Welcome to El Ciudad del Mitad del Mundo – The City in the Centre of The World! Only here can you cross both sides of the equator and practice your balance whilst feeling gravity’s pull from both halves of the Earth.
Quito is the capital of Ecuador, which means it features many of the main attractions in Western South America. It also boasts the title of being the world’s very first UNESCO World Heritage City!
The high contrast capital will lead you from soaring volcanoes to colonial Baroque architecture in seconds.
Claiming one of the world’s highest cable cars, the tallest winged statue of the Virgin Mary and the best-preserved historic city in all of South America. These are the best things to do in Quito, the capital of Ecuador…
Quilotoa Crater
One of the most popular things to do in the capital is to visit the giant crater, infamous for its picture-perfect sapphire lake.
Quilotoa Crater, also known as Massive Crater, is a volcano lying on the Quilotoa Loop hiking trail. While the extended 3-5 day circuit is an optional addition, seeing the volcano is an absolute must for anyone visiting Quito.
Upon reaching the peak, indulge yourself in a spectacular view of the city, then head inwards to cast your gaze over the beauty of Quilotoa and its lake.
For closer inspection, the lake is best enjoyed during a hike down into the pit. Just be prepared to pay for it on the way back up, as the climb is a challenge.
Boating is allowed and kayaking in the lake is a great way to enjoy its bright hue close up. Though swimming in the volcanic lake is not recommended due to its high acidity and icy temperatures.
Ciudad Mitad del Mundo
By far the most popular attraction in Quito is the notorious tribute to the equator.
Where else can you say you’ve straddled both sides of the equator? With so much to see, this is the most visited monument in the whole of Ecuador.
Test out gravitational experiments like balancing an egg on a nail or trying to walk along the equator line and feel the earth’s pull. There are many monuments to see, including the Trapezoid, which you can climb for exceptional views of the area.
There is a whole village to explore, including a small museum not to be overlooked. Inside you can learn all about the indigenous culture including the way they live their lives and the history of the different tribes. Artefacts include Amazon and Highland cooking equipment, tools and musical instruments.
Though not the real equator, this is a wonderful celebration of it. If you head to the nearby Museo de Sitio Intiñan, you can see the point that actually marks the centre of the Earth!
Museo Templo del Sol Pintor Ortega Maila
Explore the indigenous culture at the Museo Templo del Sol Pintor Ortega Maila. Its long name reflects its extensive collection of artwork and architecture created by the local legend.
Worth seeing for the building itself, you can do an hour-long tour of the grounds to learn authentically about the Andean culture. Discover the traditional methods of creating art and architecture through the work of the successful artist, Maila.
It only costs a little to get inside the museum and entry includes a traditional aroma therapy session and a cleansing cup of coca tea.
Quito Teleferico
For some of the top views in Quito, head up into the Andes on one of the highest cable cars in the world.
The Quito gondola soars above the city centre at more than 4000 metres in the air. Climb right up from the city centre into high in the mountains to observe the stark contrast between the city and its surroundings.
The 18-minute ride will glide you up the cliff face of Volcan Pichincha, where you can watch as the buildings grow smaller and smaller. On clear days you can even catch the Cotopaxi Volcano.
Arrival at the peak grants access to the lookout point where you can bide your time taking in some of the best views in the capital. Face your fears on the free adventure swing, that leaves your feet dangling out high above the city centre. This is fuel for your socials!
There’s also an optional 4-hour advanced hike with a rock scramble, recommended for experienced climbers. You can do as little or as much as you desire and it is more than worth it for the views at the top. Check out the mountaintop churches and the local llamas that live up there.
Teleferico is open daily from 9 am to 7 pm.
Quito Old Town
Grab a bite to eat in the stunning colonial Old Town. There is a vast selection of adorable cafés and terrace restaurants boasting a delicious cup of locally sourced coffee.
The architectural gem is worth visiting since, like Venice, this is a UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site and in fact the first in the world to claim the title. For anyone interested in architecture, you won’t find colonial heritage better than this.
Both visitors and locals enjoy exploring the baroque buildings and the Plaza Grande is a phenomenal place to start or end your visit.
Plaza Grande
The main square, aka Plaza Grande, is a fantastic place to watch the locals going about their day-to-day. Get yourself some street pinchos from one of the traditional vendors in the heart of Quito Old Town.
You may hear it referred to as ‘Independence Square’ referencing the convent of San Agustin, where Ecuador’s Independence Act was signed at the start of the 1800s.
You can visit the 17th-century spot where the milestone took place and see the impressive collection of artwork from painter Miguel de Santiago. A tour of the building costs only $2.
Call in the City Museum to learn the history of the area and, if you’re there on a Monday, swing by the changing of the guard’s ceremony for a cultural exhibit. Spot the president watching from his balcony. The festivity takes place weekly at 11 am.
There will be many opportunities to treat yourself to a traditional shoe shining and revel in a live street performance.
Calle de La Ronda
Deeper into the historic centre is one of the best-preserved colonial neighbourhoods known to man. As the home of the creatives of the past, the cobbled streets sing of the culture they produced.
This impeccably preserved section of Quito’s history is packed with galleries, artisan stores and eateries that keep the heritage living on today.
Had to the Casa de Art Museum for an unloading of the area’s past and its countless claims to fame.
Pick yourself up a selection of uniquely authentic bits for your home, making it a refreshing alternative to the basic souvenir shops. Head to the back alleys for an array of boutiques that will leave you wanting to do nothing but window shop all day long.
In the mornings you can find yourself a quiet bite to eat at one of the coffee shops and savour some well-deserved you-time.
Basilica del Voto Nacional
The neo-gothic Basilica del Voto Nacional will give you some sightly 360-degree views of the city from its iconic towers.
If you’re brave enough, taking the outdoor staircase on the way up to the top can give you some pretty awesome views of the grounds below (not to mention an adrenaline rush). But fear not if heights aren’t your deal – a lift ride can also get you there.
Have a peek at the gargoyles which resemble native species from Ecuador. The quirky switch from orthodox gremlins to armadillos is worth a glance!
Virgen de El Panecillo
Quito is known for its impressive statue of the Virgin Mary which can be seen almost everywhere in the city centre. This is worth a visit for several reasons and is one of the most popular attractions in all of the capital.
Perched on top of the El Panecillo volcano is the tallest aluminium statue in the world, which is also the tallest winged statue of the Virgen on Earth. Come here for a bewildering view of the city and volcanoes.
Best visited early morning or late evening when it gets lit up, the El Panecillo statue is the glimmering spectacle everyone must see.
Parque La Carolina
The largest park in Quito is La Carolina and its impressive assortment of activities will knock you off your feet.
Everything from tennis courts to basketball pitches. Child-friendly playgrounds to luscious poolside botanical gardens. Food and drinks vendors for refreshments, pedal boats for play.
Giant Parque La Carolina in the city centre business district makes a thrilling day out for everyone.
Church of La Campañía
Quito is known to have many churches open for your exploration. Though if you’re tight on time and only have room for one, make it La Campañía de Jesús and you will be most definitely satisfied!
Its glorious exterior looms over the street in central Quito, though it is most well known for its tremendous carvings of gilded arches, ceilings and marble floors. It is a sight for sore eyes, every inch of its interior covered in gold leaf.
Anyone who knows anything about Baroque architecture will recognise the bold staple of the Colonial period in Quito.
