Otavalo Holidays

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.

Visit Otavalo

Art & Culture
Handicraft
Essential

Otavalo: How to get there?

1 hour 30 minutes by bus from Quito

Otavalo: See when to go?

Saturdays from June to September

Otavalo: For how long?

One day

Learn more about your destination

See travel guide

Otavalo: What to see nearby?

What our travellers think of their stay

Anonymous

Travel writer

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.

Anonymous

Travel writer

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!

David Debrincat

Travel writer

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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