Private Otavalo, Cotacachi & San Antonio Artisan Tour from Quito

Summary

Handicraft Markets & Local Artisans North of Quito

You’ll get to wander through Ecuador’s most famous markets and meet real artisans—from Otavalo’s lively textile stalls to Cotacachi’s leather shops and San Antonio’s wood workshops. It’s not just shopping; it’s seeing how these crafts are made and talking with locals who’ve done this work for generations.

What’s the experience like?

The day started early—Quito’s morning air still cool as we climbed into the van. Our guide, Andrés, chatted about the patchwork fields rolling past the windows. First stop: Otavalo’s Plaza de Ponchos. Even before you see it, you hear it—vendors calling out prices, music from a nearby stall. The smell of fresh fruit and grilled corn drifts by. Here, bargaining isn’t just allowed; it’s expected. I tried my luck with a scarf seller—she laughed when I fumbled my Spanish but knocked a few dollars off anyway. The colors are wild: blankets stacked high, woven belts hanging everywhere, little kids darting between stalls with baskets of bracelets.

After an hour or so wandering (and yes, shopping), we headed to Cotacachi. This town feels quieter but you can spot the leather shops right away—rows of jackets and bags hanging in open doorways. I picked up a wallet for my dad; the owner explained how his family’s been working leather for decades. Lunch was simple but good—a bowl of locro soup at a café called La Casona, right on the main square. Last stop: San Antonio de Ibarra. You’ll hear the tap-tap of chisels before you see anything else. Whole families carve wood here—some pieces are tiny animals, others are big religious statues that take months to finish. We watched a teenager sanding down a figurine while his grandfather painted details by hand.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Markets and Artisans North of Quito

• Visit Otavalo Market
• Explore Cotacachi leather artisans and San Antonio wood carvers

Top questions

How long does the tour last?

The tour takes a full day—usually around 8 to 9 hours including travel time from Quito.

Is lunch included?

Yes, lunch is included at a local restaurant in Cotacachi.

Can I bring children?

Absolutely! Kids are welcome and there are infant seats available if you need them.

Do I need to know Spanish?

No worries if you don’t speak Spanish—the guide speaks English and can help with any translations or bargaining tips.

What’s included

Your hotel pickup and drop-off in Quito are covered, plus bottled water for the ride and all activities along the way. A professional guide leads the tour (sometimes multi-lingual), and lunch is included in Cotacachi. It’s private too—just your group and the guide.