Two hours north Of Quito at the heart of Ecuador’s northern highlands, the pretty colonial town of Otavalo hosts one of South America’s largest and most famous markets. Each Saturday, Otavalo erupts with a riot of colour and sound as villagers jostle with tourists to buy everything from livestock, textiles and vegetables to fabrics, fruits and handicrafts. Close by, historic colonial haciendas sit under the shadow of the Imbabura, Cotacachi and Mojanda Volcanoes and provide the perfect base to visit the market and explore the countryside. Set in magnificent gardens, these working estates offer visitors a unique insight into Ecuador’s rich heritage and some of the finest riding in the country.