Discover Ecuador’s most vibrant indigenous culture in a full-day journey through markets, lakes, volcanoes, and artisan towns.

This tour operates on: Tuesday and Saturday.
Departure: 07:10 AM from Quito from plaza Foch or 7:30 San Blas Square.
Minimum: 1 participant (shared basis, subject to availability).

This full-day cultural tour takes you through the heart of the Ecuadorian Andes, offering a rich mix of indigenous markets, volcanic landscapes, artisan communities, and breathtaking highland views. You’ll visit one of South America’s largest and most famous indigenous markets in Otavalo, explore pre-Hispanic solar temples, crater lakes, and Andean towns known for their unique craftsmanship in textiles, leather, and agriculture. Perfect for travelers interested in culture, tradition, and scenic beauty, this tour brings you face to face with the heritage of Ecuador’s highlands.

• 07:10 AM – Departure from Quito
• Stop at Quitsato Solar Clock (Equator line, Cayambe)
• Traditional coffee & biscuit tasting at a local bakery
• Scenic stop at San Pablo Lake viewpoint
• Arrival at Otavalo Market (La Plaza de los Ponchos)
• 2 hours of free time to explore and shop
  Visit to Cotacachi – leather goods market (approx. 45 min)
• Panoramic Visit to Cuicocha Crater Lagoon (3,068 m)
• Short walk and photo opportunities
• Lunch included
• Return to Quito (estimated arrival: ~6:00 PM)

Departure from Quito at 07:10 AM – We will travel north via the Pan-American Highway, exploring several cultural and scenic sites along the way. Quitsato Solar Clock – Cayambe: Our first stop is at 2,833 m (9,294 ft) at a pre-Hispanic astronomical site built to mark the equinoxes and solstices. The equator line passes directly through this site, located at the base of Cayambe Volcano. Learn about the indigenous understanding of astronomy and Andean cosmology. Then, enjoy a short coffee/chocolate break with locally made “bizcochos”, a traditional oven-baked biscuit, and visit a local bakery to see the preparation process. Before reaching Otavalo, we stop at a scenic viewpoint overlooking San Pablo Lake with the Imbabura Volcano in the background — a perfect photo opportunity.

Next, we arrive at La Plaza de los Ponchos, the heart of Otavalo, known for its vibrant market of handmade textiles, jewelry, instruments, and traditional crafts. (2 hours approx. free to explore and shop.) We visit on market days (Tuesday & Saturday), when all artisans gather and the plaza is at its most vibrant. Cotacachi – Leather Town A small Andean town renowned for its fine leatherwork. You'll find high-quality bags, belts, jackets, and accessories. (Stop: approx. 45 minutes) Cuicocha Crater Lagoon Our final stop is the Cuicocha Lagoon, located at 3,068 m (10,065 ft). This stunning volcanic crater lake features two central islets and is surrounded by unique flora. Enjoy the peaceful setting and panoramic views before heading back to Quito. After a day full of culture, landscapes, and shopping, we return to Quito in the late afternoon.

SHARING BASIS

English speaking guide

Authorized tourist transportation

Menu-style lunch

Entry permits to protected areas

Extra meals or drinks

Snacks

Tips or gratuities

Wire transfer fees

$5 Quitsato Entrance fee p/p

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Light jacket (weather in the highlands can vary)
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat
• Reusable water bottle
• Cash for shopping at markets