Activities Quito

Quito, Ecuador: A Comprehensive Guide to Tourist Activities

Welcome to the enchanting capital city of Ecuador, Quito! Sitting high in the Andes at an elevation of 2,850 meters (9,350 feet), this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a unique blend of history, culture, and adventure. Here are some exciting activities to immerse yourself in during your visit:

  1. Old Town Quito (La Capital)

    • Explore the historic center of Quito, filled with beautiful colonial architecture, churches, and plazas. Don’t miss the iconic Basílica del Voto Nacional and the Church of La Compañía de Jesús.

  2. Mitad del Mundo

    • Visit the Middle of the World Complex (Mitad del Mundo), where you can straddle the equator line, stand in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, and witness some interesting optical illusions.

  3. TeleferiQo

    • Ride the TeleferiQo cable car to enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding volcanic landscape from the heights of Cruz Loma (4,100 meters/13,500 feet).

  4. Equatorial Monument

    • Located just a few kilometers north of the city center, this monument marks the exact spot where the equator crosses Earth. Interactive exhibits and experiments demonstrate the unique characteristics of being on the equator.

  5. El Panecillo

    • Climb (or take the TeleferiQo to) El Panecillo for a stunning view of Quito and its surrounding mountains. The hill is crowned by the Virgin of Quito statue, which serves as an iconic symbol of the city.

  6. Museums

    • Visit museums like Museo Mindalae, Museo de la Ciudad, and Museo Inti Ñan to learn about Ecuadorian history, art, culture, and indigenous traditions.

  7. Markets & Artisanal Shops

    • Browse the vibrant local markets such as Mercado Central and Mercado Artesanal La Mariscal for traditional Ecuadorian textiles, handicrafts, jewelry, and souvenirs.

  8. Food & Drink

    • Savor delicious Ecuadorian cuisine in the city’s many restaurants, including Cuy (guinea pig), empanadas, and tamales. Don’t forget to try chicha de jora, a traditional corn beer!

  9. Day Trips

    • Take day trips to nearby attractions like the Papallacta hot springs, Cotopaxi National Park (South America’s highest active volcano), and the town of Otavalo, famous for its indigenous market.