DAY 11 – Otavalo market and the Equator

• • Early morning trip to Otavalo Market. The town itself sits at the foot of the Imbabura volcano 50 miles North of Quito on the Pan-American Highway and is one of the world most famous outdoor marketplaces where the Otavaleño Andeans offering the most spectacular indigenous tribal craft and textiles they are producing for generations. This artisan market in the Plaza de Ponchos is undoubtedly one of the most important and spectacular markets in all of Latin America and the largest in all of South America. You will experience here mainly the local Andean culture and spend an unforgettable morning among them. It’s the best place to stock up on souvenirs and gifts for everyone back home!
• • The Otavalo Saturday’s animal market dates back to pre-Inca times when jungle products were brought up from the Amazon and traded for highland goods. The animal market is a veritable menagerie of animals to eat and buy like cuyes (guinea pigs), goat herds and skinned calf heads mingling with the sound of Andean pipes, and the indigenous sound of Quichua, the native tongue. Locals arrive to buy chickens, pigs and vegetables.
• • Our final destination of this Challenging trip is La Mitad del Mundo (The Middle of the World). The Equator point as measured by the Global Positioning System, where we will witness several experiments that demonstrate the Coriolis effect of the hemisphere and explore the History and culture of the Ecuadorian Andeans.
• • Back to Quito – Farewell dinner.

Accomodations: HOTEL QUITO
Included Meals: Breakfast and Farewell Dinner.

***Itinerary is subject to change. Alternate itineraries may be available***