clouds or light rain. The valley air can be windy, and conditions can change quickly.

Your day tour begins with an easy pick-up from the two main areas in Quito. Please look for our white tour bus at these locations:

1. 07:00 AM – Plaza Foch in front of Juan Valdez Café.
2. 07:15 AM – Plaza San Blas from Café Zular.

Note: We recommend taking a taxi to these locations. Your guide will be there to check you in and introduce the group.

Our first quick stop is at a gas station on the way out of the city. This is the perfect time to use the ATM for market cash, buy water, or grab any last-minute snacks you might need for the ride.

We visit a local factory to see how bizcochos (buttery biscuits) are baked in a wood oven. There will be free samples for you to try. If you are hungry, you can buy a traditional breakfast here with cheese (queso de hoja), caramel (manjar), and hot chocolate.

Next, we visit the Quitsato Sundial. You can stand exactly on the Equator line and visit their small museum to learn how the sun was used as a giant clock. It is a great spot for photos!

We take a short break at a viewpoint to see Lake San Pablo and the Imbabura Volcano. Your guide will explain the history of the area before we arrive at the market.

Spend about 2 hours at the world-famous Otavalo market. You can walk through the colorful stalls to find handmade blankets, sweaters, and art. It is the perfect place to buy gifts and meet the local people.

We head further into the mountains to Lake Cuicocha, a beautiful blue lake inside a volcano. You can take a relaxed walk along the lakeside trails and enjoy the fresh Andean air.

We stop for an Ecuadorian lunch (included) with a starter, main course, and a drink. Please let us know about dietary restrictions in your booking.

Our final stop is Cotacachi, a town famous for high-quality leather goods. You can explore the shops for jackets and bags. We also make a quick stop to see Alpacas up close for photos.

We head back to Quito, arriving between 5:30 PM and 6:30 PM at our original meeting points.

• Heading elsewhere? If you are going to another destination, let our guide know. We can drop you off at a public transport point or arrange a private transfer.