The Home of Ecuador’s Rainbow Market, Otavalo
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March 9, 2022In Ecuador there isn’t a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow, but the rainbow that is the Palacio de Los Ponchos in Otavalo is an absolute treasure in itself. Stretching for blocks and blocks, this incredible artisanal market is unlike any other, and is sure to leave you amazed – and with a lot less room in your suitcase.
Otavalo is the capital city of the Otavalo province, found about 90 km (56 miles) North of Quito, and is home to an astonishing number of talented indigenous artisans and craftspeople. The market here is full of handmade goods and souvenirs. Textiles, wood, leather, metal, puppets, paintings, ponchos, blankets, and almost anything you could imagine can be found here, in stunningly vibrant colours and gorgeous patterns. The only downside to the market will be deciding what you have space for on your journey home! Though the main market operates every day, Saturday it is the busiest and more vendors set up temporary stalls for the extra visitors who come from various places around the region to explore.
The surrounding areas of Otavalo also have a lot to offer, and the neighboring towns all have something unique about them. Scenic dairy farms, lake San Pablo, the Peguche waterfall, and of course the towering Imbabura and Cotacachi Volcanos, and Cuicocha crater lake, are all within a short distance of town and offer an amazing day trip and postcard-perfect scenery.
Otavalo is a must-see stop in the Andes and we would be thrilled to guide you through its many wonders, get in touch today to enquire about tours!
