Otavalo

Team Two arrived in the wee hours of Saturday morning, but were ready to do some sightseeing after a night's sleep . A number of Team One staff were providing care at the hospital but many of the others were able to join the trip.

The bus departed for Otavalo market and Cotocaxi leather town just after 9AM. It was a beautiful sunny morning and the view of the volcanoes, which rarely free of clouds, was fantastic. We saw Cotopaxi and Cayambe both -- amazing volcanic cones.

After stopping at a look out for a bano break and photos of a llama, we continued up to Otavalo.

Dustin (a former CAMTA patient), Damon (his twin brother) and the llama

Shucking corn by the street

The market is filled with fruits and vegetables plus weavings, scarves and clothing. All of the artisans' work is typical indigenous design. Scarves are $3.00 each or $1.50 if you buy "in bulk". Bargaining is fun and the vendors expect you to haggle for your best price. Most of the vendors are young Quechuan women in traditional dress.

Otavalo Market - chickens

Otavalo Market - shucking corn

Cotacaxi is only 10 minutes from Otavalo. There is a street of shops there selling good quality leather jackets, purses and accessories at bargain prices.