Quito, the capital city of Ecuador, is a vibrant and colorful destination that offers visitors endless opportunities to explore its unique culture, history, and natural beauty. Its winding cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and stunning backdrop of the Andes Mountains make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to South America. In this post, we’ll guide you through some of the best attractions and things to do in Quito, so you can make the most out of your trip to this fascinating city. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking to soak up the local culture, there’s something for everyone in Quito.
The 31 Best Things To Do Quito
- Private Transfer Service Quito International Airport Hotel
- Quito City Tour Teleferico Pichincha Volcano Hike
- Quilotoa Full Day
- Tour Andes 5 Nights 6 Days
- Quilotoa Plus Cotopaxi Tour One Day
- Middle of the World Cable Car and Quito City Tour
- History Urban Legends of Quito and the Middle of the World
- Andes and Amazon Experience
- Quito City Tour and Equator Line
- Cable Car and Quito Private City Tour
- Quito Extremo and Mitad Del Mundo
- Cotopaxi Biking and Hiking
- Mountain Bike in the Middle of the World
- Quito Old Town and Middle of the World Shared Tour
- Cotopaxi Quilotoa Banos and Jungle of Ecuador 6d 5n
- Old Town Quito Visiting Domes Towers and Secret Places Inside the Convents
- Airport Transfer Service in Quito City
- Quito Half Day City Explorer Historical Quito
- Private the Original Quito City Tour in Trolley
- Quito Discovery Walking Tour
- Quito Teleferiqo Cable Car Private Tour
- Full Day Otavalo Tour
- Discovering Ecuador by Public Bus
- Galapagos and Mainland Ecuador See Almost It All in 11 Days 1st Class Traveling
- 2 Days Private Excursion to Cotopaxi and Quilotoa
- Quito City Tour With Teleferico
- Quito City Sightseeing Tour Including Teleferico Cable Car Ride and Volcano Hike
- Cotopaxi National Park Hacienda from Quito
- Quito City Tour Including Teleferico and Mitad Del Mundo
- Quito City Tour Hop on Hop Off
- Quito Combo Tour Middle of the World Monument and Pululahua Hike
The 31 Best Things To Do Quito
1. Private Transfer Service Quito International Airport Hotel
Experience the effortless comfort of private transfer service from Quito International Airport to your hotel. Your journey begins with pickup from your hotel by a certified English/Spanish speaking guide who will whisk you away for a city tour. First stop is the ‘Middle of the World’ to witness the famous Mitad del Mundo monument. Your knowledgeable guide will share insider secrets about this famous landmark and teach you about Ecuadorian customs and traditions along the way. Up next is the Pululahua Crater, one of only two inhabited craters in the world. Take a scenic drive to Intinan Museum, where you’ll explore interactive exhibits and learn about the unique and fascinating geography of the equator.
Before the tour concludes, enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of Quito from atop the Teleférico cable car ride. You’ll end your tour with a smooth transfer back to your hotel. With all activities included, this private transfer service is a perfect way to experience Quito’s must-see sights with ease and comfort.
2. Quito City Tour Teleferico Pichincha Volcano Hike
Depart from your Quito hotel and embark on a tour to discover the must-see attractions in the city. Start off with a visit to Panecillo Hill for panoramic views of the city and then continue on to the Basilica Church and San Juan Mirador. Take a stroll through the colonial streets, and visit historic sites such as Independence Plaza, the cathedral, and the Government Palace. Additionally, you’ll get to see La Ronda Street, the Company Church, Santo Domingo Church, Sagrario Church, and San Francisco Church. Finally, ascend the Teleferico for stunning views of valleys and snow-capped mountains. Don’t miss the opportunity to hike around Ruco Pichincha volcano for a memorable experience. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the beautiful scenery.
3. Quilotoa Full Day
Experience the breathtaking natural beauty of Quilotoa, a stunning turquoise-colored lagoon located inside the Quilotoa volcano caldera. This full-day tour includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and entrance to the Quilotoa lagoon. You’ll have plenty of time to explore the area and take in the stunning views. Plus, enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.
The tour starts with a convenient pickup from your hotel lobby at 08:00 AM. From there, you’ll head to Laguna Quilotoa where you can admire the stunning beauty of the lagoon. Next, we’ll take you to Quilotoa, where you’ll have free time to explore the area.
Throughout the trip, we’ll make stops at other interesting locations that are sure to excite and intrigue you. Our friendly and knowledgeable guide will be there to answer any questions and provide useful insights about the region.
Please note that confirmation will be received at the time of booking and that the tour is not wheelchair accessible. Infants must sit on laps, but most travelers can participate. This is a private tour/activity, so only your group will participate.
Cancellation policy applies – you may cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund, but if you cancel less than 24 hours before the start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
4. Tour Andes 5 Nights 6 Days
Experience the best of Ecuador’s natural attractions on this 5-night, 6-day tour without having to worry about admission tickets, transfers, and accommodation. This tour is designed with first-time visitors in mind and allows you to tailor your itinerary, giving you the freedom to tweak your private schedule.
Your private guide will be with you throughout the tour, helping you overcome any language barriers and offering a deeper understanding of local culture. Sit back and soak up the scenery while someone else drives you to some of the top attractions in Ecuador, such as Baños Quilotoa Lagoon and Cotopaxi National Park.
The tour includes breakfast and two lunches, as well as pickup and drop-off from any hotel in Quito. Your adventure starts with a visit to Cotopaxi National Park on Day 1, followed by seeing the stunning Quilotoa Lake on Day 2. On Day 3, you’ll explore Baños de Agua Santa, another must-visit destination in Ecuador.
Confirmation will be received at the time of booking, and you’ll have the assurance that everything is taken care of and ready for you when you arrive in Ecuador.
5. Quilotoa Plus Cotopaxi Tour One Day
Discover two of the top natural attractions in Ecuador on this one-day private tour from Quito. Explore Cotopaxi National Park and the Quilotoa Lagoon at your own pace without worrying about transportation or navigating the sites alone. With a private guide, you can create an itinerary that meets your interests and timeframe while taking in the stunning scenery and wildlife. Begin with a visit to Cotopaxi National Park and then head to the Laguna de Limpiopungo for more picturesque views. Enjoy lunch before continuing to the breathtaking Quilotoa Lagoon. With hotel pickup and drop-off included, you can relax and enjoy the ride while checking off two must-see destinations on your Ecuador itinerary.
6. Middle of the World Cable Car and Quito City Tour
This full-day tour offers a hassle-free way to see the best of Quito with a certified tour guide. Explore the Equator Line Museum, ride the cable car and visit key attractions such as the Basilica del Voto Nacional and old town. Private transportation is included for your convenience. Lunch is also provided, along with entrance fees for the cable car ride and Intiñan Solar Museum. Meet at Nu House Boutique Hotel and ask for “Plaza Foch” located at La Marisca.
7. History Urban Legends of Quito and the Middle of the World
Discover the history and urban legends of Quito and the Middle of the World on this guided tour. After being picked up at Holiday Inn Express Quito, your guide will take you on a journey to explore some of the most fascinating landmarks of the city. You will start with a visit to the Basilica del Voto Nacional followed by a stop at El Panecillo, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of Quito.
You will then continue your journey to the Middle of the World, where you will get to see the monument that marks the equator line. Entrance to the attraction is included in the tour, along with the services of a professional guide. Please note that admission tickets for the Basilica del Voto Nacional are not included in the tour price, and entry fees to churches are not covered either.
This is a walking tour that will take you to some of the most beautiful locations in Quito. It is not wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. The tour is operated by Gray Line Ecuador and can accommodate up to 25 travelers. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. Book now and take a step back in time to uncover the rich history of Quito and its many urban legends.
8. Andes and Amazon Experience
This 4-day Amazon Rainforest tour from Quito is perfect for those who want to experience Ecuador’s top rainforest attractions without worrying about planning logistics. With a local guide by your side, you will hike along the Avenue of the Waterfalls, go tubing on the Arajuno River, and bathe in natural hot springs at the foot of the Andes. The tour includes private transportation, canoe rides, meals as per itinerary, and pickups from your hotel or address within Quito’s district at 8:00 a.m. It’s an excellent choice for first-time visitors to Ecuador’s Amazon. The adventure starts with four stops on Day 1, and lots of inclusions await in the following days.
9. Quito City Tour and Equator Line
Experience the best of Quito with a private full-day tour that covers three of the city’s top attractions. Discover the UNESCO-listed historic center and its iconic sites like the Panecillo, the Basilica, and the San Fransisco Monastery. Journey to the Intiñan Museum, situated right on the Equator line, and learn about the indigenous cultures that inhabit this region. Marvel at the Pululahua Crater and its mystical cloud forest, an impressive geological wonder truly unique to this area. Enjoy a delicious lunch and transportation to and from your Quito hotel seamlessly included. This private tour offers ultimate flexibility to customize your itinerary according to your preferences and allows you to receive personalized attention from your knowledgeable guide.
10. Cable Car and Quito Private City Tour
After being collected from your hotel, you’ll embark on a half-day adventure around Quito. First, you’ll ascend to the city’s famous viewpoint in a cable car, from which you’ll be able to see the city in all its splendor at 4100 meters (13000 feet) above sea level. Then, enjoy a leisurely stroll around Quito’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stopping to visit major attractions such as the Presidential Palace, La Ronda, and the Cathedral. With your private guide you can focus only on the things that interest you, experiencing a personalized tour of the city’s main attractions. The tour includes private transport, a certified English speaking guide, entrance fees, and meals. You will be picked up from your hotel or address within Quito’s district at 9:00 a.m.
11. Quito Extremo and Mitad Del Mundo
Discover the adventurous side of Quito with the Quito Extremo and Mitad Del Mundo tour. This full-day tour takes you to visit the small town of Machachi, the stunning Cotopaxi National Park, the famous swing on top of a mountain alongside the Tungurahua volcano, and the exquisite Devil’s Cauldron waterfall. You also get to experience a cable car ride over the beautiful Pastaza River with scenic views. With the comfort of tourist transportation and a knowledgeable bilingual guide, this tour is perfect for adventure seekers. Entrance fees to La Casa del Arbol and Devil’s Cauldron waterfall are included. Please note that food and drinks, tips, and some details are not specified in the tour. The pickup and start time will be confirmed up until 9:00 PM the day before the tour. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to explore the best attractions and things to do in Quito.
12. Cotopaxi Biking and Hiking
Experience the stunning natural beauty of Cotopaxi National Park with our biking and hiking adventure. Join us on this full-day tour and explore the magnificent Andes mountains on two wheels and on foot.
Your English-speaking guide will meet you at the designated meeting point at 07:00 AM. From there, we will drive to Cotopaxi National Park where we will start our adventure.
The biking portion of the tour will take you through picturesque valleys and along winding mountain paths. You’ll have the opportunity to see stunning wildlife and take in breathtaking views of the surrounding volcanoes.
We will then switch gears and embark on a peaceful hike through the verdant landscape. Your guide will lead you on a moderate hike to explore the park’s hidden gems and wildlife during this 5-hour adventure.
A delicious lunch, bike rental, and helmet are included in the tour. Feel free to bring your own soft or energy drinks, but tips are not included.
Please note that confirmation of your booking will be sent upon completion. This tour is not wheelchair accessible and is not recommended for pregnant travelers or individuals with heart conditions or serious medical conditions. A moderate level of fitness is required.
Cancellation policy: This experience is non-refundable and cannot be postponed or canceled for any reason. In case of poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund. The tour requires a minimum number of travelers, and if minimums aren’t met, you’ll be offered a different date.
13. Mountain Bike in the Middle of the World
Explore two of Quito’s top attractions in one combo tour of Otavalo Market and the Middle of the World Monument. Enjoy a scenic bike ride and personalized attention from your bilingual guide in a small group. With lunch and soda/pop included, leave the planning and driving to someone else and cover more top Quito attractions in less time. Choose to head directly to the meeting point or request pickup from one of the available pickup points. The tour starts at 07:00 AM and ends back at the meeting point in Calle Mariscal Foch. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience Quito’s best attractions hassle-free.
14. Quito Old Town and Middle of the World Shared Tour
This full-day guided tour of Quito and the surrounds covers an extensive list of top attractions that you’d have a hard time getting to on foot. With private transportation and a personal bilingual guide, you’ll get to explore the steep hills of the city with the greatest of ease. The tour includes visits to Quito’s finest sights, such as the Basilica and Intiñan Museum, and includes all entrance fees. You’ll also have the chance to visit La Compañia and 4 other locations. This private tour ensures a personalized experience and is ideal for busy travelers. The tour starts at 9:00 AM and includes round-trip transportation from any Quito accommodations, with pickup details provided upon booking.
15. Cotopaxi Quilotoa Banos and Jungle of Ecuador 6d 5n
Experience the natural and cultural highlights of Ecuador on a 6-day private tour. Your guide will take care of transfers and activities, so you can sit back, relax, and explore the top attractions stress-free. The tour covers popular spots such as Cotopaxi National Park, Baños, Quilotoa Lagoon, and the Amazon rainforest. With daily hotel pickup and drop-off, you won’t have to worry about finding meeting points. Enjoy delicious meals and extras like drinks and additional activities. On Day 1, explore Cotopaxi National Park with 4 stops along the way. On Day 2, visit Quilotoa Lagoon.
16. Old Town Quito Visiting Domes Towers and Secret Places Inside the Convents
Explore the beautiful colonial Old Town of Quito on this small-group tour. Visit two of the city’s most important churches, including the Santo Domingo Church with its breathtaking view from the dome and the renowned ‘Golden Church’ or Church of the Society of Jesus. With your bilingual guide, discover other lesser-known attractions around the city and take advantage of plenty of opportunities for photos. This tour includes admission tickets to the top two attractions and is limited to a maximum of 12 people for a personalized experience. Join us at Independence Square at 10:00 AM for this unforgettable walking tour of Old Town Quito.
17. Airport Transfer Service in Quito City
Looking for a reliable airport transfer service in Quito City? Look no further! This tour offers an English-speaking certified naturalist guide-chauffeur who will provide you with all the tourist information you need during your ride. In addition, optional services such as travel insurance and tips are available for your convenience.
Pickup points are available in various locations, and drop-off at the JW Marriott Hotel Quito is included. If you prefer a different location, just let the guide know your address. This experience is not wheelchair accessible and not recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions, but most travelers can participate.
Please note that the tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If the tour is cancelled due to poor weather, however, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.
Don’t miss out on this convenient and informative airport transfer service. Book your spot today!
18. Quito Half Day City Explorer Historical Quito
Visit the largest and best-preserved historic center in South America with our Quito Half Day City Explorer Historical Quito tour. Discover the beauty of the city aboard one of our historic trolleys and admire the stunning churches and colonial monuments of the historic center. Stop at the Basilica del Voto Nacional Church for a brief explanation of its facade and continue to the iconic Panecillo viewpoint for breathtaking views of colonial and modern Quito. Walk to the Plaza de San Francisco, filled with history, and then to the Plaza Grande, the historical and political center of the city. Enjoy the best of Quito’s historical landmarks and learn about the rich history and culture of this beautiful city.
19. Private the Original Quito City Tour in Trolley
Explore the enchanting Quito city in style with a private trolley tour. Enjoy the comfort of being picked up from your hotel or join us directly at the meeting point. A professional guide will accompany you throughout the tour, providing insightful information about the city.
Admire the grandeur of Quito’s churches with entry fees included in the tour. No need to worry about gratuities or food and drink, as they are all covered by the tour.
Pickup points are available from selected hotels. If you prefer, you can choose to meet us at the Holiday Inn Express Quito. The tour ends back at the meeting point.
Join us on this unforgettable private tour of the original Quito city in a trolley.
20. Quito Discovery Walking Tour
Explore the cultural richness of Quito’s historical center on a 4-hour walking tour with a certified local guide. Meet your guide at Plaza de San Blas and dive into the local atmosphere as you stroll through the cobblestone streets. Start at Mercado Central, a lively market filled with colorful stalls and local flavors. Then, head to Independence Plaza, home to the Independence Monument, Government Palace, and Archbishop’s Palace. Take some time to admire the colonial architecture of La Compañía de Jesús, a Jesuit church known for its impressive facade made of volcanic stone. Throughout the tour, your guide will share interesting insights about the city’s history, culture, traditions, and gastronomy. Enjoy a comprehensive tour that will leave you with a deeper understanding of Quito’s past and present.
21. Quito Teleferiqo Cable Car Private Tour
Take in the stunning views of Quito and its surrounding Andean mountains with the Quito Teleferiqo Cable Car Private Tour. Your private driver will pick you up from your Quito hotel and transfer you to the famous TeleferiQo cable car. From there, soak up the panoramic views of the city and the Pichincha Volcano from over 13,000 feet above sea level. The cable car ride leads to an observation deck, providing you with a breathtaking view you won’t soon forget. With several tour times to choose from, you can fit this tour into your schedule with ease. Enjoy a personalized experience with your private guide and an air-conditioned vehicle. All fees and taxes are already included, so all you have to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see Quito from a whole new perspective.
22. Full Day Otavalo Tour
This full-day tour takes you to experience the best of Imbabura Province outside of Quito. Departing from Quito, your bilingual guide will take you to the Guayllabamba valley where you will explore Cayambe town and cross over the equator line. Next, visit the largest indigenous market in South America, the Mercado de Ponchos in Otavalo, where you can shop for traditional crafts and textiles.
During the tour, take a peaceful hike to Peguche waterfall, a sacred site where locals bathe on the eve of Inti Raymi. Finally, head to Casa Ñanda Mañachi cultural house to learn more about the people of Otavalo and immerse yourself in their music and culture.
This tour includes transportation to and from Quito, entrance to Casa Ñanda Mañachi cultural house, and a bilingual English and Spanish-speaking guide. Join this tour to discover the best attractions of Imbabura Province.
23. Discovering Ecuador by Public Bus
Explore Ecuador like a local on this 17-day tour that takes you by public bus to some of the country’s top attractions. Discover the vibrant culture and natural beauty of Ecuador while leaving the planning to the experts. Your journey will take you through Quito, Otavalo Market, Cuicocha Lake, Ten a, Baños, Isla de Plata, and Liana Jungle. Travel with a small group of no more than 12 and benefit from the attention of your knowledgeable guide. With a combination of guided sightseeing and free time, you’ll have the chance to explore on your own and get insider tips from your guide. Breakfast is included throughout the trip, with three lunches also provided. Don’t miss out on seeing the best of Ecuador without the hassle of planning. Book your public bus tour today!
24. Galapagos and Mainland Ecuador See Almost It All in 11 Days 1st Class Traveling
Explore the best of Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands with an 11-day small group tour. With a maximum of eight participants, you’ll receive personalized attention from your expert guide as they take care of all the arrangements for transfers, tours, activities, meals, and accommodations. Travel in air-conditioned transport and overcome any language barriers to discover the top attractions in Quito, Otavalo, Quilotoa, and the Galapagos. Daily hotel pickup and drop-off make for easy, hassle-free travel. Lodging is included for 5 nights, along with almost all entry fees (except for the Galapagos airport park entry fee), and an air-conditioned vehicle. Please note, airfare, alcohol, travel insurance, government-imposed visa fees, the Galapagos “migration fee,” the Galapagos park airport tax, and anything not mentioned in the tour description are not included. Don’t miss out on this comprehensive tour of Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands.
25. 2 Days Private Excursion to Cotopaxi and Quilotoa
Looking for a private excursion in Ecuador? The 2 Days Private Excursion to Cotopaxi and Quilotoa might be your perfect option! Over the course of two days, you will explore the stunning landscapes of the Cotopaxi National Park and the Quilotoa Crater Lake.
On the first day, you will visit the Cotopaxi National Park, which is home to the Cotopaxi volcano, the highest active volcano in the world. During this visit, you will make four stops and enjoy a scenic view of the Andes mountain range.
On the second day, you will visit the famous Quilotoa Crater Lake. This breathtaking natural wonder is a must-see attraction in Ecuador. During this full-day tour, you will make four stops and hike the rim of the crater for stunning views of the lake.
The excursion includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner along with drinks, entrance fees to indigenous huts, and a mule or horse ride. The pick-up will be done at 8:00 a.m. from the address or hotel where travelers will stay the night before the excursion.
Please note that this tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers and not wheelchair accessible. Infant seats are available and travelers are expected to have a moderate physical fitness level. Finally, please confirm that this experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason.
26. Quito City Tour With Teleferico
Combine a city tour of downtown Quito with a ride on the teleférico during this 6-hour experience. You’ll get panoramic views of the area around Quito from the cable car and learn about the city’s history through visits to the historic center’s squares, churches, and significant buildings. This fully narrated tour includes comprehensive city tour of Quito, ride on the teleferico, and round-trip transportation from select Quito hotels. You’ll be picked up at your hotel outside of the city at an additional charge. Certified English/Spanish-speaking guide and entrance fees as specified in the program are included. Food, drinks, and tips are not included. After setting a departure time with your guide, be ready in your Quito hotel lobby for pickup.
27. Quito City Sightseeing Tour Including Teleferico Cable Car Ride and Volcano Hike
Experience the best of Quito on this sightseeing tour with cable car ride and volcano hike. With a certified English/Spanish speaking guide, you’ll learn about the traditions and culture of Quito as you explore the city streets. Journey across the skies on South America’s highest gondola and take in epic views. Then, hike a stunning volcano during a three-hour trek that showcases the natural beauty of the area. This tour is perfect for first-time visitors and families, and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, admission fee for Teleferico La compañia Church, but excludes meals and tips. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience in Quito!
28. Cotopaxi National Park Hacienda from Quito
This tour departing from Quito offers you the opportunity to explore the captivating Cotopaxi National Park Hacienda. The majestic active Cotopaxi Volcano will greet you as you arrive in the national park, and from there, you’ll visit the Limpiopungo lagoon and hike to the forest of chuquirahuas, reaching an elevation of 4200 meters (if weather permits). The tour then takes a stop at Quilotoa Volcano, with a breathtaking turquoise lagoon in its crater – one of Ecuador’s most beautiful landscapes. Here you’ll appreciate the spectacular view of the volcano (if weather conditions allow) and enjoy lunch (at your own expense) before returning to Quito. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from selected hotels in Quito, transportation, bilingual guide service, entrance fees to Cotopaxi Museum, Quilotoa Lagoon visit, and horseback riding.
29. Quito City Tour Including Teleferico and Mitad Del Mundo
Get a taste of Quito’s rich culture and history with this private tour that takes you to the city’s top attractions. Led by a certified English/Spanish speaking guide, you’ll start exploring the city’s colonial-era landmarks such as the Basilica and Independence Plaza. The tour also includes a ride aboard the Teleférico, which will take you more than 13000 feet above the city to enjoy breathtaking views. Finally, you’ll wrap up the day with a visit to Mitad del Mundo, a monument marking the world’s equator split. With entrance fees included and hotel pickup and drop-off, you’re sure to have a personalized experience during this comprehensive tour.
30. Quito City Tour Hop on Hop Off
Embark on a fun and relaxing tour to explore the best of Quito on a double-decker bus. Admire the landmarks and monuments of the city’s historic center, the largest in South America. Get insightful commentary from an audio guide (available in English and Spanish) as you visit famous locations and stop at Panecillo Hill to enjoy panoramic views from the most important lookout in Quito. Take great photos from the top of the bus and enjoy a memorable ride through the city. The Quito City Tour bus includes an audio guide and is the perfect way to see the highlights of the city in less time.
31. Quito Combo Tour Middle of the World Monument and Pululahua Hike
Experience the incredible geography and scenery of Ecuador on a full-day excursion to two of its most fascinating attractions. The Middle of the World Monument marks the earth’s equator, allowing you to straddle both hemispheres at the same time. After this unique photo opportunity, head to Pululahua National Park, a geo-botanical reserve inside a dormant volcano. Here, you can explore the incredible biodiversity of the area, home to over 50 species of exotic plants and more than 20 different animals. Entrance fees, bottled water, and round-trip hotel transport are included in the tour, as well as an optional lunch. This is an incredible opportunity to experience some of Ecuador’s most unique attractions in one unforgettable day. Book now and get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget!
Frequently Asked Questions About Quito: A Comprehensive Guide for Tourists
Quito is a city in the north of Ecuador, known for its stunning colonial architecture, beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. As a popular tourist destination, there are many questions that travelers have about the city before visiting. In this post, we will provide answers to the most frequently asked questions about Quito to help you plan your trip effectively.1. What is the best time to visit Quito?
The best time to visit Quito is during the dry season, which runs from June to September. During this time, the weather is mild and sunny, and there are fewer chances of rain. The rainy season, from October to May, can make some tourist sites inaccessible, and the city can become foggy and cloudy. However, if you enjoy cheaper prices and fewer crowds, then visiting in the rainy season might be a better option for you.2. What is the altitude of Quito, and how does it affect tourists?
Quito is known for its high altitude, sitting at 2,850 meters (9,350 feet) above sea level. It’s important for tourists to be aware of this because the high altitude can affect people differently. Some visitors may experience altitude sickness, which can lead to symptoms such as headaches, nausea, fatigue, and difficulty breathing.To avoid altitude sickness, it’s recommended that you take your time acclimatizing to the altitude by staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, eating light meals, and taking things slowly. If you experience severe altitude sickness symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.3. What are the best places to visit in Quito?
Quito has many beautiful tourist destinations that are worth visiting. Some of the most popular ones include:- The historic Old Town: This area is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its stunning colonial architecture and beautiful churches.– The Mitad del Mundo monument: Located at the equator, this landmark is a popular tourist spot where visitors can straddle the northern and southern hemispheres.
– The Teleferico: Take a cable car ride up to the top of Pichincha volcano for stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
– La Ronda: This charming cobblestone street is known for its artisan shops, traditional restaurants, and lively nightlife.
4. Is Quito safe for tourists?
Quito is generally a safe city for tourists, but like any other city, you need to take precautions to avoid becoming a victim of crime. Some tips to stay safe in Quito include:- Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.– Keep your valuables safe, and don’t carry large sums of money or expensive items with you.
– Use licensed taxi services or ride-sharing apps to avoid being scammed by fake taxi drivers.
– Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.
5. What is the local currency in Quito, and can you use credit cards?
The national currency in Ecuador is the US dollar, which is widely accepted in Quito. Most shops, restaurants, and hotels accept credit cards, but it’s a good idea to carry cash with you as well, especially when visiting local markets or smaller establishments.6. What is the food like in Quito?
Ecuadorian cuisine is diverse and delicious, with many traditional dishes worth trying. Some popular foods in Quito include:- Locro: A hearty potato soup with cheese and avocado.– Ceviche: A seafood dish made with raw fish marinated in lime juice and spices.
– Llapingachos: Fried potato cakes stuffed with cheese and served with avocado and meat.
– Hornado: Roasted pork served with corn, potatoes, and salad.
7. What is the best way to get around Quito?
The best way to get around Quito is by public transportation. The city has an efficient bus system that serves most areas of the city. Taxis are also readily available, but make sure to use licensed services only.How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Quito
Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is a beautiful city full of history, culture, and natural attractions. If you are planning to visit Quito as a tourist, you will find many interesting things to do and see. In this guide, we will give you some ideas on how to spend your time in Quito and make the most out of your trip.1. Visit the Old Town
If you want to experience the historical side of Quito, you should start by visiting the Old Town, also known as the Historic Center. This area is considered one of the best-preserved colonial centers in South America and was declared a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in 1978.To explore the Old Town, you can start at the Plaza de la Independencia, also known as the Plaza Grande. This square is surrounded by important buildings such as the Presidential Palace, the Cathedral, and the Archbishop’s Palace. From there, you can walk along the narrow streets and alleys, and discover historic places such as the La Compañía de Jesús Church, the San Francisco Church, and the Santo Domingo Church.2. Enjoy the View from El Panecillo
El Panecillo is a hill in the center of Quito that offers one of the best views of the city. At the top of the hill, you will find a statue of the Virgin Mary, known as La Virgen de Quito. The statue is made of aluminum and stands 45 meters tall, making it one of the tallest statues in South America.To reach El Panecillo, you can take a taxi or walk up the hill. We recommend going during the day, as the view of the city is breathtaking. If you go at night, the statue is illuminated and the view of the city lights is also impressive.3. Visit the Middle of the World
Ecuador is one of the few countries in the world that is crossed by the equator. To celebrate this fact, the Middle of the World monument was built just outside of Quito. This monument marks the spot where the equator passes through Ecuador.At the Middle of the World, you can take a guided tour of the museum and learn about the history and science of the equator. You can also take a photo with one foot in each hemisphere, and see demonstrations of the Coriolis effect, which demonstrates how water flows in opposite directions in the northern and southern hemispheres.4. Explore the Parks and Natural Areas
Quito is also known for its parks and natural areas. One of the most popular parks is the Parque Metropolitano, which is located in the hills of Quito and offers beautiful views of the city. This park has many trails for hiking, a butterfly farm, and a small zoo.Another natural area to visit is the Pichincha Volcano, which is visible from Quito. To reach the top, you can take a cable car called the Teleférico, which offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. At the top, you can hike around the volcanic crater and enjoy the views.5. Visit the Markets
Finally, if you want to experience the local culture and taste some traditional food, you should visit the markets in Quito. One of the most famous markets is the Mercado Central, which offers a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and meat, as well as handicrafts and souvenirs.Another market to visit is the Otavalo Market, located about two hours north of Quito. This market is known for its colorful textiles, handicrafts, and traditional clothing.Book Your Tour Now
Quito offers many interesting things to do and see for tourists. Whether you want to explore the historical side of the city, enjoy the natural areas, or experience the local culture, there is something for everyone. By following this guide, you can make the most out of your trip to Quito and have an unforgettable experience.
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