Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Otavalo

Otavalo, known for its vibrant indigenous culture and famous crafts market, is a smaller city that offers a more limited selection of international or bilingual schools compared to larger urban centers. However, expats and digital nomads with children can still find quality educational options within a reasonable distance. Two of the most popular schools that cater to the international community are the Colegio Internacional SEK Los Valles and the British School Quito, both located in or near the capital city of Quito, which is within a 40-minute drive from Otavalo.

Colegio Internacional SEK Los Valles

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Cumbayá, Quito
Website: www.seklosvalles.ec

Colegio Internacional SEK Los Valles is part of the SEK International Institution, which has schools across several countries. The school offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program and is known for its rigorous academic standards. With state-of-the-art facilities, including science labs, sports fields, and art studios, SEK Los Valles provides a comprehensive education that emphasizes inquiry-based learning. Extracurricular activities are abundant, ranging from robotics to equestrian sports, catering to a diverse set of interests.

British School Quito

Grades: Early Years through Year 13
Location(s): Monteserrín, Quito
Website: www.britishschoolquito.edu.ec

The British School Quito delivers a curriculum based on the English National Curriculum and offers the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) as well as the IB Diploma Programme. The school boasts a multicultural environment with students from various nationalities. Facilities include modern classrooms, science and IT labs, and sports areas. The school also provides a wide range of extracurricular activities, including music, drama, and various sports clubs.

Academia Cotopaxi American International School

Grades: Pre-K through Grade 12
Location(s): Monteserrín, Quito
Website: www.cotopaxi.k12.ec

Academia Cotopaxi American International School is an American-accredited institution that offers an American-style education with Advanced Placement (AP) courses for high school students. The school is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. Academia Cotopaxi provides excellent facilities, including a library, auditorium, and sports complex. The school's extracurricular program is extensive, featuring clubs and activities such as Model United Nations, community service, and various competitive sports.

Alliance Academy International

Grades: Pre-K through Grade 12
Location(s): Cumbayá, Quito
Website: www.alliance.k12.ec

Alliance Academy International offers a Christian-based education with a curriculum that integrates American and Ecuadorian standards. The school is accredited by both the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and the Ecuadorian Ministry of Education. With a focus on holistic development, the school provides a variety of extracurricular activities, including spiritual development programs, arts, and athletics. The campus features modern classrooms, science labs, and sports facilities.

Please note that while these schools are within a 40-minute drive from Otavalo, traffic conditions can vary, and it's advisable to check the current travel times. Additionally, as Otavalo is a smaller city, the options for international or bilingual schools are more concentrated in the nearby capital of Quito.