Where is the Otavalo craft market?

Imbabura province
Otavalo Market, locally known as Plaza de los Ponchos and Centenario Market is one of the largest indigenous market in Latin America. It is located in the Imbabura province in the Otavalo district.

Is Otavalo market expensive?

As with markets worldwide, prices are negotiable at Otavalo Market. That being said, I found the Ecuadorians very easy and lovely to barter with. Only once or twice in a whole day were we given ludicrously high prices and most were happy to give discounts and especially if you bought multiple items.

Why is the Otavalo market famous?

Otavalo is best known for its textiles and weaving, and it seems like the market is covered with blankets, tablecloths, and wall hanging on display come Saturday market days. The Otavaleño indigenous people have been known for their weaving since pre-Inca times, and this is part of how the market got its start.

What is sold at the Otavalo market?

The market sells everything from blankets and ponchos to jewelry, instruments, leather goods, platters, spices and more. Although it is huge tourist attraction, the Otavalo Market is a must-see for anyone visiting Ecuador.

What can you buy at Otavalo?

Another favorite transformation of the famous Otavalo textiles, clothing makes up a lot of the products for sale as well. Alpaca sweaters and scarves are favorites and come in plenty of patterns, as do hats, ponchos, and more. You’ll find everything from stylish and modern sweaters to indigenous embroidered tops here.

How big is the Otavalo market?

Time your trip to Otavalo Ecuador for the weekend, as on Saturdays this small urban center of 50,000 transforms into the largest craft market in all of South America.

What’s the most popular food in Ecuador?

The fritada de chancho (usually just shortened to fritada) is one of the most common and popular foods in Ecuador.

What is unique about the world famous market in Otavalo Ecuador?

Open seven days a week from 7am to 6pm, the Otavalo market is famous for its display of millenary textile traditions and is one of the largest markets of its kind in South America. Once you step inside you will likely hear local vendors speaking the indigenous language of Kichwa to one another.

Why can’t you drink the water in Ecuador?

Most tap water in Ecuador is NOT chlorinated, which means it isn’t safe to drink. However, the tap water in Cuenca is chlorinated, as well as in parts of Quito, so you can drink it in those areas.

What is the national drink of Ecuador?

pinolillo
Also called pinolillo, drinking pinol is a part of Ecuadorian culture and it is Ecuador’s national drink. People make it at home and you can also buy pinol in coffee shops and ice cream parlors in Salcedo where the drink originated. Pinol may also refer to the dry mix itself, which is used in making fruit smoothies.

What can you buy in an indigenous market?

Scarves, hats, sweaters, and other textiles, as well as jewelry and other handicrafts, are for sale at nearly every stall. Plus, there are several food stands where fresh juice, fish, sandwiches, and other local dishes are sold. Read our Heart of the Andes Tour, which includes an Otavalo Market tour.

Is it safe to eat the food in Ecuador?

Yes, fruits and vegetables are safe to eat in Ecuador. That being said, it’s important to remember that water isn’t safe to drink, and fruits and vegetables can make you sick if they were washed with contaminated water.