El Ejido Artisanal Market
Vibrant market showcasing Ecuadorian artistry with textiles, jewelry, and traditional crafts. A must-visit for authentic souvenirs.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe
El Ejido Artisanal Market
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vibrant market showcasing Ecuadorian artistry with textiles, jewelry, and traditional crafts. A must-visit for authentic souvenirs.
"A wonderful place for handmade goods like leather bags, ponchos, jewelry, and llama figurines!"
Carry Cash! 💰
ATMs are available, but vendors prefer cash. Be ready to haggle!
Haggle Politely! 😊
Negotiate prices respectfully; it's part of the experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Handcrafted Textiles
Throughout the market
Discover vibrant ponchos, scarves, and intricately woven bags showcasing Ecuadorian artistry.

Artisanal Jewelry
Jewelry stalls
Find unique silver pieces, beaded creations, and handcrafted accessories that make perfect souvenirs.
Llama Figurines & Souvenirs
Souvenir stalls
Take home charming llama figurines, leather goods, and other traditional crafts that capture the spirit of Ecuador.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cash is King (Mostly)
Embrace the Haggling Culture
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Carry Cash! 💰
ATMs are available, but vendors prefer cash. Be ready to haggle!
Haggle Politely! 😊
Negotiate prices respectfully; it's part of the experience.
Explore All Stalls 🚶♀️
Don't rush; unique treasures await around every corner.
Watch Your Belongings 👀
Tourist police patrol; stay aware of your surroundings.
Tips
from all over the internet
Carry Cash! 💰
ATMs are available, but vendors prefer cash. Be ready to haggle!
Haggle Politely! 😊
Negotiate prices respectfully; it's part of the experience.
Explore All Stalls 🚶♀️
Don't rush; unique treasures await around every corner.
Watch Your Belongings 👀
Tourist police patrol; stay aware of your surroundings.
Great for Gifts! 🎁
Find unique souvenirs and gifts for everyone.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the El Ejido Artisanal Market for its wide selection of authentic Ecuadorian handicrafts, from textiles to jewelry. The friendly vendors and the opportunity to haggle for great prices are frequently highlighted as positive aspects. While cash is preferred, on-site ATMs make transactions convenient. Some visitors note the need to be aware of personal belongings in crowded areas.
"Loved this market! Wonderful hand made goods like leather bags, ponchos, jewelry, llama figurines, and so much more. Cash only but there is an ATM. Definitely recommend for souvenirs or gifts"
Madison Phillips
"I bought a poncho from here. There was a wide selection of ponchos and other local gifts and souvenirs. The tourist police patrolled the area and helpfully told me to be careful with my phone. There is a cash machine onsite if you need to lift cash for buying gifts"
Darren Hill
"It’s really nice. They have an ATM so if you forget your cash, you can always get it there. While you’re passing all of the stuff, they are going to say hello to you and ask you if you want to take a look at their merchandise, but they’re not pushy. If you just smile and thank them, they will leave you alone. You can negotiate prices and they will be able to lower the price if you find it too expensive or if you want to for the price of one or something like that. They have all kinds of handmade artisanal crafts. And they also have souvenirs. They also have lots and lots and lots of silver jewelry. So if you’re looking for a souvenir or your brand new sparkling ring, this is definitely the place to go."
Adriana Harts
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The market is located in Quito, Ecuador. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available and a convenient way to reach the market. Public buses also serve the area, offering a more budget-friendly option.
Yes, it's a well-known landmark. Look for the covered market area, often bustling with activity. If you're unsure, ask your taxi driver for 'El Mercado Artesanal de El Ejido'.
The market generally operates daily, but hours can vary. It's best to visit during daylight hours, typically from morning until late afternoon or early evening.
Parking can be challenging in this busy area. It's often easier to use public transport or a taxi. If you drive, look for paid parking lots nearby.
If you are staying in the central areas of Quito, it might be a pleasant walk, but it depends on your exact location. Check a map for distances and consider the altitude.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the El Ejido Artisanal Market is typically free. You only pay for the items you choose to purchase from the vendors.
There are no admission fees to browse the market. It's an open-air (partially covered) space where you can explore the various stalls.
To experience a more relaxed atmosphere and potentially better negotiation opportunities, aim for weekday mornings. Weekends can be busier with both locals and tourists.
The market has some covered areas and pathways, but it can be uneven in places. It's advisable to proceed with caution.
While possible, navigating with a stroller or wheelchair might be challenging due to crowds and uneven surfaces. Consider a baby carrier for younger children.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Crafts
You'll find a wide array of Ecuadorian handicrafts, including textiles like ponchos and scarves, intricate jewelry, leather goods, ceramics, wood carvings, and traditional souvenirs.
Absolutely! Haggling is a common practice. Vendors expect it, so don't hesitate to politely negotiate for a better price.
While some vendors might accept cards, it's best to have cash. ATMs are available on-site for your convenience.
The market is known for its authentic artisanal products, often made by local craftspeople. Look for unique details that signify handmade quality.
Popular souvenirs include colorful textiles, silver jewelry, leather bags, alpaca wool items, and small decorative crafts like llama figurines.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, taking photos is generally allowed. However, it's always polite to ask vendors before taking close-up shots of their merchandise or them.
The vibrant displays of textiles, colorful jewelry, and the bustling market atmosphere offer great photo opportunities. Capture the details of the crafts and the interactions.
There are no specific restrictions, but be mindful of other shoppers and vendors. Avoid blocking pathways or being intrusive.
It's courteous to ask permission before photographing vendors, especially if you plan to use the images commercially. Many are happy to pose if asked nicely.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wider market scenes and detailed shots. A prime lens can also be useful for low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the market can get crowded, so holding hands is advisable. Strollers might be a bit cumbersome due to uneven paths and crowds, so a baby carrier could be more practical for younger children. The friendly nature of the vendors means they are often happy to interact with children, adding to the positive experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize your budget, carry cash and be prepared to haggle. Consider buying multiple items from the same vendor for potential bundle discounts. Visiting on a weekday morning might also lead to slightly better prices as vendors may be more eager to make sales.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Ecuadorian Crafts
Look out for unique items like beaded bags, ceramics, and wood carvings. The market is a fantastic place to witness the diversity of Ecuadorian folk art and to purchase authentic souvenirs that support local communities. Remember that many of these items are handmade, so slight variations are part of their charm.
When exploring, take your time to appreciate the craftsmanship. Don't be afraid to ask vendors about the materials and techniques they use. This interaction can enrich your understanding and appreciation of the art you're purchasing.
Navigating the Market Experience
Haggling is a key part of the shopping culture here. Vendors are friendly and approachable, and they expect you to negotiate prices. Start with a smile and a polite offer, and be prepared to engage in a friendly back-and-forth. If a price isn't working for you, it's okay to thank them and move on.
Cash is essential. While some vendors might accept cards, many operate on a cash-only basis. There are ATMs conveniently located within the market, but it's always a good idea to have some local currency on hand to avoid any hassle. This ensures you can snag those perfect souvenirs without interruption.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit