Otavalo & The Middle of The World in One Day – Small Group

Explore the vibrant culture of Ecuador on a small group tour that showcases the renowned Otavalo Market and the iconic Middle of the World monument. This excursion provides a personalized experience, led by a knowledgeable guide who’ll share insights into local traditions. Discover the market’s handcrafted textiles and unique artisanal goods before stepping across the equator at the Middle of the World site. The tour also includes the opportunity to savor traditional Ecuadorian cuisine, offering a well-rounded culture. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or new to the country, this itinerary promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for Ecuador’s captivating heritage.

About Your Stay

• This one-day small group tour combines visits to the renowned Otavalo Market and the Middle of the World monument, providing a comprehensive cultural experience.
• The tour is led by a professional guide and includes admission to the Middle of the World, allowing participants to stand on the Equatorial line.
• Convenient hotel pickups and drop-offs ensure an efficient experience, with the first departure at 7:00 AM and the last at 8:15 AM.
• Visitors can explore the vibrant Otavalo Market, known for its handcrafted textiles, leather goods, and jewelry, and interact with friendly local vendors.
• The tour does not include meals, encouraging participants to explore the local Ecuadorian cuisine at their own leisure.

Tour Overview

This day tour offers travelers the opportunity to explore the vibrant Otavalo Market and visit the iconic Middle of the World monument in a single excursion.

Led by a professional guide, the tour accommodates up to 25 participants, providing an intimate and personalized experience. The tour includes admission to the Middle of the World, where visitors can stand on the Equatorial line.

While food and drinks aren’t specified, the tour offers the flexibility to explore Otavalo’s diverse culinary offerings on your own.

With convenient hotel pickups and drop-offs, this tour provides a well-organized and efficient way to discover two of Ecuador’s top attractions in a single day.

What to Expect

Upon arrival at the meeting point, travelers are greeted by their knowledgeable guide, who provides a brief overview of the day’s itinerary.

This small-group tour promises an immersive experience, visiting:

• The famous Otavalo Market, where local artisans showcase their vibrant textiles, crafts, and produce.
• The Equatorial Monument, standing at the "Middle of the World," with the opportunity to straddle the northern and southern hemispheres.
• A traditional Andean lunch, allowing participants to savor the flavors of Ecuadorian cuisine.
• The Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve, offering breathtaking views of the volcanic crater landscape.

Throughout the day, the guide shares insights into the culture, history, and natural wonders of Ecuador, ensuring a well-rounded and memorable experience.

Pickup Information

The tour provides convenient pickup options from a variety of hotels and a central meeting point in Quito. Passengers can board the tour at one of the specified pickup locations, with the first departure at 7:00 AM and the last at 8:15 AM. The pickup schedule is as follows:

Pickup Location	Pickup Time
Patio Andaluz	7:00
Hilton Colon	7:15
Mercure Alameda	7:18
Reina Isabel	7:22
Río Amazonas	7:26

If a hotel is not specified, the default meeting point is the NH Collection Hotel at 7:40 AM.

Visiting Otavalo Market

After the convenient hotel pickups, the tour makes its way to the famous Otavalo Market.

This bustling marketplace is renowned for its vibrant array of handcrafted textiles, leather goods, jewelry, and more.

Visitors can expect to:

• Wander through rows of stalls, each bursting with unique artisanal products
• Interact with the friendly local vendors and learn about their craftsmanship
• Haggle for the best prices on sought-after souvenirs and keepsakes
• Immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere of this cultural hub

The Otavalo Market offers an unparalleled shopping experience, allowing travelers to connect with the region’s rich traditions and talented artisans.

The Middle of the World

Next, the tour makes its way to the Middle of the World, a famous landmark located just outside of Quito. This site marks the location where the equator intersects the Earth’s surface, as determined by an 18th-century French expedition. Visitors can stand with one foot on each side of the equator, take photos, and explore the interactive exhibits at the Intiñan Solar Museum nearby.

Attraction	Description
Equator Monument	A large monument marking the equatorial line
Intiñan Solar Museum	Interactive exhibits on Andean culture and the equator
Equatorial Line	The opportunity to stand with one foot on each side of the equator

The tour allows visitors to experience this iconic location and learn about its historical significance.

Tour Inclusions

This tour includes a professional guide to lead the group throughout the day. The guide will provide expert commentary and insights about the sights visited.

The tour also includes:

• Entrance to the iconic Middle of the World monument, where visitors can stand on the equatorial line
• Optional gratuities for the guide and any other service providers
• Food and drinks aren’t specified, allowing travelers to explore local cuisine on their own

While the tour doesn’t include meals, it provides a well-rounded experience, taking visitors to the famous Otavalo artisan market and the globally significant Middle of the World site in a single day.

Additional Details

The tour’s pickup schedule provides convenient access for travelers staying at various hotels and meeting points in Quito. The tour starts at 07:40 am and returns to the meeting point at the NH Collection Hotel. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate. Infants must sit on laps. The tour is near public transportation.

Pickup Available	From selected hotels or meeting point
Meeting Point	NH Collection Hotel, Luis Cordero 444, Quito 170143, Ecuador
Pickup Schedule	7:00 am – 8:15 am
Tour Start Time	7:40 am
Tour End Point	Returns to meeting point

Questions About Your Stay

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, you can request a private tour instead of a group tour. LIV Ecuador offers private tours for those who prefer a more personalized experience. Speak to the tour operator for availability and pricing.

Can I Book This Tour for a Different Day Than Saturday?

Yes, you can book this tour for a different day than Saturday. The tour operator, LIV Ecuador, offers this tour on various days throughout the week, subject to availability and schedule. You’ll need to check their calendar or contact them directly to inquire about alternative tour dates.

How Long Is the Drive From Quito to Otavalo?

The drive from Quito to Otavalo takes approximately 1.5 hours each way. The distance is around 100 kilometers, and the route winds through scenic mountain landscapes. Traffic can vary, so the total travel time may differ.

Is It Possible to Extend the Tour to Include Other Activities?

Yes, the tour can be extended to include other activities. Travelers can request additional stops or experiences during booking, though this may incur extra costs. The tour operator can provide options to customize the itinerary to meet individual needs.

What Should I Bring on the Tour to Make the Most of the Experience?

To make the most of the tour, bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a camera, and a small backpack or daypack. Pack snacks and water, as food and drinks aren’t included. Dress in layers for the variable weather.

Final Verdict On This Stay

This immersive tour offers a chance to experience the vibrant culture of Ecuador. Visitors can explore the renowned Otavalo Market, discover the iconic Middle of the World monument, and savor traditional Ecuadorian cuisine, all while enjoying a personalized small group experience led by a knowledgeable guide. It’s an opportunity to explore the country’s rich heritage and traditions.