Young woman in the market of Otavalo, Ecuador

Young woman in the market of Otavalo, Ecuador

A young woman walks through an open-air market. She is wearing an embroidered white blouse and dark skirt. She also carries a small white cloth bag across her shoulders. In the background there are several market stalls.

Otavalo is in the highlands of Ecuador, between the rainforest and the coast. Many of the inhabitants of the area continue to practice traditional ways of life, including retaining their Quechua language, wearing traditional garments, and practicing age-old occupations. Otavalo in particular is known for its highly-skilled weavers. In a tradition that pre-dates the arrival of the Incas, Otavalo weavers are famous for their wool ponchos, blankets, and wall coverings. These products and more can be found in Otavalo's large market.