How to Plan Your Quito Full-Day Ciudad Mitad del Mundo Tour

Are you looking for a unique and exciting experience that combines history, culture, and breathtaking views? Look no further than the Quito Full-Day Ciudad Mitad del Mundo Tour! This tour takes you to the “Middle of the World” complex on the equator, where you can feel the power of being in both hemispheres at the same time. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit the Pululahua Crater viewpoint, the Beer Museum, and the Agave Museum.

To help you plan your tour, here’s a step-by-step guide to everything you need to know before booking.

Step 1: Choose Your Tour Type

The first step in planning your Quito Full-Day Ciudad Mitad del Mundo Tour is to decide what type of tour you prefer. You can choose between a shared group or private tour. A shared group tour is a great option if you’re traveling solo or with a small group and want to meet other travelers. A private tour is perfect for those who want a more personalized experience and the flexibility to customize their itinerary.

Step 2: Book Your Tour

Once you’ve decided on your tour type, it’s time to book your tour. You can book your Quito Full-Day Ciudad Mitad del Mundo Tour online at this link. Secure your spot by paying in advance, and then just show up at the designated meeting place on the day of your tour.

Step 3: Prepare for Your Tour

Before embarking on your Quito Full-Day Ciudad Mitad del Mundo Tour, there are a few things to keep in mind. Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Bring a camera to capture the stunning views, and consider bringing a small backpack to carry essentials like water, sunscreen, and snacks.

Step 4: Enjoy Your Tour

Now it’s time to embark on your adventure! The tour begins when you board the Quito Tour Bus on Avenida Naciones Unidas in the heart of Quito in the early afternoon. Your bilingual guide (English and Spanish) will provide expert commentary as you journey to the Geobotanical Reserve of the Pululahua Crater at the Ciudad Mitad del Mundo complex.

Once you arrive at the complex, you’ll get a full access pass to explore the “Middle of the World,” where you can stand in both hemispheres at the same time. Next, you’ll visit the new Beer Museum, where you can learn about the history of beer-making in Ecuador and see a miniature model that celebrates the architectural beauty of the Historic Center of Quito. Finally, you’ll visit the Agave Museum, where you’ll have a tasting of this ancestral drink.

At the end of the tour, you’ll return to the start point in the evening, feeling like you’ve seen and experienced Quito in a way that’s unique and unforgettable.

Additional Tour Information

In addition to the highlights already described, the Quito Full-Day Ciudad Mitad del Mundo Tour includes the following:

– Tourist transportation
– Mitad del Mundo City entrance

Meals and gratuities are not included in the tour price, so be sure to bring cash or a credit card if you plan to enjoy a meal or tip your guide.

Conclusion

The Quito Full-Day Ciudad Mitad del Mundo Tour is an unforgettable experience that combines history, culture, and stunning views. By following these steps to plan your tour, you’ll get the most out of your adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t wait – book your tour today and discover the beauty of Quito in a whole new way!

An Insider’s Guide to Quito: Discovering the Hidden Gems

Quito, the capital city of Ecuador, is a treasure trove of unique sights and experiences. While the well-known attractions like the historic center, the teleferico, and the Mitad del Mundo monument deserve a visit, there is so much more to explore beyond the typical tourist spots. Here’s an insider’s guide to Quito that will take you off the beaten path and give you a glimpse into the city’s hidden gems.

Local Attractions: Uncovering the Secret Spots

Intiñan Solar Museum: Don’t let the touristy name fool you; this museum is a true hidden gem. Located near the Mitad del Mundo monument, the museum offers a fascinating insight into Ecuadorean culture and traditions. Visitors can learn about the indigenous communities, see shrunken heads up close, and participate in experiments demonstrating the equatorial line’s gravitational pull.

Parque La Carolina: A favorite among locals, this park is an excellent escape from the city’s bustling streets. The park boasts impressive outdoor sculptures and enough green space for a picnic or a game of ultimate frisbee. Visitors can rent bikes, paddle boats, or even take a free salsa class.

Plaza del Teatro: This charming square in the historical center of the city used to be the cultural hub of Quito. Today, it is one of the few pedestrian-friendly areas where you can take your time and enjoy the street artists and vendors lining the square.

Dining Spots: Savor the Flavor of the City

While Ecuadorian cuisine may not be as well-known as some of its South American neighbors, it has a flavor all of its own. From street food to fine dining, you’ll find plenty of delicious options.

Lo Nuestro (La Floresta): A cozy family restaurant in the trendy La Floresta neighborhood, Lo Nuestro serves delicious traditional Ecuadorean food. Try the ceviche with popcorn or the fanesca, a hearty soup made with 12 grains and served only during Holy Week.

Zazu: Located in the lively Mariscal neighborhood, Zazu is the perfect spot for a fine dining experience. Chef and owner Claudio Alejandro creates stunning dishes that blend traditional Ecuadorean ingredients with contemporary techniques. The tasting menu is a must-try.

El Panecillo: Besides being home to the iconic Virgen de Quito statue, El Panecillo is also a great spot for street food. Grab a cup of hot chocolate and a cheese empanada from one of the vendors while enjoying the sweeping views of the city below.

Cultural Experiences: A Glimpse into Ecuadorian Traditions

Carnaval: If you happen to be in Quito during February, make sure to celebrate Carnaval like a local. This festive time features water fights, parades, and lots of dancing and food.

Museo de la Ciudad: Quito’s City Museum offers an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits documenting the city’s history from pre-Columbian times to the present. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events.

Ballet Nacional de Ecuador: Founded in 1959, the Ballet Nacional de Ecuador is the oldest national ballet company in South America. Check their schedule for performances during your visit and witness the grace and beauty of traditional Ecuadorean dances.

Local History: Captivating Stories from the Past

The Legend of the Lovers’ Leap: According to the legend, during the colonial period, a young noblewoman named Cantuña fell in love with a Spanish soldier. When her father forbade their union, the lovers jumped from the walls of the convent where they had secretly been meeting. Today, the spot is a lookout point with fantastic views of the city.

The Miracle of the Sun: In 1906, the French painter Leon Jerome Ferrar was commissioned to paint frescoes in the Cathedral of Quito. One day, as he was inspecting his work, the sun shone through a stained glass window, illuminating the image of the Virgin of Quito. The event became known as the Miracle of the Sun and the image is now a popular pilgrimage site.

La Compañía: The Church of the Society of Jesus, also known as La Compañía, is one of the most ornate churches in the world, with its gold leaf-covered interior and intricate Baroque architecture. The story goes that the indigenous workers who built the church were promised that they could keep whatever gold they found in the process. When the Spanish authorities realized how much gold was being produced, they ordered the church’s construction to stop. However, the workers managed to secretly build the altar and cover the walls with gold leaf before the church’s completion.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unique Experiences to Remember

Mitad del Mundo by bike: Skip the crowds and take a bike ride to the actual equator line. Rent a bike in the nearby village of San Antonio, and bike through the countryside, stopping at small restaurants and shops before reaching the monument.

Otavalo market: If you have an extra morning to spare, take a bus or do a tour to the Otavalo market, one of the largest indigenous markets in South America. Here, you can find everything from textiles to jewelry to alpaca wool sweaters.

Ecuadorian chocolate tasting: Did you know that Ecuador is one of the largest exporters of cacao? Take a chocolate tasting tour and explore the different varieties and flavors of Ecuadorian chocolate.

In conclusion, Quito has an abundance of unique and exciting experiences to offer. From hidden gems to cultural traditions to off-the-beaten-path suggestions, this insider’s guide will help you discover the best the city has to offer. So pack your bags and get ready to fall in love with Quito.