Travel to Ecuador, Galapagos: Otavalo Market Extension

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Otavalo Market Extension

			DAYS: 1 GRADE: I, Easy Hiking define PRICE: From $85 per person (Includes Local Air) HIGHLIGHTS: Otavalo Market Cuicocha Lake Vists to local artsian shops lunch with Huarmi Maqui woman's coop ACCOMMODATIONS: Hotels/Lodges MEALS: As noted  [B-Breakfast, L-Lunch,   D-Dinner] SEASON: Year-round Prices, Departure Dates and Included Services Send to a Friend Print this Itinerary

Nestled between the snowcapped Imbabura and Cotachachi volcanoes, the town of Otavalo rests in a culturally distinctive area of the Andean Highlands. Staying at one of the beautifully reconstructed haciendas outside of town, take a guided trip through some of the many local artesian shops as well as the famous market.  This is a great way to round out your stay in Ecuador.

Learn how to construct and play a traditional pan flute from a local master

DAY 1 :  OTAVALO
Departing from your Quito hotel, travel north into the Andean highlands, stopping at small villages to experience local culture and handicrafts along the way.  Enjoy lunch at a hosteria with magnificent views of surrounding volcanoes.  You will stay at one of the beautifully restored colonial haciendas.  Horseback riding, hiking, and mountain biking are just a few of the options available to guests.  Overnight at Hacienda Pinsaqui or Hacienda Cusin. [BLD]

	Hiking around Lago Cuicocha offers stunning views of Volcn Cotacachi and the surrounding valleys.

DAY 2 :  OTAVALO-QUITO
After breakfast, visit the world-famous market at Otavalo. These traditional meeting points have been a vital link of the highland Indian cultures since pre-Incan times. This is a magnificent opportunity to photograph native peoples, distinctive clothing, animals, flowers, fruits, vegetables, and pottery that are displayed in colorful arrays. Be prepared to get involved in the excitement of bargaining and buying.  This afternoon you will have the opportunity to have lunch with the Huarmi Maqui, a local Quechua womans artisanal co-op or head out hiking with your guide. Founded in 1999 by women in the neighboring towns, the Huarmi Maqui are dedicated to improving the lives of poor woman through education in traditional artisan crafts and offering classes in womens rights and health. See a demonstration and learn about their fascinating textile traditions. If you choose to hike this afternoon, follow your guide to either the Laguna Cuicocha a caldera lake on the flanks of Volcan Cotacachi featuring spectacular views of the surrounding peaks, or try gentler path above lovely Lago San Pablo, meandering through the fragrant eucalyptus groves that skirt the fields where farmers work with their draft animals.  Return to Quito for an overnight (not included) or fly out the same evening. [B]

Questions? Ask Our Program Directors.

. C o n t a c t Jeff Stivers 1(800)345-4453