Private Otavalo and Cotacachi Day Trip from Quito
Quito, Ecuador

Private Otavalo and Cotacachi Day Trip from Quito

Outty Ranking 60 4.3 · 3 traveler reviews10 hoursFrom $130
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Outty Ranking

60/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.3/5

Based on 3 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Private Otavalo and Cotacachi Day Trip from Quito worth booking?

Private Otavalo and Cotacachi Day Trip from Quito is a 10-hour experience in Quito, Ecuador, from $130 per person. It scores 60 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4.3/5 rating across 3 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
60 / 100
Rating
4.3/5 (3)
Duration
10 hours
From
$130 per person

Otavalo is home to an ancestral indigenous handicrafts market where you will be amazed by the variety of colorful handicrafts. The beautiful scenery and friendly people will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. At the "Plaza de Ponchos" market you will find artisans of leather, wood, fabric, embroidery, marzipan art and jewelry that will make you wish you had brought an extra bag for when you return home. Take some time to interact with the vendors and live as part of the culture of one of the oldest and most emblematic civilizations of Ecuador and the Andean region.

What you get

    About this experience

    Otavalo is home to an ancestral indigenous handicrafts market where you will be amazed by the variety of colorful handicrafts. The beautiful scenery and friendly people will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. At the "Plaza de Ponchos" market you will find artisans of leather, wood, fabric, embroidery, marzipan art and jewelry that will make you wish you had brought an extra bag for when you return home. Take some time to interact with the vendors and live as part of the culture of one of the oldest and most emblematic civilizations of Ecuador and the Andean region.

    What's included

    Included

    • Private transportation
    • Professional bilingual guide
    • Tasting of biscuits and leaf cheese in Cayambe
    • Hotel/port pickup and drop-off

    Not included

    • Food and drinks
    • Gratuities
    • Entrance fees
    • The program does not include anything not specified

    What you'll see and do

    1. Cayambe

      Our guide will pick you up at your hotel early in the morning and we will head north until we reach the town of Cayambe, known for its "bizcochos", a type of baked bread rolls that are accompanied by the so-called "Queso de hoja" (leaf cheese) because it is wrapped in leaves to preserve them.

      120 minutes here

    2. Otavalo Market

      We continue our journey to the Otavalo Market, where you can see all kinds of handicrafts made by the skilled hands of the indigenous people of the area. Famous for owning one of the largest indigenous fairs in Latin America, where their skilled artisans expose all their handicrafts and fabrics recognized worldwide.

      180 minutes here

    3. We continue until we reach the musical workshop where we will listen to Andean music that comes out of the instruments that the natives skillfully create with their hands, our tour progresses until we reach Cotacachi a small and picturesque town famous for its leather creations, here our guide will suggest and give the necessary time for lunch (not included).

      120 minutes here

    4. Cascada de Peguche

      Our next stop will be the town of Peguche, here we will walk until we reach its waterfall, a place full of energy where the natives perform spiritual rituals.

      120 minutes here

    5. Quito

      After which we will return to Quito. Our guide will drop you off at your hotel.

      1 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Quito

    Quito, Ecuador

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 20 minutes before departure.

    Ends at

    Quito · Quito, Ecuador

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en, es
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    BM TOURS SA

    Know before you go

    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • May be operated by a multilingual guide
    • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
    • Rate of the adult, should be applied to the children
    • Wear sunsblock, wear comfortable shoes for walking, bring a camera
    • Children must be accompanied by an adult

    Photos

    Private Otavalo and Cotacachi Day Trip from Quito, photo 2Lago San Pablo, Private Otavalo and Cotacachi Day Trip from QuitoCotacachi, Private Otavalo and Cotacachi Day Trip from QuitoCotacachi, Private Otavalo and Cotacachi Day Trip from QuitoPrivate Otavalo and Cotacachi Day Trip from Quito, photo 6Private Otavalo and Cotacachi Day Trip from Quito, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 3 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Value for money

    2 mentions

    Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

    The guide

    1 mention

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Organization

    1 mention

    Pickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.

    Traveler reviews

    3 verified traveler reviews for Private Otavalo and Cotacachi Day Trip from Quito. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    2
    4 star
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    3 star
    1
    2 star
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    1 star
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    Sort
    PJCDublin · February 2026

    A great visit north of the capital

    We took the tour with letsgotoecuador.com. Booking was easy and our guide Jean Pierre was very good. Highly recommend

    Response from the operator: gracias por su comentario, estamos gustosos de recibirles en Ecuador

    via Tripadvisor

    Kausar786 · November 2021

    A good time filler

    Hundreds of traders with their products at an open market. Nice place tp bargain if know Spanish. The market is good for handmade sweaters, ponchos and jewellery. If you have time you may visit. NOT a necessary trip. Prices at La Mariscal were same or better on some things

    Response from the operator: Gracias por tu comentario y nos dió mucho gusto poder servirte. El tour a Otavalo y Cotacachi es una actividad de turismo cultural para poder descubrir la forma de vida y trabajo de estos 2 pueblo maravillosos, a lo mejor no es el tipo de tour que se ajuste a tus gustos.

    via Tripadvisor

    Andrea_B · September 2016

    Very punctual and fun. Just remember...

    <p>Very punctual and fun. Just remember that the market is like a tourist trap and always look for a bargain</p>

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    10 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $130 to $228
    Hotel pickup
    Available for selected locations
    Booked in 30 days
    1
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by BM TOURS SA, who run 19 experiences we rank across 4 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 49.9.

    See everything BM TOURS SA runs

    Why this scores 60

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)85
    Review evidence (18% weight)25
    Booking momentum (14% weight)15
    Value for money (12% weight)71
    Listing quality (10% weight)79
    Local standing (8% weight)41
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Private Otavalo and Cotacachi Day Trip from Quito: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Quito.

    How much does Private Otavalo and Cotacachi Day Trip from Quito cost?

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    Prices start at $130 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Quito usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Private Otavalo and Cotacachi Day Trip from Quito take?

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    Plan for about 10 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Quito is not rushed.

    Is Private Otavalo and Cotacachi Day Trip from Quito worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 60 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.3/5 across 3 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Quito, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Private Otavalo and Cotacachi Day Trip from Quito?

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    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Private Otavalo and Cotacachi Day Trip from Quito suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 10-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Private Otavalo and Cotacachi Day Trip from Quito?

    +

    Around 1 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Quito can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

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    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Quito and add a light layer if any part of the 10-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Private Otavalo and Cotacachi Day Trip from Quito start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Quito within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Quito?

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    On Outty we rank every Quito experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Cotopaxi Volcano full day tour with all the entrances, every day, Cotopaxi tour from Quito -horseback ride and hike-NO TOURISTY way, Baños Full Day Tour from Quito Including Entrances and Activities. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Quito?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Quito?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Private Otavalo and Cotacachi Day Trip from Quito?

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    Included: Private transportation; Professional bilingual guide; Tasting of biscuits and leaf cheese in Cayambe; and Hotel/port pickup and drop-off. Not included: Food and drinks; Gratuities; Entrance fees; and The program does not include anything not specified. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Private Otavalo and Cotacachi Day Trip from Quito include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 39 listed pickup locations in and around Quito. Be ready about 20 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is Private Otavalo and Cotacachi Day Trip from Quito offered in?

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    It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Private Otavalo and Cotacachi Day Trip from Quito?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Private Otavalo and Cotacachi Day Trip from Quito wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Private Otavalo and Cotacachi Day Trip from Quito if the weather is bad?

    +

    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Quito. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about Private Otavalo and Cotacachi Day Trip from Quito?

    +

    Across 3 reviews averaging 4.3 out of 5, recurring themes include value for money, the guide, organization. Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

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