Otavalo Market – South America’s Greatest Mercado
Otavalo, Ecuador, was my absolute FAVORITE place on our trip so far. It was just indescribably cool. The main attraction is the Otavalo Market. It is a massive Saturday crafts market – supposedly the biggest in South America! Tons of traditionally-attired Quechua locals take over the streets of the whole town center, selling beautiful artwork, handicrafts, livestock, clothing, anything you can imagine! We also LOVED the food market, and all the great but cheap restaurants around town. In general, Otavalo struck me as a excellent place to chill and enjoy a small-town atmosphere, while simultaneously soaking up indigenous Ecuadorian culture in a beautiful environment! I wish we could have stayed longer. Really though, the pictures have to do the talking!
These fried mashed potato cakes are the best ever!!! Served with mystery meat, salad, and salsa! $1 per plate.
The indigenous people of Otavalo are famous for their awesome felt hats. I kind of wanted this one, but didn’t want to pack it for 8 more months!
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