Experience the living traditions of Ecuador’s northern highlands through gastronomy, ancestral crafts, spiritual wisdom, and vibrant Indigenous culture. This two-day journey invites you beyond sightseeing – into participation, connection, and authentic cultural exchange in the Andean communities of Ilumán, Otavalo, and Atuntaqui.
Day 1 starts with a morning pick-up from Quito and a journey north to Ilumán for a hands-on Andean cooking class. Prepare and enjoy traditional dishes such as chochos salad, fritada, potato tortillas, quinoa, and helado de paila, while learning about local ingredients and ancestral techniques (vegan option available). In the afternoon, continue to Atuntaqui to explore its textile heritage with visits to a hat workshop, a tapestry studio, and a Calluwa weaving workshop preserving ancestral traditions. Overnight in Otavalo.
Day 2 begins in Ilumán with a demonstration of a traditional limpia (Andean cleansing ritual) and insights into Indigenous spirituality and Pachamama. Continue to Plaza de los Ponchos to explore one of Latin America’s most important indigenous markets. Visit an Andean instrument workshop with a live performance, then end at the Quitsato Project, marking the equatorial line before returning to Quito.
Accommodation options:
- Standard Hotel Category = Chorlaví Hacienda or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Pinsaquí Hacienda or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Hotel Otavalo or similar 5*
