An Insider's Guide To Otavalo Ecuador

Otavalo—just two hours north of Quito, Ecuador—is a beautiful, quiet town with springtime weather year-round. It’s mostly known for its famous market in Plaza de Ponchos but it has so much more to offer. Learn more about the neat features available in this town.

Haciendas

With many former haciendas (estates) turned into hostels, Otavalo and its newly-formed hostels have stunning views with orchards, llamas, and chimney cabins where travelers can stay and enjoy quiet time.

Peguche Waterfall

Parties

Otavalo’s holidays, known as Fiestas del Yamor, are well known around the country and for good reason: the fun-loving spirit of Otavalenos and their cultural songs and dance are perfect components for a great party. The Inti Raymi is another big holiday celebrated by indigenous communities in Ecuador and a must-see. In Otavalo it is celebrated during the summer solstice.

Heritage

Otavalenos are immensely proud of their culture. Their attire—known across the country and abroad—is a clear example of that pride. The community has been an engine when it comes to the arts and bringing it to a world stage. The town’s many festivals, markets, and tours can give you a glimpse into this fascinating culture.

Mojanda

Mojanda is a spectacular nature site located approximately 10 miles from Otavalo. It consists of two inactive volcanoes (one most popularly known as Mountain Fuya Fuya) and beautiful turquoise lakes. Travelers visiting Mojanda can hike, bicycle, kayak, or camp. Tours from Otavalo are available as well. A waterfall called Cascada de Taxopamba is also nearby. Travelers can also hire a taxi to the entrance of this protected area from Otavalo, for a flat rate of about $4 USD.

Parque del Cóndor

This park is a rescue center for several species, including the condor, Ecuador’s national bird. Stunning panoramic views from the park include views of Imbabura Volcano in the northeast and Cotacachi Volcano in the northwest.

Mirador El lechero

Mirador El Lechero is a lookout spot, whose tree at the top of the hill is considered sacred. While unknown to many people, this quiet spot offers magnificent views of the surrounding area.

Guardar

landscape with balloons floating in the air

KEEN TO EXPLORE THE WORLD?

Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local insiders and with care for the world

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.