Getting to and away from Otavalo

By Nili Larish

Buses for Otavalo leave from Quito’s Terminal Terrestre every twenty minutes. The ride is 2 to 3 hours north and costs $2. Los Lagos (Tel: 572266 / 572267) and Co-op Otavalo (510323) are two bus companies that go to Otavalo. Though it is possible to catch the bus along its route in Quito, it is far less of a hassle to just go to the station.

As Otavalo is a stop along the Panamerican highway, it is fairly easy to get to from most anywhere. Bus rides generally cost $1 per hour.

To get back to Quito from Otavalo, head to the bus station just a few blocks past the edge of the market and listen carefully – there is bound to be someone yelling, “Quito! Quito!”, who can direct you to the right bus. Buses can get quite full during the weekends, when the town explodes with travelers itching for a bargain.