Experience Quito's vibrant markets, from traditional indigenous markets to artisan fairs, discovering local culture and authentic Ecuadorian products

Quito's markets are vibrant centers of local life, where traditional indigenous markets, artisan fairs, and local commerce showcase authentic Ecuadorian culture, making market tours perfect for experiencing Quito's authentic local life! Market tours take you through Quito's markets, from browsing traditional textiles and crafts to experiencing local commerce, from tasting fresh produce to learning about Ecuadorian traditions, and from interacting with vendors to discovering why markets are essential to understanding Quito culture. Experience the vibrancy of Quito's markets, shop for authentic Ecuadorian crafts, learn about local traditions and products, and discover why market tours offer fascinating insights into everyday Quito life. Whether you're seeking traditional crafts, fresh produce, or comprehensive market experiences, market tours provide engaging journeys that showcase the vibrant commerce that makes Quito culturally authentic. From textiles to handicrafts, from food to traditions, market tours ensure you experience the authentic local life that defines Quito!
Discover our top picks for market tours in Quito

Visit the tourist highlights in the province of Imbabura where you can visit the largest Indigenous Market in Latin America in Otavalo.

Andres (the owner) will meet you at your hotel, if your hotel is close to the market we will walk there, if not we will take my comfy SUV. Andres will first take you for a tour in the traditional Central Market and surroundings to hunt for fresh local products that you will use during your cooking class. Then you will head to the restaurant which is located in a beautiful Colonial house in the heart of Old Town Quito. During this tour, you will experience life as a local and will learn how to make 3 traditional dishes, which you can replicate back home. Get ready for a packed day filled with incredible sights, tastes, and smells. And at the end of it all, you will be able to enjoy the delicious meal you cooked. Highly recommended experience!

If you love food, or just want to know the gastronomy of another country, this tour is for you...!! You will get to know the new city, among its parks and buildings, visit restaurants that offer Ecuadorian food, have an explosion of flavors in your mouth, while you learn the history of food and your guide explains funny stories and secret places. ☺️ You can also visit the “Artisanal Market” if you want to bring souvenirs of the country, such as ponchos, hats, etc., and you will know a local market of the city where you will observe fruits, food, etc. - REMEMBER THAT THIS TOUR IS FOR “CARNIVORES AND VEGETARIANS” - NOT A TOUR FOR “VEGANS” - “ONE DISH OF FOOD FOR EVERY TWO PEOPLE” IS INCLUDED IN EACH RESTAURANT

With this day tour you get the opportunity to visit the breathtaking Quilotoa Crater lake, located about 2.5 hours south of Quito this emerald colored lake is one of a kind. You will get the opportunity to visit a local indigenous market and hike down to the lake and even go for a swim if you like!

Private Tour; focused on sharing our history from a more indigenous context and point of view; highway full of prehispanic evidence, roses production, solar knowledge, cultural heritage, food, and history. Starting with a local brunch and coffee at San Pablo's Lake with 2 of the most important volcanoes in front of us! Continues a nature walk around their spiritual waterfall temple called Peguche! Heading to Otavalo we will enjoy and understand their history, traditions, gastronomy, and culture at their main square known worldwide as "Plaza de Los Ponchos", one of the most beautiful artisan markets in América. Is a good, interesting, and cheap way to enjoy a full day trip not far from Quito and for buying local high-quality original cheap handmade Andean products or souvenirs. Accompanied by a certificated Tour Guide/Driver, an open-minded cultural ambient, good music, and nice conversations. For customized service. Find me on media as MUFI TOURS Feel free to ask! LGBTIQ 420 friendly.

Learn the legends of Quito on this tour through the city’s historic centre. Visit the market where every kiosk tells a story, and uncover local culture and customs as you explore the heart of Old Town. See where the Spanish city was born and revolutions sparked. Take a break with a hands-on sweet treat – making your own ice cream using ingredients you’ll only find in South America.

The Otavalo cultural tour is a wonderful way to discover and combine the famous artisan indigenous market in Ecuador with some of the most amazing views nearby the capital. Wander around one of the most famous indigenous markets of South America, walk on the Equator Line, taste delicious bizcochos, hike around the beautiful Cuicocha Laguna, visit the Cotacachi leather-town and savour a local lunch - the perfect mix of culture, nature, history, and gastronomy.

This is a fun and relaxing tour of Otavalo Market. You will make stops at great foodie sites, check out a beautiful lake, visit the Quitsato sundial, have a great cup of Ecuadorian coffee, savor some tasty bizcochos and string cheese, have the best slice of pie in Ecuador, enjoy lunch at a gourmet sandwich and burger stop in Cotacachi (Leather town) and shop till you drop at the renowned Otavalo Indigenous marketplace. It´s all about having fun, eating great food, and enjoying life as a local in Ecuador.

Visit the vibrant markets of Otavalo and Cotacachi on this full-day tour from Quito. Enjoy beautiful viewpoints, a delicious lunch, and an optional boat ride on Cuicocha Lake. This shared tour includes pickup and drop-off from two convenient locations in Quito.

Travel with me as your guide for an unparalleled journey. With a deep passion for storytelling and a commitment to personalized experiences, I transform ordinary trips into extraordinary adventures. My in-depth knowledge, cultural insights, and seamless logistics ensure a stress-free exploration. Whether delving into historical marvels, savoring local flavors or embracing nature's wonders. Every moment is tailored to your desires. From vibrant markets to hidden gems, I unveil the heart of each destination, fostering a connection that transcends the ordinary. Choose me as your guide, and let's embark on a transformative voyage where every step is a discovery. Start at Quitsato, where you’ll stand on the equator and learn its history. Enjoy buttery bizcochos in Cayambe, then dive into the lively Plaza de Ponchos, filled with colorful crafts by Otavaleño artisans. Visit Cotacachi, famed for its fine leather goods, before ending at the serene Peguche Waterfall, a sacred natural wonder.

Looking for an even more authentic experience of Quito? During this private tour you will be taken on an unforgettable journey through the largest and best preserved historic centre of South America, where you will visit the most important sights such as the Independance Square, La Compañia Church, San Francisco Square and el Panecillo. But the highlight of this exciting excursion will be the visit to two of the most traditional markets in Quito; the San Francisco Food market and the Mariscal Handicraft market.

Otavalo is one of the most famous indigenous fair in the country; although the market has greater activity on Saturdays but it is open every day with an impressive variety of handcrafts, tapestries and weaving made by indigenous people of the surrounding villages. Meanwhile, tourists test their Spanish and bargaining skills at stalls vending colorful and inexpensive knitted sweaters, hats, gloves and much more.

Explore one of the oldest indigenous markets in South America. Visit Quitsato, the astronomical middle of the world. Standing on two hemispheres is only possible on the equator line. Visit the largest agave garden in South America. See a traditional workshop where textiles are still made by hand on a backstrap loom. Walk to the ancient waterfall where the natives used to initiate the ceremonies of the Inti-raymi or festival of the sun. Visit the Ñanda Mañachi; a workshop of Andean instruments. What day can I visit the Otavalo Market? The market operates everyday, however on Wednesdays there is a larger influx of people and on Saturdays the market is bigger because all the market merchants show their products.

Visit a wonderful and charming rose plantation while you go towards the Northern Andes of Ecuador and also stand at the most accurate site where the equator line goes through..! Have a very relaxing time at the largest Indian Market of South America, and explore Otavalo's surrounding areas in the comfort of a private day tour from Quito! Make your stay in the capital city of Ecuador an unforgettable life experience!!

All Inclusive: - Bilingual professional guide - Ecuadorian lunch and sightseeing tours Tourist Transportation: - From Quito - Otavalo - Quito Activities: - Hike in stunning landscapes - Visit to the indigenous market of Otavalo - Discover the Plaza de Ponchos - Panoramic views from the Mirador of Lake San Pablo - Explore Cotacachi and its renowned leather craftsmanship Quality and Professionalism: - Exceptional service with a professional touch Availability of Tours: - Shared tour: Every Tuesday and Saturday - Private tour: Every day
Experience authentic traditional markets!
Shop for authentic Ecuadorian textiles and crafts.
Learn about Ecuadorian traditions and local life.
See authentic local commerce and culture.
Tours visiting traditional indigenous and local markets.
Tours focusing on artisan crafts and textiles.
Tours emphasizing fresh produce and traditional foods.
Full tours covering diverse market experiences.
Market tours: 3-4 hours. Extended tours: 4-6 hours visiting multiple markets.
Browse traditional markets, crafts, and local products.
Interact with vendors and learn about products.
Learn about Ecuadorian traditions and local commerce.
Purchase authentic Ecuadorian crafts and textiles.
Photography of markets and products (respect vendors).
Market tours showcase authentic Quito culture
Bring cash for purchasing crafts
Traditional markets best for authentic products
Bargaining acceptable at markets
Market tours highlight local life
Markets vibrant and colorful
Market tours essential for experiencing Quito culture
Crafts excellent souvenirs
A: Quito offers vibrant markets including Otavalo Market (famous, artisan, textiles), indigenous markets (traditional, authentic), artisan markets (crafts, quality), and local markets (daily commerce, fresh produce) providing diverse market experiences! Otavalo Market most famous - traditional textiles. Indigenous markets authentic. Markets showcase Ecuadorian crafts. Essential for experiencing culture. Must-visit - traditional markets. Stunning craft markets. Vibrant market culture!
A: Market tours: $35-65 per person including guide. Extended market tours: $60-100 per person. Private market tours: $80-150 per person. Prices typically include guide. Budget separately for purchases. Book through reputable operators. Tours excellent value for market experiences. Essential for experiencing local culture. Market tours worth the cost!
A: Markets offer Ecuadorian crafts including traditional textiles, alpaca products, handmade jewelry, pottery, leather goods, and various artisan products providing excellent authentic Ecuadorian souvenirs! Textiles most famous - traditional designs. Alpaca products quality. Crafts authentic and well-made. Markets offer great souvenir opportunities. Essential for souvenir shopping. Must-buy - authentic crafts. Stunning Ecuadorian products. Great shopping destination!
A: Yes, bargaining generally acceptable at markets, though respectful bargaining recommended! Traditional markets expect some bargaining. However, be fair and respectful. Fixed prices at some artisan markets. Guides help with bargaining. Bargaining part of market culture. Respectful bargaining welcome. Essential to bargain respectfully!
A: Basic market tours: 3-4 hours visiting key markets and crafts. Extended market tours: 4-6 hours with multiple markets and detailed exploration. Most visitors find 3-4 hour tours perfect for market overview. Tours flexible based on shopping interests. Allow adequate time for browsing and purchasing. Pace allows time for market exploration. Market tours worth taking time. Tours provide comprehensive market experience!
A: Comfortable walking shoes and casual clothing suitable for walking and browsing! Comfortable footwear essential - markets involve walking. Comfortable clothing for walking. Light backpack helpful for purchases. Practical, comfortable clothing most important. Comfortable footwear most important. Dress for walking and shopping. Practical and comfortable clothing best!
A: Yes! Market tours family-friendly with colorful markets and interesting crafts suitable for all ages! Children may enjoy seeing crafts and colorful markets. Markets can be crowded - ensure children comfortable. Educational experience for families. Many families enjoy market tours. Perfect for families wanting cultural experiences. Consider children's interests. Family-friendly with appropriate supervision!
A: Market tours important for experiencing authentic Ecuadorian culture, learning about traditions through commerce, purchasing authentic products, and understanding local life in Quito creating essential cultural experience! Markets showcase authentic culture. Crafts demonstrate traditions. Local commerce fascinating. Essential for experiencing Ecuadorian culture. Must-experience - vibrant markets. Cultural tours highlight local life. Essential for cultural understanding!
UNESCO World Heritage Old Town
Famous Equator line monument
Beautiful colonial architecture
Rich cultural heritage
Excellent Andean cuisine
Perfect blend of history and culture
Quito enjoys a mild highland climate with consistent temperatures year-round. Average temperatures range from 50°F (10°C) to 70°F (21°C).
June to September offers the best weather with dry conditions.
June to September brings peak tourist season with ideal weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.
October to May offers lower prices and fewer crowds, though with more rain.
Explore comprehensive guides to plan your perfect trip, including food tours, cultural experiences, and more.
Explore Quito's diverse architecture, from colonial to modern, discovering the architectural evolution that showcases Ecuador's cultural heritage
Explore Quito's spectacular churches and religious architecture, from ornate baroque churches to historic monasteries showcasing Catholic heritage
Discover Quito's rich Ecuadorian culture, from traditional markets to cultural sites, experiencing the traditions and heritage that define the Andean capital
Visit the Middle of the World, standing on the Equator line, experiencing the unique geographic location that makes Quito the world's highest capital
Explore Quito's UNESCO World Heritage Old Town, discovering perfectly preserved colonial architecture, historic plazas, and centuries of Ecuadorian history
Walking is perfect for exploring the Old Town. Public transportation and taxis connect different areas, and organized tours include transportation.
Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.
Find the perfect accommodation for your Quito adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.
Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Trivago USA.