Folklore Between the Paramo and the Snow
The Ecuadorian Andes are known worldwide for their impressive mountains, volcanoes, and snow-capped peaks, some of the most famous of which are Cotopaxi and Chimborazo. The ten Andean provinces are also home to cities and towns of historical interest and importance such as Quito and Cuenca and artisan centers such as Otavalo. The area is also home to several national parks with an abundant variety of flora and fauna. Because of the diverse geography of the area, the Andes consists of a variety of landscapes, each one with a unique microclimate. Moreover, the area is a place visited by almost all visitors who come to Ecuador as Quito's Mariscal Sucre International Airport is the nation's most frequented entry point.
Archaeological Monuments and Sanctuaries
The country's oldest archaeological ruins are to be found in this region. The area is also home to several villages full of handicrafts as well as to a variety of protected areas, national parks, and nature reserves. Cuenca, the capital of Azuay (one of the three provinces of the Southern region) stands out as a historical and cultural city. This part of the country is also known for its hot springs and the traditional medicines which are used here. The climate differs according to the altitude. However, in general, the weather here is relatively cool.
Our Short Trips
Quito and Surroundings Indian Markets Lagoons Highlands and national Parks
Otavalo Indian Market
Duration: 8 hours
Dcparture: Thursday and Saturdays
Hour: 8h00
This is a marvellous visit to the northern part of the country. First, you visit Calderón town where you can find our famous bread dough figures; then, cross the equinoctial line, to Cayambe, San Pablo lake and arrive at Otavalo. Here, you visit the most famous Indian Market of Latin America which takes place at the Poncho Square and have the opportunity of taking photographs and buying textiles, tapestries, leather articles, carved handicrafts, etc. In the afternoon, you visit the cities of San Antonio de Ibarra and Cotacachi.
| OTAVALO INDIAN MARKET | |
|---|---|
Days Available |
Price per person |
T - S |
$ 60 |
Indian Market of Otavalo and Other Cities of the Imbabura Province
Duration: 2 days
Thursday, Friday and Saturday
Hour: 8h00
DAY 01: This is a marvellous visit to the northern part of the country. First, you go to Calderón town where you can find our famous bread dough figures; then, you cross the equinoctial line, to Cayambe, San Pablo lake and the town of Peguche where you will observe the artisans in their workshops. Then you continue to the cascade of the same name. In the afternoon you visit San Antonio de Ibarra, known because of its carved handicrafts and Cotacachi where people make all kinds of leather articles.
Optional: at night, if it is possible, you will be able to go to a folk club and enjoy Andean music.
DAY 02: After breakfast you visit the Otawlo Indian Market, where tourists have the opportunity of taking photographs and buying textiles, fabrics, paintings, ceramic products, leather and wood articles, jewelry, tapestries and more at excellent prices. Then you go the Cuicocha lagoon and take a boat trip. Return to Quito.
| INDIAN MARKET OF OTAVALO & OTHER CITIES OF THE IMABURA PROVINCE | |
|---|---|
| Days Available | Price per person |
| Friday and Saturday | $ |
Pujili Market
Duration: 8 hours
departure: Sunday
Hour: 8h00
Driving along the South Pan-American Highway and through the Avenue of Volcanoes, you will enjoy the wonderful landscape until the town of Pujilí. This population is famous because of its market of ceramic and wicker baskets. Here, you will be able to admire the folkloric and colorful attire of the Indian people. In the afternoon, you visit the National Park of Cotopaxi and see llamas. Return to Quito.
| PUJILÍ MARKET | |
|---|---|
| Days Available | Price per person |
| Sundays | $ |
Saquisilí Market
Duration: 8 hours
Departure: Thursday
Hour: 8h00
You travel to the Cotopaxi province, south of Quito, and drive through the Avenue of Volcanoes until the town of Saquisilí. There, you will find the biggest Indian Fair, which has 7 markets. In the afternoon, you will visit the National Park of Cotopaxi and see llamas and vicunas. Return to Quito.
| SAQUISILÍ MARKET | |
|---|---|
| Days Available | Price per person |
| Thursdays | $ |
Zumbahua Market
Duration: 8 hours
Departure: Saturday
Hour: 6h30
The tour starts early in the morning (6:30) departing from Quito on the South Pan-American Highway and the Avenue of Volcanoes. You pass the city of Latacunga and the Pujilí population before arriving at the town of Zumbahua, which is an Indian community. Here, you will observe the Indians of the zone carrying their products to the market on the back of the llamas for barter (trueque). Barter is a pre-colonial costume maintained till nowadays. You can also find attractive Naif paintings. In the afternoon you will return to Quito.
Different Fairs:
Ambato Fair: Monday
Pelileo fair: Saturday
Salasacas Fair: Sunday
Latancunga Fair: Thursday and Saturdays
| ZUMBAHUA MARKET | |
|---|---|
| Days Available | Price per person |
| Saturdays | $ |
