Quito to Cayambe and Otavalo Leather Town: Private day trip

The Cayambe Coca National Park reserve protects several volcanoes including Ecuador’s third-highest - Cayambe. The equator passes through Cayambe and it is said to be the only place in the world where the average temperature and latitude are both zero degrees. The park covers more than 4,000 square kilometers and hosts hundreds of species of birds, mammals and reptiles. Expect to see hummingbirds and parrots, armadillos and rabbits, and if you’re lucky, the famous Ecuadorian spectacled bear! It is known as the national park of water as water is everywhere; the fog in the air, glacier lagoons fed by the melting Cayambe ice, rivers and waterfalls and even volcanic hot springs. For a short walk and the viewpoint only, we recommend a 60 minute stop. If you intend on hiking please be sure to add sufficient time to your stop. Note: Bring comfortable walking shoes and waterproof clothing!

The vibrant town of Otavalo is famous for its daily indigenous markets where the locals sell handmade and mass-produced textiles, primarily made of wool. The Plaza de Ponchos is the heart of the action where you can expect to see vendors selling everything from homewares to clothing to fashion accessories in brilliant, vivid colours. For a larger event visit on a Saturday when the markets spill into neighbouring streets as merchants from nearby towns and villages set up shop. Top tip: don’t be scared to barter, it is expected especially if purchasing multiple items! For a little history about the textile industry of Otavalo there is the Museo Viviente Otavalango, a textile factory where Otavalos were once forced to work under harsh conditions. If you prefer nature to shopping, the Peguche Waterfall just outside of town offers a picturesque escape to unwind in tranquil surroundings.