The lush rainforests of Ecuador are home to a number of indigenous groups, each with their own unique culture. Much of the commerce among these groups is done in colorful markets set up around the country, especially the regions of Sierra and Otavalo.
Saquisilí
The largest indigenous market in the country is an economic hub for the locals living in the Ecuadorean highlands. In addition to local crafts, there are food stalls selling the traditional cuisine of the Andes, often made from livestock and produce bought at the same market. Visitors have the option of staying at the nearby La Cienega, a restored hacienda more than 300 years old.
Latacunga
Latacunga is a town sitting on a plateau, surrounded by nine volcanic cones, including Cotopaxi, one of the highest active volcanoes in the world. The town’s market is home to many fine artists who utilize the region’s light gray pumice rock. There are also many food stalls specializing in the regional favorite, chugchucaras, which is a dish made up of fried pork served over plantains.
Zumbahua
Located in the small town of Tigua, this market offers a cross section of Ecuadorean life for sale. Artisans sell native paintings, jewelry and textiles, and you can get livestock at a good price here. An adult llama will run you $40, a little more than a handmade rug.
Otavalo
Known as the “Plaza de Ponchos,” Otavalo is the most famous market in all of Ecuador, selling everything from local handicrafts to spices to livestock. One particularly popular product is the Jipiiapa, more commonly known as the Panama Hat. These hats worn by workers on the Panama Canal were made by Otavalon weavers, utilizing techniques originating from the indigenous people of the Imbabura Province.
Read This Next
Adventure in Ecuador on Tren Crucero
Adventure
Oct 16, 2014All Reads on This Topic
Read Them All
#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedDestinations / Europe
Nov 20, 2024Where to Find the Best Stargazing Spots in Ireland
This year, the Northern Lights put on quite the display across Ireland, but don’t think these lights are the only thing you can see in Ireland. In fact, many spots across the country provide some of the best opportunities to stargaze thanks to low levels of light pollution. Ireland has three International Dark Sky Parks and even more spots which, although not accredited, are worth a visit for anyone wishing to see the sky in its unfiltered form.
Sponsored Content
Seoul: Your Favorite Worldwide City
Seoul is the place for your next bleisure destination.
Hotel
Nov 19, 2024A New Ritz-Carlton Comes to Cancún
After a hiatus, The Ritz-Carlton brand is coming back to Cancún, with the 2027 opening of The Ritz-Carlton, Cancún, Punta Nizuc.
Hotel
Nov 19, 2024Hilton, Universal Pictures Debut Suite Inspired by Wicked
Hilton and Universal Pictures invite fans of Wicked to indulge in a spellbinding stay in a new, spectacular themed suite. From Nov. 21–Jan. 5, travelers can ‘Stay Like’ Wicked at New York Hilton Midtown.
Sponsored Content
Discover Greece’s Tower Towns: A Journey Through History
Greece's tower towns offer a captivating blend of history, architecture and stunning landscapes that make them perfect for curious travelers. These towns, particularly found in the Mani region of the Peloponnese, are defined by stone towers built during the medieval period. Constructed for both defense and as symbols of family pride, the towers stand as a testament to the region's turbulent history and its residents’ resilience.
Dining/Entertainment
Nov 19, 2024Go Teepee Dining on the Beach at This Puerto Vallarta Resort
During a recent trip to Puerto Vallarta, I stayed at Casa Velas, where we also had access to all of the restaurants, experiences and events going on at its sister property Velas Vallarta. One night for dinner, our group put on our best tropical attire and headed to Velas Vallarta for a Teepee Dinner right on the beach.
ShareThis