Quito, the capital city of Ecuador, is a gem of a destination that boasts of rich cultural heritage and stunning natural scenery. Its central location in the Andes mountains makes it a perfect base to explore the region’s natural wonders and picturesque towns. If you are short on time but still want to experience Quito and its surroundings, taking a day trip is an ideal way to do it. In this post, we’ll share with you the two best day trips in Quito that will take you to some of the most breathtaking sights in Ecuador. From the towering Cotopaxi Volcano to the charming town of Otavalo, get ready to be immersed in the beauty and culture of Ecuador.

The 2 Best Day Trips in Quito

1. Full Day Tour to Mindo with Friends! (English)
2. 8-Day Galápagos Hotel-Based Tour & Quito´s World Heritage City Highlights

The 2 Best Day Trips in Quito

1. Full Day Tour to Mindo with Friends! (English)

Join this full-day tour to Mindo and explore the beauty of Ecuador’s cloud forest with friends! The tour includes private transportation and a bilingual guide for a hassle-free experience. You’ll get to enjoy a delicious lunch and alcoholic beverages while discovering the unique flora and fauna of the area.

Tickets to all activities are included, and the tour starts at 7:00 AM from the meeting point at Friends Expeditions. Infant seats are available upon request, but infants must not sit on laps. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but transportation arrangements can be discussed for groups of more than four people.

Cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancelling less than 24 hours before the start time of the tour will result in the forfeiture of the amount paid. Additional information and confirmation will be provided at the time of booking.

Experience the thrill of Ecuador’s cloud forest with friends on this full-day tour to Mindo. Book your spot today!

2. 8-Day Galápagos Hotel-Based Tour & Quito´s World Heritage City Highlights

Embark on an 8-day adventure to explore the Galápagos Islands and the historic city of Quito. During your stay in the Galápagos, you’ll enjoy 7 nights of accommodations at selected hotels and guided tours led by certified English/Spanish speaking guides. Don’t worry about snorkeling gear—we’ll provide fins and a wetsuit for excursions that include water activities.

Please keep in mind that there is a $10000 (American dollars) entrance fee for the Galapagos National Park that must be paid upon arrival at the airport—CASH ONLY. There is no ATM at the airport, so please make sure to bring enough cash. We’ll help organize your flight to and from the Galápagos Islands, so you don’t have to worry about transportation.

You’ll also have the opportunity to explore Quito’s World Heritage City highlights, with pickup points available from hotels in Quito or international airport shuttle services in both airports in Galapagos Islands. Please note that infants must sit on laps and the tour is not wheelchair accessible. We’ll try our best to accommodate any specific dietary requirements—be sure to let us know at the time of booking. Don’t let weather conditions discourage you from joining us, as the tour operates in all weather conditions. And when you’re ready to wind down, you can head to the nearby pub!

Everything You Need to Know About Quito, Ecuador

Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is a beautiful city that is rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. The city is home to many historical landmarks, beautiful parks, and museums. It is one of the most-visited destinations in South America, attracting thousands of tourists every year. In this blog post, we will answer the most frequently asked questions about Quito.

1. Where is Quito Located?

Quito is located in the northern region of Ecuador, in the Andes Mountains. It is situated at an altitude of 2,800 meters (9,200 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest capital cities in the world.

2. What is the Language Spoken in Quito?

The official language spoken in Quito is Spanish. However, there are many indigenous languages spoken in the surrounding region. English is also spoken in many tourist areas, but it’s not as widely spoken as Spanish.

3. What is the Weather Like in Quito?

Quito has a subtropical highland climate with mild temperatures year-round. The average temperature during the day is between 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), and it can drop to as low as 6°C (43°F) at night. The climate in Quito is perfect for exploring the city’s top attractions any time of the year.

4. What are Some Must-Visit Attractions in Quito?

Quito is known for its stunning colonial architecture, historical landmarks, and scenic vistas. Here are some of the must-visit attractions in Quito:

a. La Mitad del Mundo:

La Mitad del Mundo, or the Middle of the World, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Quito. It’s a monument located on the equator line that marks the earth’s zero-degree latitude.

b. The Historic Center of Quito:

The historic center of Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features many impressive colonial buildings, museums, and churches. The most famous landmarks in the historic center include the Plaza de la Independencia, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Church of the Society of Jesus.

c. TelefériQo:

TelefériQo offers one of the best views of Quito from high above. This cable car ride takes you up to a mountain known as Cruz Loma, where you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the city.

5. What is the Best Time to Visit Quito?

Quito can be visited year-round thanks to its mild climate. However, the best time to visit is from June to September or December to January, during the dry season. During these months, you can enjoy sunny weather and avoid the heavy rainfall that occurs during the wet season from March to May and September to November.

6. How Safe is Quito for Tourists?

Quito is generally regarded as a safe city for tourists, but like any city, there are some precautions you should take. Avoid walking alone at night, and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. It’s also a good idea to take a taxi instead of public transportation at night.

7. What is the Currency Used in Quito?

The official currency in Quito is the US Dollar. This means that you don’t need to exchange currency if you are coming from the United States.

8. What is the Food Like in Quito?

Quito offers a diverse range of food options, from traditional Ecuadorian cuisine to international dishes. Some of the must-try dishes in Quito include ceviche, empanadas, and tamales. There are also many street food vendors and restaurants that serve amazing food at affordable prices.

9. What is the Nightlife Like in Quito?

Quito has a vibrant nightlife scene with many bars and clubs to choose from. The Mariscal neighborhood is the most popular area for nightlife, with many bars and clubs offering live music and dancing.

10. How Can I Get Around Quito?

Quito has a good public transportation system, including buses, taxis, and a metro system. The metro system is the newest addition to Quito’s transportation network and is a fast and efficient way to get around the city. Taxis are also affordable and can be easily hailed down on the street.

Conclusion

Quito, Ecuador has much to offer tourists, with its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural scenery, and modern amenities. We hope this blog post has answered your questions about Quito and has inspired you to visit this beautiful city soon. Remember to take precautions while traveling and to explore all that Quito has to offer!