Discover Otavalo’s vibrant market, Cuicocha Lake, Peguche Waterfall, and Cotacachi on a full-day private tour from Quito. Immerse in Quechua culture.
Discover Otavalo’s vibrant market, Cuicocha Lake, Peguche Waterfall, and Cotacachi on a full-day private tour from Quito. Immerse in Quechua culture.
- Quito - The journey begins in Quito, heading north along the Pan-American Highway towards Imbabura Province, where the lively town of Otavalo awaits. (Travel time from Quito to Pisque: 35 minutes)
- Mirador Pisque - Located between Guayllabamba and Tabacundo in Pichincha Province, the Pisque Viewpoint is a must-see along the route. It offers a…
- Quito - The journey begins in Quito, heading north along the Pan-American Highway towards Imbabura Province, where the lively town of Otavalo awaits. (Travel time from Quito to Pisque: 35 minutes)
- Mirador Pisque - Located between Guayllabamba and Tabacundo in Pichincha Province, the Pisque Viewpoint is a must-see along the route. It offers a perfect spot to enjoy the stunning Andean landscapes, making it an unmissable stop.
(Continue to Miralago: 25 minutes)
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Miralago - A brief stop at a delightful craft shop provides the chance to purchase genuine regional products. Enjoy some Andean coffee while taking in the breathtaking views of San Pablo Lake and its surroundings. From this vantage point, admire the impressive Taita Imbabura mountain, significant to local indigenous communities, as well as the intriguing Mojanda knot and the Cajas.
(Continue to Peguche Waterfall: 25 minutes) - Peguche - Explore and hike to the Ceremonial Waterfall of Peguche/Chi, a site with Kichwa origins, meaning ‘steam or sacred water vapor descending from above.’ In Kichwa, ‘steam’ translates to ‘sami,’ ‘samay,’ or ‘ashnac,’ synonymous with the energy or power of Yacumama (the Power of Water).
During solstices and equinoxes, special ceremonies and festivities are held here.
(Continue to Music workshop: 20 min)
- Taller Ñanda Mañachi - Visit the home of the musical group Ñanda Mañachi, where a variety of traditional musical instruments from Andean countries are showcased, used to create folk music. This visit offers a chance to engage closely with the artists, gaining insight into their culture and their profound appreciation for art and Mother Earth.
(Travel Time from Ñanda Mañachi’s Workshop to Otavalo Indian Market: 25 min)
- Plaza De Los Ponchos Mercado - The vibrant Otavalo market, known as the Plaza de Ponchos, is the largest indigenous market in Latin America. Discover a wide array of textiles, jewelry, bags, alpaca toys, necklaces, leather goods, hats, and many other treasures. Immerse in the local culture by interacting with artisans and observing their craftsmanship.
After enjoying free time at the market, a lunch break (lunch not included) is scheduled before proceeding to Laguna de Cuicocha.
(Continue to Cuicocha Lake: 40 min)
Attraction Time at Plaza de Ponchos: 60 minutes
- Laguna Cuicocha - Situated on the majestic southeastern slopes of Mama Cotacachi, at an elevation of 3,060 meters, Laguna de Cuicocha is the most beautiful and picturesque of the northern Ecuadorian lakes. This stunning crater or caldera, with a three-kilometer diameter and clear waters, captivates visitors. In its center are the islets of Teodoro Wolf (the largest) and José MarÃa Yerovi, separated by ‘The Canal of Dreams.’ The area is home to mountain guinea pigs, known as ‘guinea pigs,’ which give the lagoon its name.
(Continue to Cotacachi Magic Town: 25 min)
- Cotacachi - Nestled at the base of the volcano sharing its name, the charming town of Cotacachi is renowned for its leather industry, from production to sales. Leather goods are a major attraction, with numerous shops offering a wide range of crafts, clothing, and footwear.
Famous for its high-quality dairy products, the town also exports flowers and asparagus.
The name Cotacachi comes from the Quechua language, meaning ‘The Salt of Powder,’ adding historical significance to this vibrant community.
Returning to Quito marks the conclusion of a day filled with discoveries and the excitement of sharing experiences.
Return to Quito: 3 hours
- Quito - Returning to Quito signifies the end of a day rich with discoveries and the joy of sharing experiences and memories with fellow explorers.

- Private transportation
- Naturalist and bilingual guide
- Entrance fees and registration to national parks
- Activities and transfers according to the itinerary
- 1 driver-guide for 1-6 passengers
- From 7 passengers: 1 additional driver plus 1 guide
- Private transportation
- Naturalist and bilingual guide
- Entrance fees and registration to national parks
- Activities and transfers according to the itinerary
- 1 driver-guide for 1-6 passengers
- From 7 passengers: 1 additional driver plus 1 guide
- Gratuities
- Lunch not included
- Gratuities
- Lunch not included
Otavalo, steeped in Quechua culture, stands as the quintessential tourist destination in our country, internationally renowned primarily for its indigenous market, but that’s not all… Imbabura Province boasts Cuicocha Lake, known as The Lake of the Gods… Peguche Waterfall , famous for its rituals… and the town of Cotacachi… all these experiences…
Otavalo, steeped in Quechua culture, stands as the quintessential tourist destination in our country, internationally renowned primarily for its indigenous market, but that’s not all… Imbabura Province boasts Cuicocha Lake, known as The Lake of the Gods… Peguche Waterfall , famous for its rituals… and the town of Cotacachi… all these experiences you shouldn’t miss on your journey in the northern part of Ecuador. This tour may be tiring for you and our guide… but in the end, you’ll realize it was worth it.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.