Famous for its spectacular Saturday market, the community of Otavalo retains many cultural traditions that indigenous Otavaleños have practiced since the Pre-Colombian era. When planning a trip to Otavalo, try to be there for a Saturday morning. There is a market on other days, but the Saturday market by far the most impressive. We highly recommend the following hotels:

Hotel Ali Shungu, Otavalo - Hotel Ali Shungu, garden hotel and restaurant, is located less than four blocks from the world famous Otavalo Indian Craft market.  You will enjoy well heated rooms, beautiful folklore decor, plenty of steaming hot water, free wi-fi internet access, as well as a computer here at the hotel, safe parking, and the renowned Ali Shungu gourmet Vegetarian/Meat restaurant.  We also offer spacious Apartment Suites for your family.  All rooms are quiet, comfortable, and overlook our patio and bird-filled gardens.  Since 1991 Hotel Ali Shungu has been considered 'the best Hotel and Restaurant in Otavalo!'

Hacienda Cusin, San Pablo del Lago - A luxurious country inn amidst eternally blooming gardens and nearly 400 years of colonial history. Located near Otavalo in a spectacular natural setting at the foot of the dormant Imbabura volcano, activites like horsebackriding, mountain biking, and high tea on the balcony are not to be missed. The Tatler, London, 12/96 says "... one of the world's best kept secrets."

La Casa Sol, Otavalo - "More than just a hotel, a home with personality." Highly recommended by top travel magazines and recognized by local authorities and travel agencies as a new option for getting to know the natural and cultural treasures of Ecuador. Located in the Peguche Waterfall Forest Reserve, three kilometers north of Otavalo, it is designed with guests' complete comfort in mind. Created to be reminiscent of an authentic Ecuadorian country home, each room features a balcony, terrace, garden and fireplace.

Hotel Doña Esther, Otavalo - This small colonial style hotel is conveniently located in the center of Otavalo, near the Saturday market. All the rooms are situated around an inner courtyard. Attaced to the hotel is the exquisite restaurant Árbol de Montalvo.

Casa Mojanda - A dramatic mountainside inn, organic farm and retreat located above the town of Otavalo in the foothills of Mojanda featuring spacious rammed earth cottages with magnificent mountain vistas. Casa Mojanda seeks to exert a minimal impact on the natural environment while actively supporting local community traditions and culture as well as projects in rural public health, education and conservation of the Mojanda Lakes paramo, forests and watershed.

Andean woman at Otavalo market.

Las Palmeras - Situated on a verdant hillside just north of the equator and a short walk from the world famous Otavalo indigenous marketplace, Las Palmeras is a place of astounding beauty and undisturbed tranquility. A gorgeous, comfortable, fully-equipped cottage set below the towering peaks of Imbabura and Cotacachi will be your home away from home as the scent of bougainvillea, palm trees, perennial flowers, and a blossoming blackberry orchard fill the air around you and a variety of birds perform a private concierto for you. Transportation and a variety of tours available.

Hacienda Pinsaquí - Ideally situated at the base of the Imbabura Volcano, just north of the world-famous Otavalo market and only two hours from Quito. Constructed in 1790, the hacienda boasts a rich history and has hosted such illustrious guests as Simon Bolivar, the revered liberator of Ecuador. In addition to its centuries of history, the hacienda offers its quests luxurious accommodations and a range of activities, including horseback riding, mountain biking, and hiking.