Ecuador · Culture

Full-Day Otavalo Tour from Quito with Market and Cuicocha Lake

1 Day Round trip from Quito Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Explore Otavalo Market, one of South America's most famous indigenous markets for vibrant textiles, crafts, and local artwork
  • 02 Discover the serene beauty of Cuicocha, a stunning crater lake with scenic trails and breathtaking Andean views
  • 03 Visit the picturesque Peguche Waterfall and enjoy a refreshing hike through lush greenery
  • 04 Immerse yourself in the rich Indigenous culture of the region through local traditions, music, and gastronomy
  • 05 Enjoy a scenic drive through the Andean highlands with panoramic views of valleys, mountains, and traditional Ecuadorian villages

Discover Otavalo's vibrant culture and stunning landscapes on a day tour from Quito. Visit the famous Otavalo Market, renowned for its colourful textiles and handicrafts, explore the tranquil shores of Cuicocha Lake nestled in a volcanic crater, and marvel at the picturesque Peguche Waterfall. Immerse yourself in Ecuadorian indigenous culture and enjoy panoramic views of the Andes Mountains on this enriching excursion to Otavalo and its surroundings.

Discover Otavalo's vibrant culture and stunning landscapes on a day tour from Quito.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 1 Day
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Not included
Transport Included
Cities Quito, Otavalo, Cotacachi, Imbabura Volcano
Languages English, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Otavalo Market, Peguche Waterfall and Cuicocha Lake

Morning:

  • Departure from Quito: Leave Quito early for a scenic drive north towards Otavalo.
  • Panoramic View: Enjoy views of Imbabura Volcano and San Pablo Lake.
  • Peguche Waterfall: Continue to Peguche Waterfall, where you can take a short hike through the lush forest to reach this picturesque waterfall. Enjoy the serene ambience and take in the natural beauty.
  • Otavalo Market: Arrive at Otavalo Market, one of the largest indigenous markets in South America. Explore stalls filled with vibrant textiles, jewellery, and handicrafts. Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere and interact with local artisans.

Midday:

  • Lunch not included in Otavalo: Enjoy a traditional Ecuadorian lunch at a local restaurant, sampling delicious Andean cuisine.

Afternoon:

  • Cuicocha Lake: Visit Cuicocha, a stunning crater lake located nearby. Take a guided hike along the lake's edge or explore the viewpoints for panoramic vistas of the surrounding Andean mountains.
  • Cotacachi Town: Visit Cotacachi Town.
  • Return to Quito: Depart from Otavalo in the late afternoon, returning to Quito. Reflect on the day's experiences and enjoy the scenic drive through the Andean highlands.
Otavalo Market, Cuicocha Lake, Peguche Waterfall

Where this trip takes you

Otavalo Market, Cuicocha Lake, Peguche Waterfall

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Quito 4 cities · 1 Day

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Private tourist transportation
  • Bilingual guide/driver (English and Spanish)
  • Entrance to the Peguche Waterfall

What's Not Included

  • Food
  • Tips
  • Entrance to Cuicocha Natural Reserve
  • Unspecified details

What to bring

  • Wear light clothing in layers and bring a sweater for the return, walking shoes, glasses, water, a cap, a rain poncho, or additional clothing in case you get wet in the Pailón del Diablo.
  • Bring a copy or photo of your passport.

Know before you go

  • We need to know your location in Quito for the pick-up.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Quito, Ecuador
Tour start
Quito, Ecuador
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 1 day finishes where it began, in Quito.

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