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A May 2005 trip to Otavalo by Jack Bauer

 Panama Hat stall Photo - Otavalo, Ecuador More Photos
Quote: You have the chance to buy South American artisans for good prices at this highly recommended market. If you're a shopaholic, then you need to come here. There are also some great photo opportunities!
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Overview

 Panama Hat stall Photo - Otavalo, Ecuador
Quote:
This is one of the best markets in South America. There are lots of artisans to buy from. There is also an animal market, but we didn't see it. It is a great place to buy hats, scarves, jumpers, and panama hats. Bargain hard, as they come down in price a lot, not something I have found in other South American markets. We started at 7:30am and wearily finished the day at 5pm in a bar overlooking the market traders packing away! There are good photo opportunities, but some people didn't like to have theirs taken, so ask beforehand or use that zoom! There are lake tours, too. We didn't go, but they were from 7:30 to 12pm and 8am to 2pm on the Sunday. We ate in two Italian places with very good live An...Read More
Quote:
Hostal Los Andes! It’s $7 for a single and $12 for a double. Rooms with balconies with a view over the market are the best. They have an excellent hot shower, it is carpeted and clean, and there is also cable TV! Try to reserve for Friday nights, as most places in Otavalo fill up for the Saturday market. Room C6 is the best room and has the biggest balcony and views, but C7 is also good. It's good to get those discreet photographs that we all want, but are sometimes too difficult to get. We are backpacking our way around Latin America, but enjoy a nice, clean, quiet room to relax in, and at this price, this has been one of our best deals.

Member Rating 4 out of 5 on July 27, 2005

Hostal Los Andes
Plaza de Ponchos
Otavalo, Ecuador
(06) 2 921 057