ecuador otavalo

The vibrant town of Otavalo is home to a colourful market, considered by many to be an essential place to visit on any trip to Ecuador. The entrepreneurial locals wear traditional dress to sell their wares, which range from ponchos to native jewellery to locally produced ceramics. The market dates back to pre-Inca times, and runs every day of the week (although if you'd rather miss the crowds, avoid Saturdays).

Located north of Quito in the province of Imbabura, Otavalo is set in beautiful surroundings to the patchwork backdrop of the Andes. In the nearby countryside, there are a number of haciendas offering the perfect setting to go riding, hire mountain bikes or climb the local peaks before returning to a comfortable bed and home-cooked cuisine.

During your stay, check out the thriving folk music scene - local bands generally play on Friday and Saturday nights. The lively fiestas are also not to be missed, celebrating various events during the year, such as Difuntos in November where the indigenous locals gather to honour their ancestors.