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Ecuador

Northern Highlands

Otavalo Market
Cayambe Volcano, Ecuador
Hacienda Zuleta
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Otavalo Market

Why visit Ecuador’s Northern Highlands

The Northern Highlands offer a different perspective on Ecuador, where snow-capped volcanoes, traditional Andean villages and centuries-old haciendas replace the bustle of Quito. This is a region shaped by indigenous culture, dramatic mountain landscapes and a slower pace of life, making it an ideal place to spend a few days between the capital and the country’s cloud forests or Avenue of Volcanoes.

At the heart of the region lies Otavalo, home to one of South America’s most famous indigenous markets. While the colourful textiles and handicrafts are a draw, the real appeal lies in meeting local artisans, visiting family-run workshops and learning about traditions passed down through generations. Beyond the market, crater lakes, mountain trails and quiet villages reveal a side of Ecuador that many visitors overlook.

The region is also home to beautifully restored colonial haciendas, where you can relax beside open fires after a day spent horse riding across the páramo, hiking around volcanic lakes or exploring nearby communities. Food is another highlight, with farm-to-table cuisine showcasing fresh Andean produce.

For us, the Northern Highlands are about far more than shopping in Otavalo. They provide an authentic insight into Ecuador’s living culture, spectacular mountain scenery and some of the country’s most characterful places to stay.

Riding from Hacienda Zuleta

Highlights of the Northern Highlands

  • Beyond the famous Otavalo Market – Explore South America’s best-known indigenous market before visiting family-run weaving studios, leather workshops and traditional Kichwa communities where skilled crafts continue to thrive.
  • Stay in elegant historic haciendas – Spend your nights in beautifully restored colonial estates, where open fires, farm-to-table dining and warm Ecuadorian hospitality bring the Andes to life.
  • Walk around Cuicocha Crater Lake – Hike sections of the rim of this spectacular volcanic lake, surrounded by steep caldera walls and far-reaching views towards Cotacachi Volcano.
  • Experience life on a working Andean estate – Ride horses across the páramo, visit artisan cheese makers, meet local embroidery cooperatives and learn about Andean condor conservation.
  • Explore the Imbabura Geopark – Discover a landscape of volcanoes, crater lakes and fertile valleys recognised for its remarkable geology, biodiversity and living indigenous culture.
  • Immerse yourself in Andean traditions – Visit colourful villages, sacred waterfalls and local festivals where music, food and centuries-old customs remain part of everyday life.
Ancient traders

The indigenous Otavalo people have been successful international traders for centuries. Long before global travel was common, Otavaleños were exporting their handwoven textiles around the world, and today it’s not unusual to find families with businesses on several continents.

Crater lakes

The nearby Cuicocha Crater Lake was formed by a volcanic eruption around 3,000 years ago. Its name means ‘Guinea Pig Lake’ in Kichwa, after the two small islands in its centre, which were thought to resemble the Andean animal.

Where to stay

Best lodges in Ecuador’s Northern Highlands

Nothing but the best. Browse our handpicked, tried-and-tested luxury lodges.

Hacienda Piman Luxury Hacienda

Hacienda Piman, Northern Highlands

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Hacienda Zuleta Luxury Hacienda

Hacienda Zuleta, Northern Highlands

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Hacienda Cusin Luxury Hacienda

Hacienda Cusin, Northern Highlands

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Good to know

Getting to the Northern Highlands

The Northern Highlands are easily reached by private road transfer from Quito in around two to three hours. The journey climbs through the Andes, passing volcanoes, lakes and traditional villages before arriving in the Otavalo region. Most itineraries include a private vehicle with an English-speaking guide, allowing time to stop at viewpoints and local artisan workshops en route.

From Ecuador’s Cloud Forest, allow around four to five hours as the road climbs from the lush Chocó lowlands into the Andean Highlands.

When to go

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OUR FAVOURITE TIME TO VISIT

The dry weather between June and September means you can make the most of the mountain views, hikes and occasional festivals. But don’t worry if you can’t visit in this window; as long as you don’t mind the odd downpour, this is a part of the world you can explore at any time of the year.

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Get in touch with us and one of our travel experts will answer any questions you may have and help create your dream trip.

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Karen Chapman
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Caroline Maber