Otavalo Warnings and Dangers

Over all Otavalo doesnt have alot of violent crime. It is also much safer here than it is in Quito or Guayaquil. We walked around at night with absolutely no problem. What you do have to watch out for is when there are large crowds because when you least expect it you might be missing something. Dont take your money out in public and use common sense.
I have never experienced anything like that, i think because I always try to be aware of my surroundings and where I have my cash.
My dad was pick pocketed on New Years Eve. There was alot of people around and large crowds. My dad was with a big group of people/family and they were enjoying the festivities. He said that there was an elderly woman and a bunch of kids around him and on two occasions he felt the old ladys hand in his pockets. He scolded her and went on his way. Then she did it again. Once again he scolded her and tried to get away from her. He looked in his pocket and the money was still there next to his cigarretes. When he was ready to buy something he realized his money was gone. He didnt know if it was the old lady or the kids but $80 were gone. So just be careful.