The friendly and prosperous town of Otavalo is famous for its giant Saturday market, where traditionally dressed indigenous people sell handicrafts to hordes of foreigners who pour in every weekend to get in on the deals. Despite the market’s popularity, the otavaleños themselves remain self-determined and culturally uncompromised.
I only had one day in Otavalo – and it wasn’t a Saturday. However the setting was fabulous, and the entire experience enchanting.
Next stage: Ipiales (Colombia).