Private Otavalo Market & Andean Highlands Tour in Quito, Ecuador
Quito, Ecuador

Private Otavalo Market & Andean Highlands Tour

Outty Ranking 75 5.0 · 33 traveler reviews7 hoursFrom $139
Instant mobile ticketSpots available today

Outty Ranking

75/100

Strongly Recommended. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 33 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Private Otavalo Market & Andean Highlands Tour worth booking?

Private Otavalo Market & Andean Highlands Tour is a 7-hour experience in Quito, Ecuador, from $139 per person. It scores 75 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 5/5 rating across 33 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
75 / 100
Rating
5/5 (33)
Duration
7 hours
From
$139 per person

Imbabura or known as the Lakes Province is absolutely one of the favorite tours on visitor’s trips while in Ecuador. The main attraction is Otavalo Market. It is a massive Saturday crafts market (But there is a market every day too) – one of the biggest of South America! Tons of traditionally-attired Quechua locals take over the streets of the whole town center, selling beautiful artwork, handicrafts, livestock, and clothing, anything you can imagine! You will also LOVE the food at Cotacachi also known as the Leather Town, and all the great but cheap restaurants around town. The waterfall that after a short walk ,you will be impressed by its beauty .Finally amazing views of the Andes on the way back to Quito. We invite you to join us to this very colorful tour with a local taste

What you get

    About this experience

    Imbabura or known as the Lakes Province is absolutely one of the favorite tours on visitor’s trips while in Ecuador. The main attraction is Otavalo Market. It is a massive Saturday crafts market (But there is a market every day too) – one of the biggest of South America! Tons of traditionally-attired Quechua locals take over the streets of the whole town center, selling beautiful artwork, handicrafts, livestock, and clothing, anything you can imagine! You will also LOVE the food at Cotacachi also known as the Leather Town, and all the great but cheap restaurants around town. The waterfall that after a short walk ,you will be impressed by its beauty .Finally amazing views of the Andes on the way back to Quito. We invite you to join us to this very colorful tour with a local taste

    What's included

    Included

    • All sightseeing mentioned above
    • Private transportation
    • Bottled water
    • English -Spanish speaking Certified Guide
    • Park admission fee

    Not included

    • Lunch
    • Gratuities
    • Anything not specified in program

    What you'll see and do

    1. Guayllabamba

      We will drive 2 ½ hours to the northern side of the Andes, where we will tour one of the most visited areas by foreigners and local tourists known as ´The Lakes Province´. Our drive will go across Guayllabamba Valley where we can enjoy delicious fruits.

      60 minutes here

    2. Cayambe

      Then we will continue our trip through an area with several viewpoints, these are the perfect places for people who like photography.

      30 minutes here

    3. Otavalo Market

      We will visit Otavalo Indian Market, which is very famous for its quality handicrafts, and its exportation to all over the world.

      60 minutes here

    4. Cascada de Peguche

      Then we will take you to visit a wonderful waterfall known as Peguche, it’s a sacred place where the locals renew their energies and you will also do!!!

      45 minutes here · Admission not included

    5. Cotacachi

      Then we will visit Cotacachi Area, which is known for its famous-quality cow and sheep leather articles and also for lunch, there are several typical dishes and you can have a chance to try guinea pig if you desire.

      60 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 10 minutes before departure.

    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
    Guide Ecuador Travel

    Know before you go

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Lama looking, Private Otavalo Market & Andean Highlands Tour in QuitoAt otavalo market, Private Otavalo Market & Andean Highlands Tour in QuitoOtavalo ladie, Private Otavalo Market & Andean Highlands Tour in QuitoGinea Pig tasting, Private Otavalo Market & Andean Highlands Tour in QuitoSouvenirs, Private Otavalo Market & Andean Highlands Tour in QuitoLocal art, Private Otavalo Market & Andean Highlands Tour in Quito

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 33 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    10 mentions

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

    Knowledge and storytelling

    7 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Food and drink

    3 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Photo opportunities

    2 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Organization

    2 mentions

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

    Good for families

    2 mentions

    Reviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.

    Traveler reviews

    33 verified traveler reviews for Private Otavalo Market & Andean Highlands Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    32
    4 star
    1
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    0
    Sort
    Leidy A · February 2026

    Perfect Tour for Solo Travelers

    Erik was an amazing and very helpful tour guide. As a solo traveler, I felt completely safe and comfortable throughout the tour. He’s extremely knowledgeable and took me to some of the best spots with incredible views. His friendly and professional attitude made the experience even better. I would absolutely book another tour with Erik on my next visit to Quito.

    Response from the operator: Hello Leidy, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re thrilled to hear that you enjoyed our services at GUIDECUADOR . Your satisfaction means the world to us! We hope to see you again soon for another amazing adventure! Regards Marce GUIDECUADOR

    via Tripadvisor

    Rana_G · January 2026

    Carla was an exceptional...

    Carla was an exceptional tour guide. She took us to places that were not on our itinerary which included visiting a musicians workshop and a weaving workshop. We thoroughly enjoyed spending the day with her.

    Response from the operator: Hi Rana, Thank you so much for your lovely review! We’re delighted to hear that you had such a great day with Carla and that she went the extra mile by taking you to unique places like the musicians’ and weaving workshops. We’ll be sure to share your kind words with her. It was a pleasure having you with us, and we hope to welcome you again to other adventure in Latinamerica!

    via Viator

    Mike H · August 2025

    Familia

    My guide, Juan, was very nice and treated me like family. It was like taking a tour with a friend. He was knowledgeable and very easy to talk to and made the tour not only about Otavolo but about me and what I wanted to get out of the experience.

    Response from the operator: Hi Mike, Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re delighted to hear that Juan made you feel like part of the family and tailored the tour to your interests. It’s wonderful to know your experience in Otavalo was so personalized and memorable. We'll be happy to help you again anytime! Best Regards, Jhanis Guide Team

    via Tripadvisor

    jimandthefamily · July 2025

    Best day in Quito

    We had the best time thanks to joel. He was incredible and was able to tailor the trip to everything we wanted. Our driver Ricardo(I hope I remembered correct) was excellent. They watched over us and made sure that we always felt safe. Joel was awesome and connected with our 5 kids ages 16-20. He was always making us laugh and provided enough facts to make it interesting. I thought it would be a boring drive, but he made sure to interact with us and had special surprises that made the drive time fly by. He helped us in the market get the best deals, and found a place that everyone in our group loved the food. I would highly recommend joel and his driver because they were professional, intelligent and very interested in making sure we had fun and learned about the country they love

    Response from the operator: Dear Jim We sincerely thank you for your positive review. We're pleased to know you were satisfied with our Otavalo Tour. We will also say thank you to Joel and the driver on your behalf It will be a pleasure to serve you again! Regards Alejandro

    via Tripadvisor

    bronsyn · June 2025

    Great Day !

    Great private tour, we were picked up at our hotel on time, visited Bizcochos bakery, delicious tasting opportunity, learned about the Agave plant. Visited Middle of the Earth solar museum in Cayambe.... on to Otavalo Market, we took the time we wanted to visit the merchants and shop... Next on to Cotacachi where we visited a loom weaver with beautiful wall hangings, blankets among other things, demonstration of how the wool is dyed using the base Cochineal a red dye derived from a scale insect and the deviations of how additives such as baking soda, ash and sulphur changes the colors of the dye. Could not leave here without buying a reminder of this wonderful reflection of Equadorian culture. A musical instrument shop with demonstrations of all the hand made instruments ...had to buy something here too 😊 . Finally, a great meal at Casa Lenador and a chance to browse the stores. Our tour guide did a wonderful job, the days was ours to enjoy and we were never rushed. Our guide Josue Santamaria made our day the best we could have hoped for ! I would highly recommend this tour company.

    Response from the operator: Hello Bronsyn ! We really appreciate your feedback on the full day tour with Guide Ecuador. We're glad to know that Josue Santamaria made your experience unforgettable with his knowledge and kindness. We hope to see you again on future adventures in Ecuador. Thank you for choosing us! Erika Guidecuador

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    7 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $139 to $270
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    12
    Verdict
    Strongly Recommended

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Guide Ecuador Travel, who run 5 experiences we rank across 2 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 57.1.

    See everything Guide Ecuador Travel runs

    Why this scores 75

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

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)96
    Review evidence (18% weight)62
    Booking momentum (14% weight)56
    Value for money (12% weight)47
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)61
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Private Otavalo Market & Andean Highlands Tour: questions travelers ask

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

    How much does Private Otavalo Market & Andean Highlands Tour cost?

    +

    Prices start at $139 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 Market & Andean Highlands Tour take?

    +

    Plan for about 7 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 Market & Andean Highlands Tour worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 75 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 33 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 Market & Andean Highlands Tour?

    +

    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 Market & Andean Highlands Tour suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 7-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Private Otavalo Market & Andean Highlands Tour?

    +

    Around 12 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?

    +

    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 7-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Private Otavalo Market & Andean Highlands Tour start and how do I get there?

    +

    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?

    +

    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?

    +

    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 Market & Andean Highlands Tour?

    +

    Included: All sightseeing mentioned above; Private transportation; Bottled water; English -Spanish speaking Certified Guide; and Park admission fee. Not included: Lunch; Gratuities; and Anything not specified in program. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Private Otavalo Market & Andean Highlands Tour include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 75 listed pickup locations in and around Quito. Be ready about 10 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is Private Otavalo Market & Andean Highlands Tour offered in?

    +

    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 Market & Andean Highlands Tour?

    +

    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.

    What happens to Private Otavalo Market & Andean Highlands Tour 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 Market & Andean Highlands Tour?

    +

    Across 33 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Private Otavalo Market & Andean Highlands Tour.

    Pick your date