Tour Communities and Cuicocha lake
Tour Communities and Cuicocha lake FULL DAY
Are you ready for an authentic and unforgettable experience? With our Tour Communities and Cuicocha lake, you’ll discover the rich culture of the Kichwa communities around Otavalo and the stunning beauty of the Cuicocha crater lake—all in one immersive day filled with connection, history, and nature.
The day begins at 9:00 a.m. with private transportation from Otavalo. First, we visit a family in San Rafael who craft unique, sustainable items using totora reeds (Schoenoplectus californicus), a native aquatic plant. Then, explore an Andean musical instrument workshop where you’ll feel the vibrant soul of traditional melodies.
As part of the Tour Communities and Cuicocha lake, we take a gentle one-hour walk to the sacred Peguche Waterfall, a spiritual place for the Kichwa people and perfect for recharging with the power of water.
Next, we visit several indigenous communities where local families warmly welcome you. Here, you’ll witness ancestral weaving techniques using sheep and alpaca wool, and share in their daily life, preserving old traditions.
Our journey continues to Cotacachi, famous for its leather craftsmanship. Enjoy lunch either at a cozy local restaurant or in a welcoming family home. Afterward, enjoy free time to stroll the charming streets, browse leather shops, or relax with a cup of coffee in a quaint café.
The highlight of the Tour Communities and Cuicocha lake comes next: choose between visiting the breathtaking Cuicocha lake, a deep volcanic crater surrounded by lush Andean vegetation, where a short guided walk reveals local legends, flora, and fauna; or exploring the Dream Garden (Jardín de los Ensueños), where you’ll learn about medicinal plants and their vital role in Andean traditional medicine.
By late afternoon, we return to Otavalo or your accommodation, hearts full of memories and new knowledge. 📌 The tour lasts about 7 hours but can be adjusted to your pace and interests.
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Destination
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Departure
Otavalo or your hotel -
Departure Time
Approximately 09.00AM -
Return Time
Approximately 16.00PM -
Dress Code
Casual, comfortable and light, Umbrella, Small excursion backpack, Sunscreen, mosquito repellent, Sun Cap, black sunglasses, Water & Snack (chocolates, cookies, sweets), Personal antibacterial gel -
Included
Guide Esp - EngLunchTicketsTransport -
Not Included
Accommodation (hotel)Airport TransferBike and helmetBracelet and activitiesBracelets with your nameBreakfastCoffee ProcessCooking ClassDinnerExtra drinksFamily accommodationGallery TicketGroup Purification RitualHorsesHotSpring NangulviPachamankaPartera DemonstrationPersonal GuideTaxes (VAT)Tents and sleeping matsTipsTraditional lunchTrapiche ProcessVisit to Alpaca BreedingWork materialsYuca and Coffee Tasting
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Tour Plan
09:00 AM – Pick Up from Your Hotel in Otavalo
09:30 AM – Family Totora Workshop
📌 Optional: You can craft a small totora llama as a souvenir for an additional $7 USD.
10:30 AM – Visit and Hike at Peguche Waterfall
11:20 AM – Traditional Weaving and Wool Dyeing Workshop
12:20 PM – Wind Instrument Workshop
1:10 PM – Lunch
2:15 PM – Option 1: Visit to Cuicocha Crater Lake
2:15 PM – Option 2: Visit to the Garden of Dreams
4:00 PM – Return to Otavalo and End of Services
Gallery
Let yourself be carried away by the magic QuichuaTours! We invite you to discover the essence of the tour through images.
Reviews Scores and Score Breakdown
“Did you live an unforgettable adventure with us? Tell us about it! Your story could spark someone else’s next trip.”
Richar Trump
Un hermoso tour en las comunidades de Otavalo y sobre en el Lago Cuicocha, Luis nuestro guía nos explico todo sobre la cultura y las plantas medicinales y alimenticias que encontramos en el camino. Recomiendo viajar con QuichuaTours
mayo 11, 2025 at 11:06 am