Visit Otavalo
- Handicraft
- Art & Culture
- Essential
Otavalo: How to get there?
1 hour 30 minutes by bus from QuitoOtavalo: When to go?
Saturdays from June to SeptemberOtavalo: For how long?
One dayLearn more about your destination
See travel guide
Otavalo Vacations
Lying 55 kilometres north of Quito, Otavalo is the tourist capital of Ecuador. It's the place where the most famous, attractive and colourful market in the whole country is held.
Otavalo: What to see in the surroundings?
What our travelers think about their stay
Otavalo is famous for its Saturday market. It's an unmissable opportunity to meet and explore the Quechua culture during a trip to Ecuador.
My suggestion
Get to Plaza Poncho early to get the best prices. Stay for lunch and try "la fritada" a typically Quechua dish.
Otavalo is home to the biggest market in Ecuador and one of the most important in South America. Although there are markets every day, the highlight is Saturday.
My suggestion
If you do want to be there for a Saturday market, arrive a day or two in advance so that you can find a place to stay. If you want to avoid hordes of tourists, go there during the week. There's still loads to see!
Lying 55 kilometres north of Quito, Otavalo is the tourist capital of Ecuador. It's the place where the most famous, attractive and colourful market in the whole country is held.
My suggestion
The market takes place every Saturday. However, I strongly advise you to arrive the evening before and stay overnight so that you can be amongst the first there the next day.
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