Your Hotel pickup in Quito is scheduled between 8 am and 8:30 am, ensuring a prompt start to our overnight adventure packed full of activities for a complete cultural immersion. Ecuador has so much to offer in terms of handicrafts, interesting cuisine, and exciting markets, that we can’t help but add much more than “just” the Otavalo market to this tour.
Our first stop will be in Cayambe, where we’ll enjoy a sample of bizcochos (biscuits) and a hot drink, or perhaps a local alcoholic treat for the adults. This culinary experience will give you a taste of one of Ecuador's traditions and flavors. As we drive through the Ecuadorian Andes, you will be surrounded by picturesque landscapes with fertile valleys and stunning volcano views leading us to the next stop at the popular Mira Lago viewpoint. The viewpoint is located above San Pablo Lake which is considered the biggest water mirror of our Andes region. The presence of artisans' stands serves as a definitive marker, confirming your arrival in the heartland of Ecuador's most renowned artisans.
The bustling Otavalo Market awaits as the focal point of your adventure, offering ample time for exploration. Typically, our arrival coincides with midday, allowing for a leisurely late lunch, with opportunities to indulge in snacks available throughout the market. Here, vibrant textiles, intricate wooden handicrafts, shimmering silver pieces, household goods, and delightful treats beckon, inviting you to engage in the time-honored tradition of bargaining.
Your guide will provide recommendations for lunch, with typical meal options ranging from $10 to $15, or slightly more if you're inclined to try the local delicacy of guinea pig!
In the afternoon, you'll embark on three significant stops at some of Otavalo's finest artisans. First, at the Music House, you'll witness the craftsmanship of Andean instruments and experience the unique sounds they produce. Next, delve into the rich history of wool weaving at a traditional workshop, where you'll witness the meticulous process behind creating extraordinary pieces. Finally, immerse yourself in cultural exchange at a dreamcatcher workshop, where you'll discover Ecuador's adaptation of this indigenous craft, using natural resources to create unique designs. You'll even have the opportunity to try your hand at crafting your own dreamcatcher, a tangible symbol of cultural fusion.
The day concludes with check-in at your hotel in or near Otavalo, where you’re free to wander around and take some photos of local life in Ecuador, or sit back and enjoy a drink. Your guide will gladly suggest a selection of dining venues for your evening meal, ensuring a delightful culinary experience awaits.
