Things to do

The remarkable thing about Otavalo is the vibrant and innovative culture of the Otavaleno Indians.   I strongly recommend the experience of touring the Indian villages that surround Otavalo and meeting Indian families and seeing how they make the fine sweaters, hats, weavings and other craft articles sold in the market.   You need a tourist guide for this, and the best one in Otavalo is Rodrigo Mora of Zulaytur.  He's an anthropologist, with really good connections in the Indian communities.  He's also just a very fun guy to spend an afternoon with.  A bundle of energy with a very electric personality and strong intellect.   His office is on the second floor at Colon and Sucre streets.   Competitors also call themselves "Zulay this" and "Zulay that" to try to ride on his coat tails, because so many guidebooks recommend Zulaytur.  Don't be fooled.   He's also an excellent resouce for doing horseback riding, or a volcano hike, or a trip to the lakes nearby.  Here's his phone:  593 (9) 6938 613.   His website is .http://www.geocities.com/zulaytur/