Otavalo Unveiled: A Day Journey Through Time and Tradition!
5.0
17 Ratings
Quito
Embark on a captivating journey through time and tradition in Otavalo, Ecuador. Discover the vibrant culture, art, and nature that make this town a must-visit destination.
Duration:
9 hours
Cancellation:
1 day
learn more
Highlights
- Go F.A.R. Project Ecuador - 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
What's Included
- Professional guide
- Lunch
- Private Transport
What's Not Included
- What’s Not Included:
- Additional Snacks / Beverages
- TIPS
- Breakfast
Additional Information
Situated at the core of South America, just a couple of hours north from Quito, you’ll find the mysterious town of Otavalo. It’s no ordinary town; it’s a vibrant hub of culture, art, and nature. Recognized throughout the continent for holding the largest Indian handicraft market, Otavalo is much more than a trading center. It’s a canvas of vivid hues, elaborate woodcraft, and expert weaving.
Aside from the bustling stands and the constant hum of haggling, the character of Otavalo lies in its stunning scenery. Grand mountain ranges, tranquil lakes, and pristine nature parks encompass this town; hushed tales of ancient Indian settlements swirl in the wind. Otavalo is not simply a place to visit, it’s an adventure, an expedition into the depths of a region untouched by time.
- What to bring:
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Extra snacks and water
- Face masks
- Hand sanitizer
Location
Go F.A.R. Project Ecuador
Los Rios
Right Next to Secret Garden Hostel - If you are staying in the New Town Mariscal, we also have a meeting point at Hilton Colon - 7.30am at 7.45am - just let us know upon booking which you prefer.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
5.0
(17 Ratings)
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Erics786
Mar 21, 2024
A great tour to and around Otavalo - We had an excellent day with Lincoln! His local expertise and pleasant personality really made our tour a high point of our stay in Quito. He was able to give us insights we would have otherwise missed.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
B2206xmlisak
Jul 28, 2023
A full day taking in the sights with a great guide - So many places to visit along the way. We never felt rushed and Alejandro was happy to answer any questions in addition to his fantastic commentary. My son and I felt very lucky to have such a wonderful guide who was enthusiastic and knowledgeable. We were able to take our time and enjoy every moment
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Trip17363383000
May 20, 2023
Stefy is Amazing! - Estefania was so friendly and incredibly knowledgeable. She was flexible on the itinerary to better fit our interests. She is passionate about the communities and shares that with her tourists.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Mad33london
Jan 29, 2023
Amazing day in Otavalo - A day to remember with our great and fun guide Nathalie. She is local speaking quicha with french ancestors! A perfect guide to show us the jewel that is Otovalo market! The drive went quickly with several stops on the way and a delicious local lunch on our way back. One of the highlight of our trip in Quito. A MUST do. Saturday is the best day. Carpe Dm was very profesional and easy to deal with. We booked as a private tour which was great as we were able to practise our spanish with Nathalie. Thank you !!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Madaugh13
Oct 8, 2022
Private Day Tour: A+!!!! - I learned about CarpeDM tours from Lonely Planet. I was immediately impressed with their email responses as we wanted a day tour to Otavolo. Our guide Lincoln was superb! He picked us up from our hotel on time, spent the entire day driving us to special locations including a hot chocolate and biscuit cafe, the equator, and famous market. We also had a special request of empanadas which he made possible. Well worth the price for a private tour because Lincoln welcomed questions and is clearly passionate and knowledgeable about Ecuador. When I return to Quito, I will enjoy another tour! Gracias, Lincoln!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Angelacc7248xk
Jun 20, 2022
A Day Trip to Remember - This trip was such a great experience and a fun way to learn more about the local nature, history and culture. Highlights included haggling at the market, enjoying bizcochos with cheese and caramel and the hike at the national park. Alejandro was our guide and he did a fantastic job of keeping us engaged and answering our questions about Ecuador's plants, animals, and history. Alejandro's energetic positivity and patience with our attempts at Spanish really made the entire trip a truly special experience for all of us!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
U2611xrgiorgiam
Mar 16, 2022
Otavalo - Alejandro wonderfull guide very prepared answering all possible question about geography, culture, economic, politic of Ecuador
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Ilimaace
Dec 9, 2021
Highly recommended - We had such a great experience from start to finish! Our guide, Alejandro was extremely knowledgeable and answered all our questions pertaining to tour activities, history, and even helped us figure out a plan for the remainder of the week. Thank you!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Heather_m
Oct 27, 2021
Waterfalls, Music and Markets! - CarpeDm tours was a great company, and I enjoyed the day, even though I was the only one on the tour ! I enjoyed the stops at the market, the hike at Peguche Waterfalls, the music shop, the lunch, etc. It was a nice day out of Quito, and my guide and driver were terrific! The hotel pickup was included, too. Definitely take this tour for a day outside of the city!
Review provided by Viator
Sarahann868
Jun 24, 2021
Cuicocha worth a visit - John Pierre was a really great guide. The market was nice, but I’d recommend trying to spend more time at Cuicocha. We ran out of time to see Peguche waterfall, which would have been nice.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
