Experience the Old District of Quito City on a Private Walking Tour

Are you looking for a unique and personalized way to explore the old district of Quito City? Private walking tours provide a wonderful opportunity to discover the historical and cultural sights, and get the most out of your time in this beautiful city. Here is a guide which takes a look at what’s involved in planning and enjoying a private walking tour in Quito.Why Take a Private Tour?Private tours are ideal for anyone wanting to experience a city’s charms in an intimate and personalized way. Whether you are traveling with family, friends, solo, or with a group of people, a private tour offers an ideal way to explore the city. With a private tour guide, you can be introduced to the local culture and learn more about the area’s history and attractions. Plus, with a private walking tour in Quito, you can create your own itinerary and personalize the experience. What You Can Expect on Your Private Walking TourPrivate tours can be tailored to your interests and the amount of time that you have in Quito City. For those who want to visit tourist attractions, monuments and sites, understand the local history and culture, learn about local cuisine and customs, and perhaps even meet some of the local people, they can create their own itinerary as part of their tour. Private guides tend to be local residents who have an intimate knowledge of the city and its attractions. They are able to offer insight into the places being visited as well as anecdotes about local life. In terms of sights visited on your tour, you’ll likely discover some of Quito’s finest attractions. This includes Plaza Grande – which served as the city’s trading center and meeting point for over 400 years; Sagrario Church – built in 1645 in the Baroque style; and Mariscal Sucre International Airport – which serves over 6 million passengers each year.Planning Your Private TourBefore starting your tour it is important to plan your itinerary. Think about what you would like to visit during your walking tour; what are your particular interests? Do you want to spend more time visiting certain locations? What attractions or neighborhoods would you like to visit? Consider researching relevant tour packages and guides, which can provide an exciting range of activities without having to organize everything yourself. It is also important to find the right tour guide for your experience. Local tour operators or those who are experienced in guiding tours through the city can provide knowledge and insight that adds a personal touch to your adventure; giving real value for your money. Of course, it is also important to double-check that the tour operator is registered with the Quito Municipality and is certified to offer private tours in Quito City. How Much Does a Private Tour Cost?The cost of a private walking tour varies depending on your requirements – if you have a large group or if you’re looking for extra services such as lunch or restaurant bookings for example – but in most cases you can expect to pay around $80-90 for an 8 hour tour in Quito City. A private tour can be very cost effective, especially when looking at it as a per person price; private tours avoid unnecessary expenses such as entry fees that are included with group packages. Booking Your Walking Tour Once you have found a certified tour operator and planned what you would like to include in your walking tour of Quito City, you can go ahead and book your private experience. For those looking for something special and personal during their visit to Quito, there is no better way than to experience this incredible city with the guidance of a local professional tour guide; exploring the attractions and experiencing all that the city has to offer. For an interesting, independent, and personal experience around Quito City, why not try a private walking tour? With your own personalized itinerary, get ready to explore the old district of Quito City as you have never done before! To book your private walking tour today and make sure that your dream experience becomes a reality, simply click this link to get started!

Discovering Authentic Quito: An Insider’s Guide

Quito is a vibrant and fascinating city with a rich cultural heritage, nestled in the heart of Ecuador’s Andean highlands. As visitors explore the charming streets of the Old District, they will be captivated by the stunning colonial architecture, picturesque plazas, and diverse array of local delicacies. But for those who want to experience the city like a true Quiteño, here are some insider tips to make the most of your trip.

Uncovering the Hidden Gems of Quito

While the Old District is famous for its iconic landmarks, such as the Basilica of the National Vow or the Plaza de la Independencia, there are also a few hidden gems that only locals know about. One such place is the small chapel of Santo Domingo de Guzmán, which houses a gorgeous altarpiece made of gold leaf and intricate wood carvings. The Casa de Sucre is another lesser-known attraction that preserves the legacy of South American hero Antonio José de Sucre and showcases an impressive collection of vintage colonial furniture.

Sampling Local Delicacies

Ecuadorian cuisine is a rich blend of indigenous and Spanish influences, with a strong emphasis on fresh ingredients and bold flavors. One must-try dish is the locro soup, made with potatoes, cheese, and avocado. For a sweet dessert, savor the traditional guaguas de pan (bread babies) filled with dulce de leche (caramelized milk). The street food scene is also buzzing with tasty treats like empanadas, humitas, and churrasco sandwiches. Don’t forget to wash it all down with the refreshing local drink, canelazo, made of aguardiente (sugar cane liquor), cinnamon, and fruit juice.

Immersing in Quito’s Culture

Being the first city in the world to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Quito boasts a fascinating mix of ancient and modern cultural experiences. Witness the colorful parade of Danzantes de Pujilí, a traditional folk dance performed during the Corpus Christi festival in June. Visit the wonderful art galleries and exhibitions at the Casa Museo Guayasamín, dedicated to the works of the iconic Ecuadorian artist. Catch a live performance at the Teatro Nacional Sucre, a beautifully restored neoclassical theater with exceptional acoustics.

Revealing the Fascinating History of Quito

Quito’s history is filled with fascinating stories of conquest, rebellion, and resilience. Discover the story of the indigenous leader Rumiñahui, who fought fiercely against the Spanish invasion in the 16th century and left behind a mythical treasure. Visit the stunning San Francisco Church, which survived multiple earthquakes and fires over the centuries. Take a stroll along the narrow lanes of La Ronda, a restored street that once housed the city’s artisan and bohemian population.

Going Off the Beaten Path in Quito

For those who crave adventure and exploration, Quito has some exhilarating off-the-beaten-path experiences that are worth trying. Hike up to the summit of El Panecillo, a hill that offers a panoramic view of the entire city and the surrounding volcano peaks. Take a scenic drive to the nearby Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve, a dormant volcanic crater that houses a diverse ecosystem of flora and fauna. Or, embark on a thrilling bicycle ride down the famous Cotopaxi Volcano, which can be arranged with local tour operators.

Quito is a city that has so much to offer, and this insider’s guide is just a taste of what is waiting to be explored. With its rich cultural heritage, fantastic food scene, and unique attractions, it is no wonder that more and more visitors are falling in love with this city.