The Village Education Project — Volunteer in South America, Support Access to Free Education

While the volunteers work in small villages in the Ecuadorian Andes, they live together in Otavalo, a city within an hour of the project sites. Otavalo is famous primarily for its craft market, but also has many restaurants, salsa clubs, venues for traditional Andean music, and other activities. 

The following are a few of the volunteers’ favorites: 

Parque Condor: A 4-5 dollar taxi ride from the center of Otavalo, the drive to the park provides beautiful views of the surrounding
mountains. The park itself affords visitors the chance to see rare and gigantic birds from around the world—and German tourists. Show
up at 4:30 to see the daily flying show and then walk back to town at sunset.

Deli Restaurant: Despite the name, this eatery at the corner of Manuel Quiroga and Simon Bolivar Streets has some of the most delicious savory treats in Otavalo. Often open late, Deli offers chocolate fondue, crepes, banana splits and more. The gregarious patron loves to chat and will even adjust her hours if she knows you’ll be dropping by.

Mercado 24 de Mayo: Located in the center of town, this bustling farmer’s market is worth a look-see. Open seven days a week, vendors have everything from spiced nuts to ripe papayas for next to nothing.

Buena Vista Restaurant: Although a bit touristy, this second floor restaurant overlooking the Plaza Del Ponchos makes amazing brownies as well as tropical drinks. If you’re still hungry, head right next door to the Pie Shop, which offers an array of incredible homemade pies with ice cream.

El Mercado-Plaza Del Ponchos: This daily market is the Otavalo mega-attraction where merchants sell a plethora of goods such as wool blankets, alpaca sweaters, conch jewelry, and knives. Tourists from around the world descend on the marketplace on Saturdays when the market is largest…and the prices are highest. Prices tend to be more negotiable on the less crowded weekdays.

Golden Years: One of the more popular karaoke bars in Otavalo located at the corner of Quito and Modesto Jaramillo Streets. Don’t expect large crowds on weeknights, but DO expect the opportunity to sing and drink until your heart’s content.

Cascada de Peguche: A stunning waterfall just outside of Otavalo where the “Inti Raymy” celebration takes place at the end of June. After dancing and drinking for hours, party-goers head to the falls for a naked dip to channel the waterfall’s legendary cleansing powers.

La Jampa: The place to be on Friday and Saturday nights for dancing and people watching at the corner of 31 de October and Quito Streets.

Bohemias: Situated on Sucre Street, this relaxed pizzeria and bar is a definite volunteer favorite. A live Ecuadorian band plays most nights on the second floor. Hookah and humus are always available.

Mercado de Animales:  Saturdays from 6-9 AM just past the Estádio Municipal, locals trade and purchase live animals. Kittens, puppies, ducks, chicks, roosters, piglets, cows, llamas, and even guinea pigs (Cuy, a highland delicacy) are up for grabs most days.