Ecuador’s high altitude capital sits closer to the equator than almost any other city, its colonial old town ringed by active volcanoes.
Why Visit Quito
Quito’s historic center, the first UNESCO World Heritage site ever designated in 1978, is one of the largest and best preserved colonial old towns in the Americas, packed with ornate churches like La Compania de Jesus. Sitting at nearly 2,850 meters above sea level in the Andes, the city offers a genuinely equatorial climate despite its high altitude, and a monument marking the actual equator line lies just outside the city. As the gateway to the Galapagos Islands and Ecuador’s Avenue of the Volcanoes, Quito serves as an essential stop for travelers exploring the country.
Top Experiences
- Historic Center of Quito: the first UNESCO World Heritage site, a vast colonial old town of churches and plazas.
- La Compania de Jesus: a Jesuit church covered almost entirely in gold leaf, considered one of the most ornate in South America.
- Mitad del Mundo: a monument marking the equator line, just outside the city.
- TelefeQuito Cable Car: a cable car climbing to nearly 4,000 meters on the slopes of Pichincha volcano.
- Basilica del Voto Nacional: a Gothic basilica with towers open for climbing, offering views over the old town.
Book Quito Tours & Activities
Explore Quito’s colonial old town, stand on the equator, or ride the cable car up Pichincha volcano with guided tours of the city.
Quito Old Town Free walking tour English small group Cacao Taste!
Otavalo Unveiled: A Day Journey Through Time and Tradition!
Quito Private Tour: Old Town, Half the World and Cable Car
Practical Tips
- Quito’s high altitude means visitors should take it easy for the first day or two to acclimatize.
- The Mitad del Mundo monument is a popular half day trip just outside the city center.
- Quito is the most common gateway for flights to the Galapagos Islands.
- Layer clothing, as temperatures can swing significantly between sun and shade at this altitude.
FAQ
Why was Quito the first UNESCO World Heritage site?
In 1978, Quito’s exceptionally well preserved colonial historic center was among the very first sites designated by UNESCO, recognizing its significance as one of the best preserved colonial cities in the Americas.
Is Quito a good base for visiting the Galapagos?
Yes, Quito is the primary gateway airport for flights to the Galapagos Islands, along with Guayaquil.
Final Thoughts
Quito’s colonial architecture and equatorial location make it a worthwhile stop in its own right, beyond simply serving as the gateway to the Galapagos Islands.
Write Your Review
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!