Quito
Ecuador
"Colonial Treasures at the Middle of the World"
Quito sits at about 9,350 feet in a valley ringed by volcanoes. Its UNESCO-listed historic center is packed with gilded churches like La Compañía, grand plazas, and the Gothic Basílica del Voto Nacional, whose towers visitors can climb. The TelefériQo cable car rises to over 12,000 feet for sweeping views, and the Mitad del Mundo monument marks the equator just north of town. Quito is also the main gateway for Galápagos cruises and Otavalo or Cotopaxi day trips.
Historic Center & Plaza Grande, La Compañía Church, Basílica del Voto Nacional, El Panecillo, TelefériQo, Mitad del Mundo, Otavalo market, Cotopaxi National Park
June–September (dry season)
Take it slow the first day for altitude; use registered taxis or apps; carry a light rain jacket
Essential pre/post stop for Galápagos cruises. Sell 2–3 nights to acclimatize and enjoy the old town.
3–4 days
$60–$150
📍 Quito's old town and Basílica del Voto Nacional seen from El Panecillo