Welcome to Quito, one of the most beautiful cities in the world! As a bustling metropolis perched high in the Andes, it can be challenging to see all the sights and sounds in Ecuador’s capital city. That’s why we’re excited to share with you the 10 best motorized city tours that will help you explore Quito in style and comfort. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, you’ll discover new wonders and hidden gems in this vibrant city. Buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
The 10 Best Motorized City Tours in Quito
- From Quito: Guided Day Trips to the Mindo Cloud Forest
- Quito: Urban Legends of Quito by Night
- Quito: Old Town and Middle of the World Tour.
- Shared Tour: City Tour+Mitad del Mundo+Teleferico of Quito
- Quito: Private Mindo Cloud Forest Tour with Cable Car Ride
- Quito: Private City Tour & Intiñam Museum Visit w/ Transfer
- From Quito: Antisana and Condor Watching Guided Day Trips
- From Quito: Cable Car, Intiñan Museum, & Colonial Town Tour
- From Quito: Cotopaxi National Park Full-Day Tour
- Quito: Urban Bike Tour
The 10 Best Motorized City Tours in Quito
1. From Quito: Guided Day Trips to the Mindo Cloud Forest
Explore the stunning Mindo Cloud Forest on this guided day trip from Quito. Marvel at the five breathtaking waterfalls and take a dip in one of them. Keep your eyes peeled for sightings of colorful toucans and other tropical wildlife. Ride on a cable car that goes over the canopy of the subtropical rainforest and spend free time visiting the orchid and butterfly farm or the chocolate factory. Enjoy the convenience of being picked up and dropped off directly at your accommodation. This tour is not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments. Bring your swimwear, towel, camera, and hiking shoes for a fun-filled day. The tour takes place rain or shine.
2. Quito: Urban Legends of Quito by Night
Start your Quito night tour in the northern part of the city and travel through the most important commercial areas where most of the hotels are located. Explore aboard a replica of the trams used in the city in the last century.
Head to the historic center to gaze at the illuminated churches and main tourist attractions. Discover some of the city’s unique landscapes (tickets not included). Then continue to Mirador del Panecillo (entrance included) for a beautiful view of colonial and modern day Quito.
During the tour, you will learn about the historic urban legends that are a part of the traditional and cultural heritage of the people of Quito. Your guide will help you get to know the people who live in this city better and begin to recognize their way of speaking and thinking.
This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from selected hotels in Quito, transportation, some admissions, and gratuities. The tour meets at Galeria Ecuador (La Mariscal) on Wednesdays to Saturdays at 7:20 PM. Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes!
3. Quito: Old Town and Middle of the World Tour.
The “Quito: Old Town and Middle of the World Tour” is a perfect way to explore the beautiful city of Quito. You will start the tour by visiting Plaza Grande and the old town with La Compañia de Jesús, San Francisco, and La Basilica Churches. You will then head to Panecillo Hill, which offers stunning views of Quito. After that, you will take a cable car Teleférico to reach 4200 meters above sea level, where you can view the entire city of Quito.
The tour will then take you to the equator line monument and Intiñan museum for an unforgettable experience. The itinerary is flexible, and you can choose to enjoy lunch either in the middle of the world or in the old town.
The tour includes transportation, a driver/guide, entrance fees, and food and drink. However, it is essential to note that the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and pets are not allowed.
This is an excellent tour for both locals and tourists who want to explore Quito’s history and culture. Book now for a memorable experience.
4. Shared Tour: City Tour+Mitad del Mundo+Teleferico of Quito
This full-day shared city tour of Quito includes a visit to The Panecillo Hill for a panoramic view of the city, stops at various colonial churches including the Basilica Church and San Francisco’s Church, and a cable car journey for breathtaking views of Quito and its surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, experience straddling the two hemispheres at the equatorial line and participating in experiments at the Intiñan Museum. This tour includes lunch, entrance fees to the Teleferico of Quito, Inti Ñan Museum, and Pululahua Crater, a chocolate tasting, and hotel pick up/drop off in Quito. Small groups of 2-8 persons may be combined for the shared tour. Private tours are also available for groups of 3 or more upon request.
5. Quito: Private Mindo Cloud Forest Tour with Cable Car Ride
The private Mindo Cloud Forest Tour with Cable Car Ride is a must-do for nature lovers visiting Quito. Your private bilingual guide will pick you up from your hotel in Quito and take you on a 2-hour ride to the Bosque Protector Mindo Nambillo. Enjoy the picturesque scenery of the cloud forest while riding the cable car.
In the butterfly garden, you’ll get to observe over 1200 colorful butterflies and learn about the four stages in their lives. Next, take a walk through the cloud forest to the Nambillo Waterfall, one of Mindo’s most popular natural attractions, where you can take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the pool area if you like. At the end of your tour, you’ll be dropped off back at your hotel in Quito.
Please note that pickup and drop-off are available from hotels located in La Carolina, La Mariscal, and the Historic Centre of Quito. This tour is not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments. Remember to bring your passport or ID card, sunglasses, camera, and sunscreen. Food and drinks, as well as other activities, are not included in the tour.
6. Quito: Private City Tour & Intiñam Museum Visit w/ Transfer
Explore the best of Quito with a private city tour and a visit to the Intiñan Museum. Your English-speaking guide will pick you up from your hotel at 8:30 a.m. and take you to Pululahua volcano, one of the two inhabited craters in the world with amazing viewpoints. Then, head to the Intiñan Museum, located at 0 degrees 0 minutes and 0 seconds, where you can stand on both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres at the same time! Afterward, take a walk through the charming streets of the colonial town of Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at historic landmarks such as Independence Square, the Cathedral, and the Church of the Society of Jesus of Quito. You’ll also enjoy a stunning view of the city from “El Panecillo” hill before returning to your hotel around 3:30 p.m. Note that this tour includes private transportation, drinks, and meals, as well as entrance fees. Remember to bring a jacket and wear comfortable clothes as this tour takes place rain or shine.
7. From Quito: Antisana and Condor Watching Guided Day Trips
Experience the beauty of Antisana, the fourth highest volcano in Ecuador, on this full-day tour from Quito. You’ll meet your naturalist certified English-speaking guide at your hotel at 7:00 a.m. before embarking on a drive through the eastern mountain range to the Ecological Reserve. At an altitude of 3,810 meters, you’ll have a chance to spot a variety of fauna such as eagles, carunculated caracaras, white-tail deer, foxes, and the Andean Condor, the world’s largest flying bird.
Take a hike through the Andean slopes to view the Mica Lake at 4,050 meters, surrounded by spectacular water birds such as Andean lapwings, Andean gulls, Andean coots, Andean ducks, and black-faced ibis which only exist in the Antisana Volcano in Ecuador.
Then, continue downhill to the Isco canyon where the cliffs provide a nesting ground for condors. This is the best place in Ecuador to observe Andean Condors in the wild. Enjoy a traditional and delicious lunch at a local restaurant before returning to your hotel in Quito around 4:00 p.m.
Please wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing, and bring a hat and rain gear. Pets, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed. This tour will take place rain or shine.
8. From Quito: Cable Car, Intiñan Museum, & Colonial Town Tour
Experience an adventure in Quito like no other with the From Quito: Cable Car, Intiñan Museum, & Colonial Town Tour. Meet your friendly and professional guide at the Plaza Foch Hotel Nu House at 9:00 am to start your journey. Take a breathtaking ride on a cable car at the foothills of the Pichincha Volcano, travelling 15 minutes per way from a height of 9990 ft to 12500 ft. Enjoy an unforgettable view of the eastern valleys, old town, and the northern and southern hemispheres of Quito. Explore the capital city and visit top attractions and important sights, with your guide providing interesting historical insights along the way. Check out the famous Intiñan Museum, filled with exciting exhibits from various places along the equator. The tour includes shared private transportation, certified English-speaking guide, drinks, meals, and entrance fees. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and it is recommended that you bring comfortable shoes, sun hat, sunscreen, and a jacket. The tour will take place rain or shine, so prepare accordingly!
9. From Quito: Cotopaxi National Park Full-Day Tour
Explore the stunning scenery of Cotopaxi National Park on this full-day tour from Quito. After pick-up from your hotel, travel in a comfortable private vehicle towards the park, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Andes Mountains and the Cotopaxi Volcano. Visit the Interpretation Center to learn about Ecuador’s second-highest mountain, and then embark on a 3-hour hike through the Limpiopungo valley, climbing from an altitude of about 3890 meters to 4500 meters. Take in the breathtaking views on clear days and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant if selected. National park fees, bottled water, a professional guide, and coca tea are included in the tour. Note that this tour is not suitable for people with heart problems. Remember to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, rain gear, and hiking shoes. Book now for an unforgettable outdoor adventure in Ecuador.
10. Quito: Urban Bike Tour
Explore Quito in a unique way with the Urban Bike Tour. This 4-hour tour takes you through La Floresta, Carolina Mariscal, and Iñaquito, where you can explore the less touristy parts of the city and experience the local culture that makes Quito special. Starting from the Ochoymedio Arthouse Cinema, you’ll admire the street art around La Floresta and cycle through one of the biggest parks in Quito and South America, Carolina Park. You’ll visit the Botanic Gardens and ride along Amazonas Avenue, one of the main arteries of modern Quito before stopping at the iconic and colourful Iñaquito Market. The tour will head back via Carolina Park and finish at a local café where you can enjoy a complimentary drink and snack. The tour includes a 24-speed urban bike, helmet, bicycle chain lock and key, safety vest, and a licensed bilingual guide (English/Spanish). Hotel pickup and drop-off are also included. Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, and water in a reusable bottle. Private and custom tours are also available.
Most Frequently Asked Questions About Quito Answered
Quito, the beautiful capital city of Ecuador, is a popular tourist destination. Its rich culture, ancient history, and stunning natural surroundings attract visitors from all over the world. However, planning a trip to Quito can be a little overwhelming, especially if you’re a first-time traveler. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Quito, answered.
Where is Quito?
Quito is situated in the north-central part of Ecuador, in the Andean mountains. It is located at an altitude of 2,850 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest capital cities in the world.
What language do they speak in Quito?
The official language of Ecuador is Spanish, and that’s what the majority of people speak in Quito. However, because of tourism, many Quito natives and business owners also speak English. Knowing basic Spanish can be helpful but not necessary to explore the city.
What is the currency in Quito?
The official currency of Ecuador is the US dollar since 2000. Visitors do not need to exchange money in Quito if they’re coming from the United States or if American dollars can be obtained easily from your local country.
What is the weather like in Quito?
Quaint stays mild during most of the year, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 20 Celsius. Due to its high altitude, the sun here is strong, but the temperatures remain cool. The city has a humid subtropical climate and experiences a rainy season from October to May.
What are the best things to see and do in Quito?
Quito has something for everyone. It is a city with a rich history and culture, so visitors can explore the historic center of Quito, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Some of the most popular attractions in Quito include La Basilica del Voto Nacional, Plaza Grande, El Panecillo, and the Church and Monastery of San Francisco. You can also find outdoor adventures to start at the base of the Andes Mountains.
What are the safety considerations when traveling to Quito?
Quito is generally safe, but the usual precautions should be taken when exploring a foreign city. Visitors should avoid wandering around after dark, stay in well-lit areas at night and avoid wearing fancy jewelry. It’s also important not to leave your belongings unattended, be careful with your surroundings to avoid pickpockets or theft crime.
Do I need a visa to visit Quito?
Visitors from most countries can stay in Ecuador for up to 90 days without a visa. However, it’s essential to check your country visa requirements before visiting Quito. Immigration officers at Ecuador airports and land borders may request a return or onward airline ticket, evidence of lodging or hotel booking, and confirmation of sufficient funds to cover the stay.
What are the transportation options in Quito?
Getting around Quito is easy, with many public transportation options. The public bus system is cheap and efficient, and taxis are relatively inexpensive. Also, Quito has a modern transit bus system called the Ecovia, which provides comfortable transport while providing many connections between the city’s most visited areas.
What are the accommodations like in Quito?
Quito offers a range of accommodations for visitors, from luxury hotels to inexpensive hostels. For a unique experience, many visitors choose to stay in one of the historic hostels located in the city’s historic old town. Generally, the closer you stay to the historic center of Quito, the higher the accommodation costs will be.
Conclusion
Traveling to Quito is undoubtedly an exhilarating experience, full of cultural immersion and stunning natural scenery. Hopefully, this Q&A has helped to answer some of your most frequently asked questions and provide guidance for planning your next trip. Remember to have an open mind and an adventurous spirit and make most out of your visit.
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