Otavalo

The charming city of Otavalo is situated 110 km to the north of Quito, the capital of Ecuador. Nestled in the heart of the Andean valley, at an altitude of 2530m, it sits very close to the Columbian border and boasts spectacular views of the majestic Imbabura Volcano.

Otavalo is also conveniently located just a few hours from the Pacific coast and serves as a gateway to the Andean Amazon.

Otavalo stretches accross 528 km2, has a population of 90,000 people and boasts two official languages: Spanish and kichwa.

Because Otavalo is a commerical hub that sustains an international economy English is also spoken in some areas. This unique town is known for its remarkable craftsmanship, its music, and its tourism. The official currency is the US Dollar and the dominant religion is Catholicism.

Otavalo Altitude and weather

Significant changes in altitude mean Otavalo weather conditions can very widely. The area ranges from the 1,100m subtropical zone of Selva Alegre to the hulking Imbabura Volcano at 4,700m.

The average temperature is 14ºC, with crisp mornings, sunny days, autumn evenings and cold nights.

Hydrography

The canton of Otavalo is surrounded by innumerable rivers and lakes. Praised for their beauty and cultural importance, both the San Pablo Lake and the "Lagunas de Mojanda" are worthy of special mention.

Tourism

Otavalo is one of the most important tourists destinations in Ecuador due to its intriguing culture and tradition, the beauty of its rivers, lakes and mountains, the hospitality of its people, and of course for having the most important indegenous market of America, which takes place every Saturday.