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!

Otavalo Market

Indigenous produce sellers in the food market.

Otavalo Market

Everything is so COLORFUL in Otavalo!

Otavalo Market

These fried mashed potato cakes are the best ever!!! Served with mystery meat, salad, and salsa! $1 per plate.

Otavalo Market

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!

Otavalo Market

The Saturday market is torture for a jewelry-lover on a budget like me!

Otavalo Market

Need a snack while shopping? How about some snails??

Otavalo Market

Beautiful fabrics.

Otavalo Market

This woman made Zach’s awesome poncho, our first souvenir of the whole trip!

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