Welcome to Otavalo, a city renowned for its vibrant markets that are as colorful as the tapestry of cultures residing within. Expats and digital nomads will find that Otavalo offers a unique shopping experience, with markets that range from sprawling open-air bazaars to quaint indoor spaces. Each market has its own charm and specializes in different goods, from handcrafted textiles and jewelry to fresh produce and local delicacies. Here are some of the best markets in Otavalo that you simply cannot miss.
Plaza de los Ponchos
Location: Between Calle Sucre and Jaramillo
Type of Market: Artisanal and Textile Market
Open: Daily, 8-5 (with Saturday being the main market day)
Plaza de los Ponchos is the most famous market in Otavalo and one of the largest indigenous markets in South America. On Saturdays, the market expands beyond its usual borders to fill the surrounding streets with a kaleidoscope of colors from the textiles and handicrafts on display. It’s a cultural experience as much as a shopping destination, with artisans from the surrounding Andean communities coming to sell their wares.
We Recommend: The handwoven tapestries and alpaca wool sweaters are not only beautiful but also a testament to the rich textile tradition of the Andean people.
Food Market at Mercado 24 de Mayo
Location: Calle 24 de Mayo and Modesto Jaramillo
Type of Market: Food Market
Open: Daily, 6-5
For a taste of local life, the Mercado 24 de Mayo is the place to be. This bustling food market offers an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and spices. It’s also a great spot to try some traditional Ecuadorian street food or to stock up on ingredients if you’re looking to cook a meal at home.
We Recommend: Sample some of the fresh juices made from exotic fruits you might not find elsewhere, or grab a serving of hornado, a slow-roasted pork dish that’s a local favorite.
Artesanias El Gran Condor
Location: Calle Morales and Sucre
Type of Market: Handicrafts and Souvenir Market
Open: Daily, 9-6
El Gran Condor is a family-run market known for its high-quality handicrafts. Here, you can find a wide selection of jewelry, musical instruments, and wood carvings. The market is smaller and more intimate, allowing for a more relaxed shopping experience and the opportunity to chat with the artisans themselves.
We Recommend: Look out for the beautifully crafted Andean flutes and charangos, traditional stringed instruments that make for a unique and melodious souvenir.
Animal Market
Location: Corner of Panamericana and Selva Alegre
Type of Market: Livestock Market
Open: Saturdays, early morning until noon
The Animal Market is a fascinating cultural experience where local farmers come to buy and sell livestock. It’s a lively scene, with everything from chickens and pigs to llamas and cows being traded. While it may not be the place to buy souvenirs, it offers a glimpse into the agricultural lifestyle of the region.
We Recommend: While you might not be in the market for livestock, the animal market is an excellent spot for photography and experiencing a slice of local life.
Indigenous Medicine Market
Location: Near Mercado 24 de Mayo
Type of Market: Traditional Medicine Market
Open: Daily, 8-6
This unique market is where indigenous healers, known as curanderos, sell herbs, roots, and other natural remedies used in traditional medicine. It’s a place to discover the ancient healing traditions of the Andes and to learn about the medicinal properties of various plants.
We Recommend: Even if you’re not looking for cures, the market is a great place to find aromatic herbs and incense to freshen up your living space.
El Mercadito
Location: Calle Modesto Jaramillo
Type of Market: Boutique Market
Open: Daily, 9-6
El Mercadito is a charming little market that offers a curated selection of artisanal goods, including organic chocolate, coffee, and unique gifts. It’s a great place to find high-quality, locally-sourced products and to support small-scale producers.
We Recommend: Try the locally produced chocolate bars with exotic flavors like passion fruit or Andean blueberry for a sweet taste of Ecuador.
Leather Market of Cotacachi
Location: A short drive from Otavalo, in the town of Cotacachi
Type of Market: Leather Goods Market
Open: Daily, 9-6
While not in Otavalo itself, the Leather Market in Cotacachi is well worth the trip for anyone looking for high-quality leather goods. The town is famous for its leather artisans, and the market features everything from jackets and boots to bags and belts.
We Recommend: Custom-made leather boots are a popular choice, offering both comfort and style, tailored to your exact measurements.
