Otavalo

Otavalo is a small town in the Imbabura province of Ecuador, famous for its indigenous market which is one of the largest and most colorful in South America. The market has been happening for centuries, and it's where local Otavaleños sell their intricate handwoven textiles, clothing, jewelry, and crafts. Saturdays are when the market is at its liveliest, filling the Plaza de Ponchos and spilling into surrounding streets.

Beyond the market, Otavalo is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. The town sits in a valley between the Imbabura and Cotacachi volcanoes, with the beautiful Cuicocha crater lake nearby. The landscape offers amazing hiking opportunities and breathtaking views that capture Ecuador's diverse geography.

The Otavaleño people have managed to preserve their cultural identity despite centuries of outside influence. Many still wear traditional clothing – men in white pants, ponchos and long braided hair, and women in embroidered blouses and dark skirts. Their Kichwa language is widely spoken alongside Spanish, and traditional music using instruments like the charango and pan pipes can often be heard throughout town.

The food scene in Otavalo offers authentic Ecuadorian flavors, from llapingachos (cheese-stuffed potato patties) to hornado (roast pork). Just a short drive from Quito, Otavalo makes for an excellent day trip or a longer stay to fully appreciate the region's rich cultural heritage and natural wonders.