The tour begins with a scenic drive north of Quito through the Sierra highlands. Our first stop will be at Mitad del Mundo, and then we’ll continue to Cayambe, where we can taste and learn about the town’s famous bizcochos (local biscuits). From that point, we´ll continue to the famous market of Otavalo, where you’ll have the option to purchase local handicrafts. The main market day in Otavalo is on Saturdays; however, this tour can operate throughout the week (so on Tuesdays we will also visit the market). Our professional guide will provide an explanation on the indigenous people of this area, such as the Quitu, Cara and other pre-Inca groups, and give some information on the city.

Afterwards, we’ll have lunch, and then we’ll go to the beautiful Laguna Cuicocha, which is located in a volcanic crater and contains 2 green islands (optional sail is available for $2 USD). Just before going back to Quito, we’ll pass through the viewpoint of Lago San Pablo, to finish a perfect day. The visit to a work shop of wooden musical instruments is optional, depending on your what you’d like to do, and how much time we spend at the market.

We will return to Quito at 4:30pm.

07:00

Leave from “Magic Bean” (Juan Leon Mera and Foch, Quito) for transfer to Otavalo

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08:30

View point, from where it is possible to see Cayambe, Guayllamama, Quito, Cotopaxi, Tabcundo and flower farms

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09:00

Quitsato Mitad del Mundo (entrance $1 USD)

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09:30

Visit the Cayambe bizcochos (local biscuits) factory

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11:00

Explore Otavalo Market

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14:00

Cuicocha crater lake

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15:30

Cotacachi leather town

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16:30

Return to Quito

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- Professional and bilingual guide
- Lunch
- Transportation from/to Quito

- Quitsato entrance fee: $1 USD per person
- Tips
- Optional sail at Cuicocha Crater Lake for $2 USD per person
- Bizcochos in Cayambe
- Market purchases
- Personal expenses

- Warm clothes, gloves, hat
- Water, snacks
- Camera
- Sunglasses & sunscreen
- Hiking shoes
- Waterproof jacket

Cancellation or changes of this tour:

Changes: It is FREE to change the tour date before 5:00 pm (Quito time) the day before the tour begins.

Cancellations: If you cancel before 5:00 pm (Quito time) 2 days before the tour begins, a 10% administration fee will apply. After this time, there is a 100% cancellation fee.

Please email bookings@findlocaltrips.com to cancel this tour or make any changes.

1. What time zone is used in Quito?

   Local time in Quito is GMT -5.

2. What kind of weather can we find in Quito?

   The average year-round temperature varies from 10°C to 20°C. In February, March, April and October, it can be hot and humid, but also rainy. The warmest month is January, the coolest month is May, the driest month is July, and the wettest month is April.

3. What should I bring to the tour?

   You should bring a camera, warm clothes, hiking shoes, gloves, a hat, a waterproof jacket, a bottle of water and snacks, sunglasses, sunscreen, and cash for personal expenses and tips.