Market day in Otavalo (pop. 22,000) is a must for any traveler
to Ecuador. Every Saturday, Amerindians from the surrounding
villages gather to sell produce, livestock, woolen goods and
other handicrafts. The market is well known by tour groups, so
don't go expecting to be the only tourist, but do go: Otavalo
is a truly unique Ecuadorean experience.
The people are a sight in themselves. The men of the area dress
in traditional white pants, blue or gray ponchos and felt hats
and have their hair braided in long pigtails; the women wear
white blouses with black sashes and skirts and lots of gold-colored
necklaces. You're likely to see other distinctive outfits, as
well, as people from surrounding regions also come to Otavalo
to buy and sell goods. Hostels in Otavalo |