This Andean market town, 2,500 meters above sea level, has South America's largest indigenous craft fair every Saturday. Local weavers sell textiles and crafts.
Local Otavaleños in traditional dress sell their handwoven textiles and crafts at Plaza de los Ponchos, the largest indigenous market in South America. The town sits at 2,532 meters between Imbabura and Cotacachi volcanoes in Ecuador's northern Andes. You can walk to the 18-meter Peguche waterfall, take a boat ride on Cuicocha's volcanic crater lake, or watch Andean condors soar during daily demonstrations at Parque Condor.
Market Prices and Safety
When shopping at the market, break larger bills at restaurants or stores beforehand. Woven bracelets typically cost $3-5, while blankets start at $20-40 before negotiating. The market becomes extremely crowded on Saturdays, with thousands of vendors and shoppers filling the streets from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Store money in separate pockets or a money belt, and keep your backpack in front of you in busy areas. Many pickpockets work in teams, so stay alert when someone bumps into you or creates a distraction.
