Located in a unique setting between the Andean mountains, the city stands out not only for its stunning colonial architecture but also for its proximity to exceptional natural destinations. Whether you want to dive into its museums’ history, enjoy Andean cuisine, or embark on a day trip to the majestic landscapes surrounding Quito, the options are endless.
But… how can you enjoy it safely, completely, and without overspending? That’s what we’ll discuss in this article.
Quito for all tastes: The people’s favorites
From its impressive historic center, full of colonial architecture, to its surrounding areas filled with nature and culture, Quito adapts to the interests of all types of travelers. Now, let’s explore the most beloved destinations and activities for travelers from all over the world.
Quito Tours in historic center
When we think of Ecuador’s capital, it’s impossible not to picture Quito’s historic center. Many tours begin at Plaza de la Independencia, the city’s heart. Here, you’ll find several of the city’s most iconic buildings, such as the Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito, one of the largest and oldest churches in South America, and the Carondelet Palace, the seat of the Ecuadorian government, dating back to the 16th century.
Along the route, you will marvel at the stunning colonial architecture that adorns Quito’s streets. The Church of the Society of Jesus, known for its lavish gold decoration, is one of the most emblematic Baroque works in Latin America. Every detail inside, from the main altar to the decorated columns, will transport you to a time of splendor.
Another highlight is the Church of San Francisco, a monastery dating from 1534, considered one of the largest and oldest architectural complexes in Latin America.
Additionally, you can explore La Ronda Street, one of Quito’s most traditional, famous for its bars, restaurants, and artisan workshops. This area is perfect for taking a break, enjoying a coffee, and watching local artists create their works.
It’s no wonder travelers from all over the world prefer to book Old Town Quito Ecuador hotels. Our guests at Hotel Ecuatreasures assure us that it’s an unparalleled cultural experience due to its proximity to the best sites, its safety, and the boutique and Andean touches that characterize us.
Quito Cable Car
The TeleferiQo is one of the city’s most thrilling attractions, perfect for those looking for a combination of adventure, nature, and spectacular views. This cable car is located in the Valle de los Chillos, just outside of Quito, and takes visitors up to 4,100 meters above sea level, at the top of the Pichincha Volcano.
During the ascent, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking landscape that changes as you rise. At first, you’ll see the vast city of Quito stretching into the distance, surrounded by mountains. As you ascend, the vegetation becomes denser, and the landscape transforms, offering you a spectacular panoramic view of the city and its surroundings. Depending on the weather, visitors can enjoy clear views of nearby volcanoes like Cotopaxi or Cayambe, creating a unique and captivating experience.
Once at the Cruz Loma station, you can opt to hike along the natural trails, which offer even more stunning views. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take the trail leading to the summit of Pichincha Volcano, a challenging but rewarding hike that offers a completely different perspective of the city. If you prefer not to hike, you can simply relax and enjoy the panoramic views while observing the Andean landscape surrounding Quito.
Middle of the World: A journey between two hemispheres
Located just 20 minutes north of downtown, this site marks the equator, the place where the planet is divided into two hemispheres: the northern and southern hemispheres. It is one of the most exciting experiences for travelers, as you can literally be in two hemispheres at once.
Upon arriving at the complex, you’ll be greeted by the famous Middle of the World Monument, a giant column marking the exact location of the equator. It’s a perfect spot for photos, with one foot in each hemisphere, and to experience the incredible feeling of being at the center of the world.
In addition to the photo opportunity, the site features several museums and interpretation centers, where you can learn about the geographical and cultural history of the equator line. The Equatorial Museum, for example, offers a fascinating look at how the exact location of the equator is determined and how it affects science and geography on the planet.
Don’t miss the Intiñan Museum, located near the monument, which offers a series of interactive experiments related to gravity and the Coriolis force. At this museum, you can participate in fun activities, such as balancing an egg on a nail, which can only be done on the equator line.
Why choose a private tour?
Unlike group tours, private tours offer a range of advantages that turn a simple excursion into a unique and unforgettable experience.
One of the main benefits of a private tour is the exclusive attention. From the moment you decide to embark on this adventure, you’ll have a professional guide dedicated entirely to you and your group. You won’t have to worry about timing with other tourists or following a fixed schedule, as you set the pace of the tour.
Flexibility is key: if a particular place interests you more than expected, you can stay as long as you want, or if you prefer to skip a stop, the guide will adjust the itinerary to your preferences.
At Hotel Ecuatreasures, we understand that every visitor has their own expectations and desires when exploring Quito. That’s why we offer exclusive private tours designed to provide you with the best possible experience.
Private tour guides are local experts with in-depth knowledge of Quito’s history, culture, and secrets. Thanks to their training, they can provide details that are typically not mentioned on group tours. If you have specific questions or particular interests about any aspect of the city, a private tour allows you to get detailed answers, enriching your experience with valuable and personalized information.
Private tours are ideal for those looking for a peaceful experience without crowds. In a small group, the opportunity to interact directly with the guide and have more control over the pace of the tour creates a much more relaxed and safe environment.
We can take you to all of Quito’s iconic places… and beyond. We’ll discuss those other fascinating sites in the next section.
Quito Tours: Day trips
Want to go beyond the capital? If you stay at our Hotel Ecuatreasures, we’ll take you on the same day to explore some of the most impressive destinations in the Andean region.
Cochasquí Archaeological Park: A trip to the pre-Inca past
Just 45 minutes from Quito, Cochasquí Archaeological Park is one of the most important complexes in Ecuador, offering a fascinating tour through the ruins of an ancient pre-Columbian empire. This site features 15 truncated pyramids built by ancient Ecuadorian civilizations, making it a window into the past. During your visit, you’ll learn more about the ancient Caranqui culture that inhabited the region and enjoy breathtaking scenery, with the majestic Cayambe Volcano rising on the horizon. If you’re a history and archaeology enthusiast, this is a must-see place.
Condor Park: Meeting the most majestic birds
Just an hour and a half from Quito, Condor Park invites you to experience a unique birdwatching experience in a stunning Andean landscape. This bird rehabilitation and education center focuses on the conservation of the majestic Andean Condor, one of the region’s most iconic species. During your visit, you can admire these powerful and symbolic animals in their natural environment and enjoy an incredible flight show. The park is also home to other native species, making it an ideal destination for nature and photography lovers.
Otavalo: South America’s largest artisan market
About two hours by car from Quito, Otavalo is one of Ecuador’s most iconic cities. Known as the Intercultural Capital of Ecuador, is famous for its vibrant artisan market, especially the Plaza de los Ponchos, where you can find unique handmade products crafted by local artisans. From colorful textiles and traditional clothing to jewelry and ornaments, the market is a paradise for those seeking authentic Ecuadorian souvenirs.
Mindo Cloud Forest: A paradise for biodiversity lovers
Located about two hours from Quito, Mindo Cloud Forest is a world-renowned biodiversity sanctuary. This unique ecosystem houses a remarkable variety of flora and fauna, and it is also one of the best places in Ecuador for birdwatching, home to exotic species like the Mindo Hummingbird. Additionally, it offers a variety of adventure activities, such as zip-lining, hiking through the forest, and the chance to enjoy refreshing waterfalls.
Cotopaxi National Park: The world’s highest active volcano
Just an hour and a half from Quito, Cotopaxi National Park is one of Ecuador’s most stunning destinations, known for its majestic Cotopaxi Volcano, one of the highest peaks in the country at 5,897 meters. This active volcano, surrounded by Andean landscapes, offers a unique experience where you can enjoy hikes across its plains, explore the Limpiopungo Lagoon, and marvel at the panoramic views of the mountain.
Quilotoa Lagoon: A turquoise crater lake
This volcanic crater lake, with its intense turquoise waters, is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. During your visit, you can walk around the crater or descend to the shore of the lake, where you can rent a boat to enjoy the tranquility of the place. Additionally, the indigenous community of Quilotoa offers a wonderful opportunity to learn about the customs and traditions of the Andean people. This destination is perfect for those seeking a unique experience connecting with nature and local cultures.
FAQ summary for your Quito tour booking
Here, we answer some of the most common questions about organizing your visit to Quito and its surroundings, with a special focus on our private tours. Resolve your doubts and get ready for a unique experience!
How do I take a tour of Quito?
You can take a tour of Quito with us in a comfortable and personalized way. We offer private tours so you can explore the city at your own pace, with an expert guide who will tell you all about Quito’s history and culture. From the historic center to the modern Quito Cable Car and the Middle of the World, we’ll accompany you to the city’s most iconic landmarks. All of our tours are designed to provide you with a unique and worry-free experience.
How do I book a tour?
Booking a tour is easy. You can do it directly on our website or send us a message for more details. If you prefer a more personalized contact, you can also call us or write to us on WhatsApp. We’ll help you choose the tour that best fits your interests and coordinate the date and time that works best for you.
What to do in Quito at night?
Quito offers several nightlife activities to enjoy. You can stroll through the illuminated historic center, visiting squares like Plaza Grande and Plaza de San Francisco, where the colonial architecture comes to life at night. You can also enjoy restaurants offering delicious Ecuadorian cuisine, or take a nighttime tour to see the city from a different perspective. Additionally, there are options to enjoy live music, bars, and cozy cafés.
How do I get to the Quito Cable Car?
The Quito Cable Car is one of the city’s most popular attractions, and getting there is easy. If you’re staying at our hotel, we can arrange private transportation for you. If you prefer to go on your own, you can take a taxi or public transportation from the historic center. The cable car will take you up to 3,200 meters in altitude, offering stunning views of the city and the surrounding volcanoes.
What to do near Quito?
Quito is surrounded by incredible destinations to explore. Just a few hours from the city, you can visit places like Cotopaxi National Park, Quilotoa Lagoon, Mindo, and Otavalo. You can also explore the Cochasquí Archaeological Park or enjoy the beauty of Condor Park. If you prefer to stay closer, Quito’s Historic Center offers activities like walking through its cobblestone streets and visiting the famous Plaza de la Independencia.
What is the Middle of the World?
It refers to the geographic line that divides the planet into the northern and southern hemispheres. Located just outside Quito, it is one of Ecuador’s most famous monuments, where you can literally stand with one foot in each hemisphere. It is a must-visit for anyone coming to Quito and wanting to learn about the geography of the planet.
Where is the Middle of the World?
It is located in Cayambe, just 26 km north of Quito, at the Monument to the Middle of the World, where you will find a monument marking the equatorial line. It’s a popular destination for tourists and offers interactive experiences teaching about the equator, gravity, and other fascinating scientific facts.
Do you offer private tours for groups?
Yes, we organize private tours for both large and small groups. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or colleagues, we can tailor our tours to your needs.
