Viaja a Sudamérica: 6 cosas que puedes hacer en la capital de Ecuador, Quito

Quito is one of Latin Americas most fascinating capitals. The capital of Ecuador is located in the northern part of the country at 2,850 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest capitals in the world. On your first visit, the altitude can feel overwhelming. But if you give yourself 2–3 days to adjust, unforgettable experiences await, with stunning views, colorful streets, and an authentic atmosphere you can only find in Quito.

This travel guide is tailored for first-time visitors to Quito. Here, youll find 7 unmissable sights that give you the best impression of the citys culture, history, and charm. Want to make the trip easy? Book your tourist transport with us right here! 

Centro Histórico de Quito 

Start your day in Quitos historic center – the heart of the city and a must-see for every visitor. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the best-preserved colonial city centers in South America. Youll find beautiful buildings, colorful streets, and a unique mix of churches, museums, and small plazas.

A natural focal point is Plaza Grande with the Presidential Palace. Take your time to explore the narrow cobblestone streets, which hide cozy cafés, local shops, and restaurants, giving an authentic glimpse into Quitos daily life. The atmosphere is lively, but not hectic – a perfect introduction to the city.

Tips:

·       Visit in the morning, when the streets are calmer.

·       Stop by Centro Comercial Palacio Arzobispal for authentic, delicious, and inexpensive empanadas

·       Take the metro to San Francisco station to arrive directly in the heart of the historic center.

La Basílica del Voto Nacional 

In the heart of Centro Histórico stands one of Quitos most iconic landmarks: the impressive La Basílica del Voto Nacional. This massive church is the largest neo-Gothic cathedral in Latin America and towers majestically over the district – like a European cathedral, but with a local twist. Look out for the special gargoyles, which instead of dragons or monsters are shaped like Ecuadorian animals such as iguanas and turtles.

Inside, admire the colorful stained-glass windows, and if you dare, climb the tall towers. From there, enjoy one of the best panoramic views over Quito, with both the historic center and the surrounding volcanoes in sight.

Tips:

·       Visit in the morning or early afternoon for the best light 

·       Entry costs around $4 USD for adults

·       Wear comfortable shoes – the stairs to the top are steep

·       A camera is a must

El Panecillo 

Another iconic landmark in Quito is El Panecillo, a hill in the middle of the city crowned by the enormous Virgin of Quito statue. The 41-meter-high aluminum statue depicts the Virgin Mary with wings and is visible from almost all parts of the city.

From the top of El Panecillo, youll enjoy one of the most spectacular panoramic views of Quito. To the north, you see Centro Histórico with its churches and plazas, and to the south, the modern neighborhoods spread out. Here you truly get a sense of the citys size.

Tips:

·       Take a taxi or bus up – walking is not recommended for safety

·       Visit just before sunset for magical colors over the city

·       There is a small entry fee if you want to go inside the statue, the view from the hill is free

·       Bring sunglasses and water – the sun is strong at 3,016 meters, at the top of the hill

Mitad del Mundo 

One of Ecuadors most famous attractions is Mitad del Mundo, where you can stand with one foot in the northern hemisphere and the other in the southern. A large monument marks the equator line, and the area is full of small museums, shops, and restaurants.

Although the exact geographic equator lies a few hundred meters away, its still a fun and iconic experience for anyone visiting Quito.

 Tips:

·       Take a bus or taxi – its about 45 minutes from the city center

·       Combine your visit with the Intiñan Museum, where you can try fun equator experiments (and see the exact equator line)

TelefériQo 

To see Quito from above, a ride on the TelefériQo cable car is a must. The cable car takes you from the city up to around 4,000 meters on Pichincha volcano, offering spectacular views. At the top, you can enjoy hiking trails, swings, or horseback riding while taking in the panorama of the Andes.

Its one of the best places to experience how dramatically Quito is situated in the mountains.

Tips:

·       Go early in the morning for clear weather

·       Bring a warm jacket – the temperature drops quickly at high altitude

·       Entry costs $9 USD for adults

·       Allocate 2–3 hours for the ride, longer if you want to hike

Parque La Carolina & Jardín Botánico de Quito 

In the center of Quito, the green oasis Parque La Carolina is popular with both locals and tourists. Here, you can find sports fields, playgrounds, street performers, and small ponds – perfect for a break from the busy city streets.

Inside the park is also the Botanical Garden of Quito, where you can experience Ecuadors unique biodiversity with bonsai plants, cacti, and tropical flora. A combined visit to the park and botanical garden offers both nature, relaxation, and beautiful photo opportunities.

Tips:

·       Visit on weekends for a lively atmosphere

·       Set aside 1–2 hours to explore both the park and botanical garden

·       Bring a camera for the colorful flowers

·       Pack snacks or a picnic for a budget-friendly lunch 

Take your time exploring Quito – the city is much more than a stopover and offers experiences you can only find here. Want to make your trip easy and unforgettable? Book your Quito-tour with us today and let us guide you though the citys best experiences

Guía de viaje de Quito: vea la capital de Ecuador desde El Panecillo hasta la Mitad del Mundo, plazas históricas y exuberantes parques: 7 experiencias inolvidables.