The Otavalo Indian Market & Craft Villages of Peguche & Cotacachi

Driving north of Quito for an hour and one half, you reach the lush volcanic highlands. This land is abundant in colorfully attired and friendly Ecuadorians historic haciendas, and dominant volcanoes with green and verdant slopes. Your tour takes you to the the Otavalo Indian craft market. Passing along the highways and highlands to the north, you have the opportunity to enjoy a sweeping panorama of Imbabura and Cotacachi Volcanoes ascending above San Pablo Lake. Your first stop is the village of Peguche where traditional native weavers ply their craft, as they have for centuries. Then on to the market at Otavalo , going back thousands of years and famous along the Andes for handicrafts, tapestries, and textiles. At midday, lunch will be served at one of the historical haciendas built between the 17th and 18th centuries. After lunch you have the opportunity to visit Cotacachi, home to Ecuador's finest leather craftsmen. This tour embraces colorful scenery, diverse cultures and and a chance to bargain. At days end, return to Quito and your hotel.