Frequently asked questions
Otavalo: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is June-September. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Otavalo: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +15.1°C, during the day — up to +15.1°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Otavalo: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +6.9°C, during the day — up to +10.4°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Otavalo: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on October-May. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Otavalo: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $66.00 (≈ 5 539 ₽) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the
trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Otavalo: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $15.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $50.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $80.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $150.00 per night, an apartment — $50.00 per night, a villa — $120.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Otavalo: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $5.00, dinner at a restaurant — $10.00, a cup of cappuccino — $2.50, a 0.5L beer — $2.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $0.50. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Otavalo: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $60.00, a single public transport ticket — $0.35, a short taxi ride — $2.00, car rental — $40.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Otavalo: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Plaza de Ponchos — Largest indigenous market in South America, famous for textiles and crafts; Peguche Waterfall — Scenic waterfall 10 minutes from town, popular picnic spot; Cuicocha Lake — Crater lake in volcanic complex, popular for trekking; Lake San Pablo — Scenic lake at the foot of Imbabura volcano; Cotacachi — Town of leather craftsmen, popular for shopping. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Otavalo: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Locro — Potato soup with corn and avocado, popular Andean dish; Hornado — Roasted pork with corn and potatoes, traditional dish; Ceviche — Fresh fish or seafood marinated in lime; Empanadas — Fried pastries with meat or cheese, popular snack; Cuy — Roasted guinea pig, traditional Andean dish. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Otavalo: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Otavalo Center — Main area with market, hotels, and restaurants; Plaza de Ponchos — Main market area with hotels and restaurants; Otavalo Surroundings — Rural area with guest farms and hotels. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Otavalo: is a visa required?
Visa: not required (up to 90 days). Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Otavalo: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Международный аэропорт Марискаль Сукре (code UIO). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $60.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Otavalo: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — USD. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $66.00 (≈ 5 539 ₽). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Otavalo: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Otavalo: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as low. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
Otavalo: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Peguche Waterfall — Scenic waterfall, 10 minutes away; Cuicocha Lake — Crater lake, 30 minutes away; Lake San Pablo — Scenic lake, 15 minutes away; Cotacachi — Town of leather craftsmen, 20 minutes away. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.
