This morning, we leave Quito behind and head north into Ecuador’s scenic lake district in the Otavalo region.

Our first stop is the Quitsato Museum, where we’ll briefly visit the Equator line. Here, a large sundial marks the spot where you can stand with one foot in the Northern Hemisphere and the other in the Southern Hemisphere, a perfect photo opportunity!

Next, we visit Claudia and her family, a traditional Otavalan household on the outskirts of town. They welcome us in Quichua, their ancestral language, before we experience their rich cultural traditions. Ladies can try on traditional Otavalan headwear, and we’ll explore their kitchen garden and learn about age-old cooking techniques in the ancestral kitchen. Then, we roll up our sleeves for a hands-on cooking class, preparing a delicious, fresh lunch using ingredients from the garden and local markets. This immersive experience is the highlight of our day.

After enjoying our well-deserved, homemade meal, we head into town to explore the famous Otavalo Market. Known for its vibrant handicrafts, the market showcases colourful woven textiles, handmade musical instruments, and other artisanal products from across Ecuador.

At the end of the day, we return to Quito, reflecting on the rich cultural experiences and warm hospitality we encountered.

Check out our Otavalo Cooking Class Review blog for more insights into this activity.