Otavalo, capital of Otavalo Canton, has a population largely made up of the Otavalo indigenous group. It is located in Imbabura Province of Ecuador. According to the 2022 census, the town had a population of 41,718 and is situated at an elevation of 2,532 metres (8,307 ft). It is surrounded by the peaks of Imbabura, Cotacachi, and Mojanda volcanoes. Mario Conejo is the current mayor of the city of Otavalo.
Otavalo with Imbabura in the background
The Saturday market in Otavalo, showing the colorful fabrics
An Otavaleña in traditional dress works with a customer in the open-air market in Otavalo
Tawa Jewelry and other handcrafts at the Otavalo Artisan Market
The Otavalos are an indigenous people native to the Andean mountains of Imbabura Province in northern Ecuador. The Otavalos also inhabit the city of Otavalo in that province. Commerce and handcrafts are among the principal economic activities of the Otavalos, who enjoy a higher standard of living than most indigenous groups in Ecuador and many mestizos of their area.
Otavalo girl in traditional clothing
Two Otavalo girls in Cayambe, Ecuador
Indigenous people of the Otavalo people, roasting guinea pigs on charcoal.