Otavalo & Cuicocha Lagoon: Relaxing 2-Day, 1-Night Review

Okay, so you’re thinking of taking a little escape to Otavalo and Cuicocha Lagoon, are you? Maybe for two days and one night? Well, I’m going to let you know just what you might find, because it really can be a nice breath of fresh air away from whatever grind you’re in right now.

Hitting Up the Market in Otavalo

First thing’s first, almost everyone goes to Otavalo for the market. It’s maybe the most prominent thing about the whole place. Picture this, it’s a Saturday morning, and the town just, kind of, explodes with colors and sounds. I mean there are textiles everywhere, ponchos, blankets, you name it. Arguably, there is just a wild selection, and it’s so very tempting to grab everything you see. Of course, keep in mind, this market is gigantic. You might want to have at least a small plan of what you want, that is if you want to come out alive. Plus, it’s a terrific chance to people-watch and, you know, soak up the vibe of the local culture. Don’t forget to haggle a bit – it’s practically part of the experience, kind of, to be honest!

Speaking of local culture, almost, that’s what really makes Otavalo, well, Otavalo. You might find people still wearing their traditional clothes; it really adds something to the whole atmosphere. That, too, its almost like you’ve walked into a living postcard. Also, if you’re feeling bold, you could always try some local street food. Empanadas? Yes, please! But be warned, and maybe, just maybe, bring some stomach medicine if you’re not used to Ecuadorian cuisine. Oh, by the way, watch out for pickpockets, so maybe keep your stuff close. You know, basic travel stuff.

Cuicocha Lagoon: Natural Beauty

Now, right after you’ve had your fill of the market, it’s time to, arguably, head over to Cuicocha Lagoon. And it’s a trip, to get there, actually. Once you arrive, get ready for some crazy peaceful scenery. Because you see, Cuicocha is actually a crater lake inside a volcano. How interesting is that? The water, typically, is a mesmerizing blue, and there are these little islands that look like they’re floating right in the center. Just maybe bring your camera, so you can capture those views because you really will want to.

Plus, if you’re wanting to get your steps in, arguably there’s a path around the entire lake. And, you know, doing it is actually super worth it, but just keep in mind, you’ll be hiking for a while. But anyway, you can just soak up nature. Keep an eye out for wildlife – there are a bunch of birds, and the plants actually are also amazing to observe. Is that the best bit? Very arguably. If you are like your truly outdoorsy, or just in need of some peace, then yeah, Cuicocha Lagoon won’t let you down, so, anyway. It’s arguably a completely refreshing break from the market hubbub.

A Place to Crash: Where to Stay

Alright, very, very important – the accommodation. To be honest, the lodging that you’ll choose can kind of impact the entire trip, to be fair. You could definitely find, or maybe reserve, a super nice hotel right in Otavalo if you wanted. As a matter of fact, I’m kind of speaking generally, though, not naming any names. However, you also get lodges outside of town, and that can let you wake up among beautiful hills, instead. It all, too it’s almost all depends on the mood you want to have during your travels, arguably.

Okay, so let me give you some ideas, okay? Something right smack dab in the center of the city is really going to keep you close to everything. The market, or just like, the restaurants. Also, maybe something a bit outside will allow for more peace. Sometimes those kinds of spots even have cool perks like, I don’t know, like, a fireplace, kind of. Just look around before you book a place and check the reviews, especially. Just in case, too it’s almost there could be a gem hidden among them, or some kind of something nasty. So, keep your eyes open, okay? That being said, that you choose your place could arguably make it or break it.

Things You’ll Need To Keep in Mind

Okay, so very quickly, some extra bits to know, yeah? First thing, Ecuador has its own currency. So, typically, if you’re from the States, then it’s probably a lot simpler for you. Also, lots of people don’t speak English, so maybe get to know at least some basic Spanish. Learn to say “hello” at least, or “thank you”. Very, very important thing? Bring sunscreen! The sun at that altitude, that is in Ecuador, really can mess you up if you aren’t very careful. A bit of altitude medicine, that is if you think you’ll get altitude sickness, might really help you. A lightweight jacket is also great, seeing how the weather tends to, typically, change quickly. Also, the cobblestone roads around Otavalo, well, you better just bring the right shoes, okay?

Maybe you really don’t need too much stuff for a 2-day, 1-night type trip. But anyway, having those essentials there just makes a difference. You may have also read somewhere that travel insurance, or something of the sort, is good to have, but I won’t bother with that! Finally, just be respectful to the local people. Ask to snap photos. Just a little goes a seriously long way. Otavalo and Cuicocha, so that’s a truly cool, unforgettable getaway, right? Arguably if you’re really up for taking it all in, anyway.

Is This Getaway Right for You?

Alright, really consider this… If you’re wanting, you know, a really busy kind of vacation jam-packed with just things, this might not always fit your style. That, too it’s almost because it does kind of cater more to someone just very up for chilling. The trip just sort of hits different needs for folks too it’s almost looking to do something with friends. Or possibly something alone. It’s nice for taking some unique, once in a lifetime photos, for example. What really works out the very best? To be fair, almost definitely, if you really do value like supporting local markets while also witnessing some, unique sights.

For a seriously short getaway, two days is arguably not too long to, you know, soak up a slice of the cultures in Ecuador. Basically this will come through most often from wandering the crazy town markets! Then also take to being surrounded, and witnessing a bit of the country, through natural destinations in the area too it’s almost, like Cuicocha Lagoon. Oh, arguably almost forgot! Are you seriously planning on hiking? Maybe something of a higher endurance sport with camping is where it’s at. If instead you are very up for exploring, while still, arguably, staying fairly comfy, then that, truly, is what will probably match what you need most. Ultimately though the time will always stay a bit too short. Don’t let that be you’re breaking point.