Quito is truly one of the most unique destinations in the world. It has its fair share of superlatives! As a city capital, it’s closest in the world to the earth’s equator and the second highest in altitude. Even more, 7 volcanoes surround Quito on the Avenue of Volcanoes. Quito has the largest and best-preserved historic center in the Americas, designated as a World Heritage Site. So, Quito has plenty to explore with incredible culture and natural beauty.
Originally, I intended to have Quito just be my gateway to the Galapagos Islands. However, when I researched all there is to do in this amazing city, I extended my stay to explore many of its sites. So, read on to learn about Quito Ecuador attractions and all there is to see and do.
About Quito
Quito is the closest capital city to the equator at 0 Degree 15’ 0” S. It lies in the northern highlands and Guayllabamba river basin. As the second highest capital city in the world, Quito’s altitude is 2820 m (9,250 ft). Ecuador lies where the Pacific plates meet the northern Andes on the Avenue of Volcanoes. 7 of the 47 volcanos in Ecuador surround Quito. The city lies on the eastern slopes of Pichincha and it’s the only city this close to an active volcano. It last erupted in 1999. Other volcanoes near Quito include the renowned Cotopaxi and Quilotoa.
Quito is home to about 2.8 million people. However, the city is very narrow, fitting into this high mountain valley and pushing up the sides of the mountains. Therefore, the only places left to grow are to the north and south. Because of its altitude and location near the equator, Quito has a constant cool climate with average temperatures ranging in daytime at 70.5 F (21.4 C) and nighttime at 49.6 F (9.8 C). However, it has 2 seasons: dry season from June – August and wet season from September – May. April is the rainiest month.
3 Areas of Quito
These 3 areas are Central (including Centro Historico), Northern (modern) and Southern (industrial and working class). It has the largest and best-preserved historic center in the Americas. It became designated as a World Heritage Site with about 130 monumental buildings.
The history helps explain the incredible architecture and culture here, especially in Centro Historico. The Incas invaded Ecuador in the mid-15th century. Then, within a year the Spanish Conquest kept the country under their rule until late 18th century. During this time, they built incredible Spanish Colonial Architecture, monuments, churches, plazas throughout a cobblestone labyrinth. There is a very rich and deep history in this compact area, making for wonderful walking tours. Creoles ended Spanish rule in 1822 after a victory battle for Independence.
Travel Health & Safety Tips
At 2820 m (9,250 ft) above sea level, getting altitude sickness is a definite possibility. It’s best to take precautions and ease into your travels to let your body adjust to the altitude. Also, at this altitude, plus being on the equator, the UV radiation is strong. So, even on an overcast or cool day, put on that sunscreen. Like many places in South America, do not drink the tap water. And this also goes for ice and raw vegetables from street food. A good rule of thumb is to eat only cooked foods and raw fruits/vegetables with a rind. However, many motels and restaurants offer filtered water.
Also, beware of feral dogs roaming the streets. In less developed countries these dogs are often wild and territorial. In my opinion, it’s always best to have your tetanus vaccine before travelling. Also, keep your valuable locked up and cameras in front. Like many cities in Latin America, you need to be vigilant of your purse/backpack/camera. I had no troubles, and even had locals warn me to keep my pack/camera in front.
Related: Helpful Altitude Sickness Prevention Tips
Electrical & Money Currencies Same as U.S.
Ecuador uses the U.S. Dollar for currency to help boost their economy. Also, Ecuador uses the same electricity as U.S. with the 2 & 3-prong plugs. It’s the same current, so Americans don’t need adaptors.
Check out my YouTube Video on Quito!
Quito Ecuador Attractions
& Top Things to Do
Centro Historico Walking Tour
There is much history packed in this World Heritage Site, being the most well-preserved historic center in the Americas. With more than 130 monumental buildings, it’s helpful to have a guide explain everything. I enjoyed a walking tour with a local guide. I elaborate on top attractions to not miss in the Centro Historico. These are Teatro Sucre and Plaza del Teatro, Café del Teatro, San Agustin Monastery, Plaza Domingo and Iglesia de Santo Domingo, Plaza San Francisco and Monasterio de san Francisco (Café Tianguez), La Compania, Plaza de la Independence and Basilica del Voto Nacional.
Plaza San Francisco and Monasterio de San Francisco
This cobbled square is one of the oldest and most scenic in Quito, constructed in the 16th century. It was one of the city’s main trading centers (tienguez). The incredible backdrop of the plaza over the roofs showcases southern Quito and the peak of Pichincha Volcano. The monastery includes a church, overlooking the plaza. The church houses more than 3,500 pieces of religious art and is open for tours.
La Compania
This Baroque Jesuit church is one of the most beautiful buildings in Quito. It’s carved out of volcanic stone with an interior, grandiosely adorned by gold leaf. The exquisite detail is mesmerizing with religious motifs, such as, angels, cherubs and saints. Jesuits completed the church in 1865, and it’s currently open for tours. No photography is allowed inside the church.
Plaza de la Independence (Plaza Grande)
This central plaza is always busy with events and crowds. Its main monument represents the heroes of August 10, 1809, the Royal Audience of Quito, crying for independence from the Spanish monarchy. Other landmark buildings here include the Palacio del Gobierno (Presidential Palace), Iglesia de la Cathedral, the Archbishop’s Palace and the Plaza Grande Hotel. The changing of the guard happens twice daily at the Presidential Palace. Also, on Mondays at 11 am is the military ceremony.
Basilica del Voto Nacional
A relatively new landmark, ‘the Basilica’ became consecrated in 1988. It is the largest neo-Gothic Basilica in the Americas and compared to the Notre Dame in Paris. It stands on a steep hill northeast of Centro Historico, known for its viewpoints. On the tower climb, be sure to notice the nave and brightly colored stained glass. There’s a café inside that has delicious pastries and coffee.
Interestingly, the basilica remains unfinished. And let’s hope it remains that way. Because the legend goes, if it’s ever completed, Ecuador will perish. I got a local guide at the basilica to give me a tour, and he was fantastic. I highly suggest a guide to learn about details that would otherwise be overlooked.
El Panecillo – “Winged Virgin of Quito”
At the top of this volcanic hill stands Quito’s iconic statue, Woman of the Apocalypse, as described in Revelations. As Madonna with wings, she is made out of 7,000 pieces of aluminum. She is seen throughout the city on a clear day. Completed in 1975, the Virgin stands 45-metres tall on a globe, stepping on a snake. The Quito School of Art showed a change in tradition by showing the Madonna in motion, instead of static. The area surrounding the hill is sketchy, so take a taxi or public transit to the top of the hill. Inside the statue is a museum with a balcony for views. It opens at 9:30 am.
TelefériQo (Cable Car)
This cable car ride takes you up along the western side of Pichincha Volcano to a platform in just 10 minutes. You gain 1,000 more feet at 4050 m (13,300 ft). So, if you are still adjusting to Quito’s altitude, you may want to hold off on this for a day or 2.
At the lookout, there are snacks, coffee and even oxygen if needed. Also, there is horseback riding and hiking trails. It takes approximately 1.5 hour to hike to Cava del Oso or “bear cave.” Also, an iconic thing to do here is ride the swing with the panoramic view.
Mitad del Mundo Monument / Intiñan Solar Museum (Equator)
The most popular (but not necessarily accurate) way to visit the Equator Line is at Mitad del Mundo Monument. It is about a 45-minute drive north of Quito. This 100-foot (30m) pillar symbolically marks the equator line. With modern GPS technology, this monument is about 800 feet (240 m) from the official line. Beside the monument is a yellow line to pretend you are straddling the 2 hemispheres.
Near the monument (within walking distance) is the Intinan Solar Museum. It is technically closer to the official equator line according to GPS. The museum has interactive exhibits showing the Coriolis force. For example, you can try balancing an egg on a nail and see directions a sink drains. Also, there are informative displays on how the Incas determined the equator. The markets at the monument are some of the best in Quito for finding souvenirs and handicrafts.
Go to a Market
There are numerous markets in Quito. If you are up for a day trip, the Otavalo Market is about an hour’s drive from Quito. It’s considered one of the largest indigenous markets in all of South America. However, right in Quito’s Centro Historico is the Mercado San Francisco, the oldest market in town. Also, Calle de la Ronda is filled with boutique shops in the heart of town. The Mariscal Artisanal Market is a great place for handicrafts. Parque El Ejido Market is the third largest market in the city. The Inaquito Market is unique for its dairy, poultry and fresh produce markets. Also, outside of town at the Mitad del Mundo Monument (equator) are good shops for souvenirs.
Museo Guayasamin & La Capilla del Hombre Art Museum
This museum is spread over 3 buildings, including the house and studio of Ecuador’s most famous, modern artist, Oswaldo Guayasamin. He is referred to as the “Picasso of the Andes.” In the northern district, Bellavista, this houses a large collection of his art.
He is famous for his abstract, humanistic art symbolizing violence from the 20th century. For example, themes of his art reveal civil and world wars, genocide and political oppression. He dedicated his life to painting, sculpting and collecting. The museum also showcases his collection of archeology and art, from masters, such as, Picasso, Chagall, and Goya.
Take a Trip from Quito
Climb a Volcano
The city lies on the eastern slopes of Pichincha and it’s the only city this close to an active volcano. From the TelefériQo (Cable Car) platform, there are numerous hiking trails on Pichincha. It takes approximately 1.5 hour to hike to Cava del Oso or “bear cave.” The top of the Teleferico platform is at 13,451 ft (4,100 meters). Pichincha’s peak is 15,413 ft (4,698 meters).
Other volcanoes near Quito include Cotopaxi and Quilotoa. Cotopaxi is active now and the second highest mountain in Ecuador (5,897 m / 19,347 ft). Moreover, it’s the most popular mountain climb in the country because of its relative simplicity for a high-altitude climb. Quilotoa is a crater lake with a 2 m / 3 km caldera. It’s known for its gorgeous, turquoise waters and lies at an elevation of 12,841 ft / 3914 m. Also, I stopped at Cotocachi Cayapas National Park to see the crater lake on the way to Otavalo Market.
Go to a Cloud Forest
The subtropical cloud forests of Ecuador cover the slopes of the Andean mountains from about 900 meters to about 2500 meters. They are forests of high biodiversity. The cloud forest is a cool and humid environment with frequent canopy level cloud cover. Popular Cloud Forests near Quito are Maquipucuna and Mindo, both considered a Bird Watcher’s paradise.
Papallacta Hot Springs is located at an altitude of 3,250 m in the Andes mountains, just 2 hours from Quito, The Papallacta Hot Springs Spa and Resort provide a break with experiences of relaxation and rejuvenation.
Otavala Market is about an hour’s drive from Quito. It’s considered one of the largest indigenous markets in all of South America. However, keep in mind that Saturday is the biggest day for the market with the most vendors. I visited on a Tuesday and still found plenty selections buying a leather hat and 2 colorful backpacks.
Galapagos Islands is a 3-hour flight from Quito. Off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos archipelago consists of 21 islands with 18 being major. It’s located on the Nazca plate and is a volcanic hotspot. The youngest island, Isabela, has 5 volcanoes, including Sierra Negra, the most active in the Galapagos. The Galapagos National Park and Marine Reserve protect the land and water for research and conservation.
What to Eat in Quito
The food in Ecuador has many cuisines and influences based on its distinct regions, such as, the Amazon rainforest, Andean highlands and seafood from the coast. Also, there is Spanish influence like other Latin American countries. Here’s a list of popular dishes and food items. There are a lot of meat options, however, I will also include some vegan restaurant and food ideas.
Hornado is the roasting of a whole pig often served in highland markets. Popular side dishes along with it are llapingacho (fried potato cakes), mote / hominy (boiled grains), and vegetables.
Fanesca is a unique Ecuadorian soup, consisting of fresh Andean grains, beans, peas, and lentils, combined with salt cod cooked in milk. There should be 12 different grains and beans in the soup, symbolizing the 12 disciples. The soup is prepared only during Easter festivities.
Guatita is a thick stew with tripe simmering in peanut sauce and potatoes. It’s usually served with rice, avocado and pickled onions.
Pacari Chocolate – This high-quality brand has eclectic kinds to taste, such as, blueberry, cardamom & corn. I suggest the Lemongrass Chocolate because its unique, delicious blend of flavors are truly rare.
Locro de papa is a popular potato soup made with onions, garlic, cumin and cheese. Its toppings include cilantro and avocado.
Tigrillo is a casserole dish served for breakfast. It combines mashed green plantains, eggs and cheese.
Canelazo is an alcoholic beverage, served warm, that combines sugarcane alcohol, sugar, and cinnamon.
Ceviche – Ecuadorian fish ceviche is usually made with corvina, also known as merluza, similar to sea bass.
Cuy or Roasted Guinea Pig on a Stick
Where to Eat in Quito
If you are in Quito during Easter, don’t miss out on Fanesca. This delicious, thick soup has 12 ingredients to symbolize the 12 disciples. Some restaurants even have it all year long. In the Centro Historico we enjoyed Fanesca at San Ignacio Restaurant, recommended by a local guide. We all loved it and customized the 12 ingredients to our own taste.
For lunch I enjoyed Café del Fraile near the Independence Plaza for some authentic Ecuadorian food. A local guide recommended it. I enjoyed the cheese empanada and Locro de papa, the popular potato soup. This is a convenient location to enjoy Ecuadorian food.
The Secret Garden Rooftop – This rooftop restaurant and bar is the reason I chose The Secret Garden Hostel for my accommodation and most meals. This renowned rooftop offers one of the best views in Quito, overlooking the city’s Centro Historico and even the Winged Virgin Statue. However, because the views and food were so fantastic, I didn’t explore the food scene as much as I normally would. If you don’t stay here, try to find a rooftop restaurant in Quito for the ultimate ambiance. Also, if you post and tag Secret Garden on social media, they discount your total food and drink bill 50%!
Minka Chocolate Café – Located on the picturesque San Francisco Plaza is this café with the ultimate ambiance. I enjoyed the vegan Hot Chocolate Experience on the balcony with geraniums, overlooking the Plaza de San Francisco. Awwww!
Where to Stay in Quito
As aforementioned, I chose The Secret Garden Hostal for its rooftop restaurant/bar and stellar views. Even more, this hostel has its own Travel Agency with tours going every day for reasonable prices. I enjoyed their free, daily walking tour of Centro Historico. They also provide roundtrip shuttle services for just $10 to the Mitad del Mundo/Intian Solar Museum. I spent just $50 for a day trip going to the Otavalo Market, Cotacachi National Park, lunch and equator location in Cayambe.
The Secret Garden also has a hostel at Cotapaxi with 1 to 3-day tours at the volcano. I talked with others that had a fantastic time there at a reasonable cost. In addition, they also provide day trips to Mindo Cloud Forest and Quilatoa Volcano. They also provide package tours to the Galapagos Islands.
The Secret Garden is a colorful hostel with basic amenities. But the rooftop view and travel services make everything worth it. I stayed in a private room and bath for just $50/night. Also, The Secret Garden has a Spanish Language School, so you can sign up for classed while staying there.
Enjoy Quito!
Quito, Ecuador is an incredible city with lots of historic sites and natural beauty. If you are short on time, conveniently exploring the Centro Historico provides plenty of culture to explore. If your travels bring you to Quito, please share any tips below in the comments.
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