Tag: indigenous

Must See Spots in Ecuador

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Ecuador is one of the somewhat underrated countries in South America. Its too peaceful to be notorious like Colombia and Venezuela and its not a tourist hotspot like Peru, Brazil, Argentina and Chile. The Galapagos Islands are famous of course – but they are so out-of-this-world that they feel like a country in their own right and therefore sometimes left out of references to Ecuador as a tourist spot. Also, the Galapagos aren’t huge on the backpacker trail which is often how South America is explored as they are just so damn expensive to visit.

I hope to show you in this post why you just have to get to Ecuador right now as it is such a chill place with a great vibe! Oh and make the Galapagos Islands a must do even if you have to sell a kidney (JJ but not really).

Otavalo

Otavalo is an easy breezy mountain town. There’s not a lot to do here but relax! You may just pass through on your way to/from Colombia but Otavalo also has an amazing indigenous market which is the largest in South America and a gorgeous and easy hike around Lake Cuicocha nearby. Definitely worth a stop. See my post here for more info about visiting Otavalo.



Quito

Quito seems like any other big South American city from the outset (although I feel they all have something special and unique about them) but its actually quite charming. Relatively safe, quaint and relaxed. There are also some cool spots to visit around Quito such as the Equator (cheesy I know!). See my post here for things to do in Quito.



Baños

Baños is unexpectedly cool – don’t come here and expect to chill out in the mountains. It’s Ecuador’s home of adventure! Also, you need to be fit to manage all the hiking and biking and holding onto swings as you fly out over the valleys. As I said…adventure. Who’s up for it? Find out what I’m doing in the picture below here.

The Galapagos Islands

The jewel in Ecuador’s crown is the Galapagos Islands. It’s one of those places you visit and can’t believe its real. I really don’t need to go into detail about why you need to visit the Galapagos – just look at any photo and you’ll see. You can see all the beautiful things I spotted in the Galapagos in my photo essay here – I hope it inspires you to visit!.

What are you waiting for? Find a place to stay in Ecuador and get going!

Booking.com

Erika xx

Itinerary: 24 Hours in Otavalo

This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to book a stay or purchase an item I may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Otavalo is an easy breezy mountain town. There’s not a lot to do here but relax! You can choose to stay a while and rest from your tough adventures but you should definitely visit for at least an overnight to enjoy what Otavalo has to offer.

GENERAL INFO

Getting there and away:

The bus station in Otavalo is right in the centre of town which takes away all of the hassles of getting to your accomodation – you can just walk.

Buses leave regularly in both directions – the trip to Tulcan (to cross the border into Colombia) takes 3 hours but can often get stopped by police so allow extra time. The bus to Quito takes 2 hours. Both ways have amazing views so best to travel during the day!

Accommodation:

We recommend Hostal La Rosa which you can book through Booking.com. It is very centrally located and comfortable.

Top Tip:

If you have some extra time Otavalo is a great town to just wander around. It’s safe, small and quaint plus its surrounded by some gorgeous scenery.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITIES

  1. The indigenous market in Otavalo is the largest of its kind in South America and is definitely the largest in Ecuador. It’s very centrally located in Otavalo and so theres no need to travel to see it – just walk right out of your hotel and you will be there. Best to go to this market early. Also, its more of a photo/sightseeing opportunity than the best place to purchase souvenirs: there are a few unique items but its best not to try to buy Alpaca products here as many are fake (unless this is the only market you are visiting in South America then you will have to take the chance!).
    Early in the AM is the best time to visit and the market closes up around 4pm.

2. Hiking around Cuicocha Lake is a wonderful activity in Otavalo. This is an easy hike that helps you to get used to the higher South American altitudes around an unbelievably picturesque lake. You can probably fit this in in an afternoon after the market if you are fit – if not I would allow a day so that you don’t feel too rushed. See my post on Hiking Lake Cuicocha here for more practical info.

Erika xx