Otavalo

Ecuador, South America

Otavalo is renowned for its vibrant indigenous culture and the famous Otavalo Market, one of South America's largest artisan markets. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local traditions, explore stunning textile works, and taste delicious traditional foods. Nearby, the breathtaking Cuicocha Lake and the surrounding Andes offer incredible hiking opportunities. With colorful festivals, rich history, and warm hospitality, Otavalo presents an authentic Ecuadorian experience that captivates every traveler.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-3 days

Type

Town

Vibe

Other

Airport

Mariscal Sucre

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

7 Best Things to Do in Otavalo

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Otavalo Market

Visit one of the largest artisan markets in South America.

No booking required
2

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike Cuicocha Crater Lake

Trek around a stunning volcanic crater lake.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Peguche Waterfall

Enjoy a serene waterfall surrounded by nature.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Learn about Indigenous Culture

Discover the rich history of Otavalo's indigenous people.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Try Local Cuisine

Savor traditional dishes like locro and cuy.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Otavalo's Textile Workshops

See artisans create beautiful textiles by hand.

No booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend the Animal Market

Experience the vibrant local livestock trading scene.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Included in bill

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

3 (#44 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

US Dollar

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Encebollado

Fish stew with yuca and onions (National dish)

Ceviche

Citrus-marinated seafood dish

Llapingachos

V

Potato patties served with peanut sauce

Hornado

Roasted pork with crispy skin

Seco de Chivo

Goat stew with spices and beer

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)