Explore Quito

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Quito, Ecuador's capital, sits high in the Andean foothills at an altitude of 2,850m. Constructed on the foundations of an ancient Incan city, it’s known for its well-preserved colonial center, rich with 16th- and 17th-century churches and other structures blending European, Moorish and indigenous styles. These include the cathedral, in the Plaza Grande square, and ultra-ornate Compañia de Jesús Jesuit church. ― Google

🇪🇨 Quito Travel Guide

🕰️ Best Time to Visit:

  • June to September (Dry Season): Best weather for sightseeing, clear skies, and outdoor activities.

  • December (Festivities): Christmas and Quito’s Foundation Day (Dec 6) bring cultural events and celebrations.

  • Avoid: April and May (heaviest rain).

✈️ How to Get There:

  • By Air:
    Fly into Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) – one of South America's most modern airports, located 45 minutes from the city center.

  • From Airport to City:
    Use official taxis, private transfers, or the Aeroservicios shuttle.

🗺️ Top Attractions:

  1. Mitad del Mundo – Stand on the equator line.

  2. Old Town (Centro Histórico) – UNESCO World Heritage Site with colonial churches and plazas.

  3. Basilica del Voto Nacional – Stunning Gothic architecture and panoramic city views.

  4. TelefériQo – Cable car up Pichincha Volcano for breathtaking views and hikes.

  5. La Ronda Street – Historic bohemian street filled with artisan shops and cafes.

  6. El Panecillo – Hilltop statue of the Virgin of Quito.

  7. Museo del Banco Central – Ecuador’s best museum for archaeology and ethnography.

🎯 Activities to Do:

  • Take a walking tour of Old Town.

  • Ride the cable car and hike to Rucu Pichincha.

  • Visit Otavalo Market (day trip) for handicrafts.

  • Explore Cotopaxi Volcano (2 hours away).

  • Sample Ecuadorian chocolate and coffee at local workshops.

  • Attend a folklore dance show or music night in La Floresta.

🏨 Accommodation:

  • Luxury:

    • Casa Gangotena (Historic center)

    • Illa Experience Hotel (San Marcos district)

  • Mid-range:

    • Hotel Patio Andaluz

    • Hotel Casona 1914

  • Budget:

    • The Secret Garden Quito (backpackers)

    • Community Hostel

🍽️ Food and Restaurants:

  • Try local dishes: Locro de papa (potato soup), Fritada, Llapingachos, and Cuy (guinea pig – a delicacy).

  • Top restaurants:

    • Zazu – Fine dining, Ecuadorian fusion.

    • Urko Cocina Local – Innovative tasting menus with indigenous ingredients.

    • La Purísima – Trendy, modern Andean cuisine.

    • Café Mosaico – Great food and panoramic view of Quito.

🧑‍🎨 Local Culture:

  • Quito blends indigenous, Spanish colonial, and modern mestizo cultures.

  • Strong emphasis on family, religion, and festivals.

  • Locals (Quiteños) are generally polite, traditional, and welcoming.

  • Markets and handicrafts reflect the Andean identity – textiles, ceramics, silver jewelry.

  • Events: Semana Santa, Fiestas de Quito, and Inti Raymi (Andean solstice celebration).