Is Otavalo worth visiting?
I was hesitant to spend a day on this but am glad that I did. We hired Dennis Yepez of Guanguiltagua Expeditions and he made the day worthwhile and fun. He picked us up at our hotel in Quito and we made many stops on the way to Otavalo.
How many days do you need in Otavalo?
Here is your Otavalo travel guide ready for your visit to Otavalo. We recommend you spend at least two days in and around this area to get the most of what is on offer here.
What time can you visit the Otavalo market?
7.00am to 6.00pm
You can visit Otavalo market all day, from 7.00am to 6.00pm.
What is sold at the Otavalo market?
The market sells everything from blankets and ponchos to jewelry, instruments, leather goods, platters, spices and more. Although it is huge tourist attraction, the Otavalo Market is a must-see for anyone visiting Ecuador.
How do I get to Otavalo market?
Most tourists travel from Quito to Otavalo by public bus. The trip takes about 2 hours and costs $2.50. At Quito’s Carcelén bus terminal take the Cooperativa Otavalo or the Cooperativa Los Lagos. Otavalo is located 110 kilometers north of the city of Quito.
Where is the Otavalo market and what day is it open?
If you aren’t able to visit on a Saturday, don’t worry – the market is open every day of the week within the Plaza de Ponchos with many vendors!
What is the Lake of the guinea pigs?
Cuicocha
Cuicocha (Kichwa: Kuykucha, “lake of guinea pigs” or Kuychikucha, “rainbow lake”) is a 3 km (2 mi) wide caldera and crater lake at the foot of Cotacachi Volcano in the Cordillera Occidental of the Ecuadorian Andes….
| Cuicocha | |
|---|---|
| Last eruption | 650 CE (?) |
What is the most popular dish in Ecuador?
Llapingachos. Llapingachos are one of Ecuador’s best known and most beloved dishes. They are potato patties made with cheese and cooked on a griddle until golden brown. Llapingachos are often served as a side, along with pork, such as chorizo, a fried egg, avocado, and salad.
What is a popular market to visit in Ecuador?
A visit to the Otavalo market is one of the most popular things to do in Ecuador. 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.
What Animals Can you buy at the Otavalo market?
Otavalo Animal Market Here you’ll find locals buying and selling all kinds of animals, including pigs, sheep, horses, rabbits, and even llamas. The guinea pigs, called “cuyes,” you’ll see for sale at the market aren’t for pets. Eating guinea pig is a local delicacy in Ecuador and Peru.
Where are Otavalos from?
northern Ecuador
The Otavalos are an indigenous people native to the Andean mountains of Imbabura Province in northern Ecuador. The Otavalos also inhabit the city of Otavalo in that province.
How do I get to cuicocha Lake?
HOW TO GET TO CUICOCHA LAKE. If you are staying in Otavalo, you will need to get a bus from the bus station to Quiroga (direction Cotacachi). Those are green busses with the writing Cotacachi on it. Easy to see.
