Chaski Route & Otavalo treasures

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Day 1: Quito – Otavalo – Cuicocha – Magdalena
Arriving in the morning to the city of Ibarra, we will embark on a train journey engineered in the early 20th-century that connects the northern Ecuadorian Andes and the Pacific Coast. The ride descends into the warm, dry valley of Salinas, across sugarcane plantations, magical landscapes, through tunnels and over bridges spanning canyons and patchwork fields.

Walk through the famed craft market of Otavalo, which is the most famous and picturesque in South America. For visitors, the market offers the possibility of approaching Ecuadorians at a more intimate level as you negotiate prices of a variety of woven goods, bags, hats, flutes or simply appreciate the skillful and generous people responsible for the elegance and beauty of the clothing and handicrafts.

Cuicocha comes from the Kichwa indigenous language and means “Lago del Cuy” or Guinea Pig Lake in English. It was given this name due to the guinea pig shape of the largest island in the middle of the lake. These animals play a significant part in the everyday life of indigenous people as they make for a high protein meal especially for populations living in high altitude.

The ride continues through a marvelous Andean setting we head into the indigenous community of the Karanki Magdalena. Bike or horseback ride through a wide array of colorful patchwork on the eastern foothills of the Imbabura volcano. Join a gastronomy lesson while preparing a traditional lunch. Learn from the community members about local planting techniques of potatoes, quinoa, lupin, corn, beans, wheat and other vegetables depending on the harvesting season.

Day 2: Ibarra – Train ride to Salinas – Peguche – Quito

Arriving in the morning to the city of Ibarra, we will embark on a train journey engineered in the early 20th-century that connects the northern Ecuadorian Andes and the Pacific Coast. The ride descends into the warm, dry valley of Salinas, across sugarcane plantations, magical landscapes, through tunnels and over bridges spanning canyons and patchwork fields.

Enjoy a unique lunch at the Salinas afro-Ecuadorian community restaurant, implemented by Go Galapagos – Kleintours in an effort to boost tourism in support of this fascinating area. The menu has been carefully put together through with the community to share the local savoir-faire with our high-quality standards.

Visit the village of Peguche, known for traditional weaving and the handcrafted Andean musical wind instruments. The tour also offers a range of alternatives, including villages such as Cotacachi, an Indian village which features leatherwork including bags, jackets, hats, gloves, and belts.

Drive back to Quito.