Otavalo Market with Middle of the World (Sundial)
Explore one of the oldest indigenous markets in South America. Visit the other middle of the world in Ecuador. Stand on two hemispheres is just possible on the equator line. Learn more about the largest agave garden in South America. Discover the ancient techniques used by local artisans to weave ponchos, sweaters or blankets. Visit an artisan workshop where textiles are still made by hand. Walk by the incredible waterfall that was the site of ceremonies in ancient times. Otavalo market becomes the largest in america on Saturday.
ItineraryThis is a typical itinerary for this product
Pass By: Quito, Quito, Pichincha Province
Two hours of travel from Quito will be enough to reach out Otavalo city. As we drive north, we will take several first-order roads that will allow us to see an Andean scenery with variations due to its climate, altitude and especially its people. We will take several photos and admire the northern part of the well-known "Avenue of the volcanoes". Upon arrival, we will observe some enormous volcanoes which are consider sacred by the native people.
Stop At: Quitsato Sundial, Av 10 de Agosto, Cayambe 170202 Ecuador
Quitsato's Middle of the World is based on scientific concepts and research. Learn more about the equinoxes and solstices with Sundial explanation. It is an astronomical centre that investigates how ancestors used this knowledge in favor of the crops. Standing on two hemispheres is just possible in this place. Learn about the agricultural calendar and its relationship with it. Learn how indigenous people used the mountains to determinate the middle of the world.
Duration: 45 minutes
Stop At: Miralago, Panamericana Norte km3 Via Del Cajas-Otavalo, San Pablo Del Lago 100211 Ecuador
From this viewpoint, we observe the San Pablo lagoon. The lagoon is considered the largest one in Ecuador and is located at the foot of the Imbabura Volcano (15,190 feet). Also, it is time to take a break and taste a local biscuit called "biscocho" that will be served along with a leaf cheese and a delicious coffee or tea.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Otavalo Market, Plaza de los Ponchos, Otavalo 100450 Ecuador
In our eyes, the nice city of Otavalo appears. The majority of the population is indigenous which creates a good and unique atmosphere in this town. When, we are parking, our guide will give us useful guidelines so that we can discover more about the market. The dynamic and millenial market is popular in Ecuador and South America because it houses a wide range of textiles. The sale activity starts very early. A lot of vendors from the city of Otavalo show their works. The products that stand out are alpaca caps, sweaters, sheep caps, gloves, hats, tablecloths, blankets or sheep ponchos. However, you can also find saddlery, silver jewelry or wooden crafts.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Stop At: Cascada de Peguche, Via a Peguche, Peguche, Otavalo 100451 Ecuador
The Peguche waterfall is a magical place that will fill you with energy. This place is still a purification center for indigenous people on special dates such as the Sun festival. Besides, the waterfall represent; the origin and end of all things, associated with birth, it acomplishes with the function of dissolving, abolishing, purifying, washing, generating, fertilization, restore. It is the sap of life, contrary to death or dryness. The goddess venus arose from the waters. From the water, we created all living things.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Peguche Wasi, Av. Los Corazas # 3, Otavalo 100450 Ecuador
To complement the visit, we will go to visit a traditional workshop-store , where the tradition of weaving by hand on Spanish back looms is still being fought for. Here, you can be part of a demonstration of how wool was cleaned and produced before the arrival of the modern era, its dyeing using vegetable pigments that come from various plants or trees from the mountains and coast regions from Ecuador. Return to Quito.
Duration: 45 minutes
Informacion Adicional
"Wheelchair accessible"
"Near public transportation"
"Not recommended for travelers with back problems"
"Not recommended for pregnant travelers"
"No heart problems or other serious medical conditions"
"Most travelers can participate"
"This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund"
"This tour/activity will have a maximum of 9 travelers"
"Confirmation will be received at time of booking"
Hora de Inicio:
07:30 AM
Duración: 8 Hours
Lugar de comienzo: Traveler pickup is offered
We offer pick-up travellers from the Quito airport (No extra cost)
Airports- Mariscal Sucre Airport, Quito Ecuador
Cancelaciones y devoluciones:
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start time of the experience.
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