Quito: A Journey Through Ecuador’s Capital

Quito, the vibrant capital of Ecuador, stretches long and narrow amidst a stunning backdrop of volcanoes. This city, located right at the equator, offers far more than just a geographical curiosity. At an altitude of 2,850 meters, it is the highest capital city in the world (with La Paz in Bolivia technically being higher but not officially the capital). Before venturing further into Ecuador or heading to the famous Galapagos Islands as I did, spending a few days in Quito is a must. Here’s a detailed guide to help you explore this city.

How to get to Quito

Arrival by plane

Quito’s international airport, Mariscal Sucre, is situated just outside the city. You can easily book an airport transfer through your accommodation or grab an Uber upon arrival.

Arrival by Road

Quito is well-connected to other major locations in Ecuador, such as Guayaquil, Baños, and Cotopaxi. For those arriving from Peru, the reliable Cruz del Sur buses are a good option to cross the border. Plan to make some stops along the way to appreciate more than just the capital. You can book your tickets through 12GO.

From Colombia, the journey is a bit more complex but doable. The Rumichaca border crossing is the most popular for international travelers. From Ipiales, take a collectivo to the border, then another to the Tulcan bus terminal in Ecuador. Buses to Quito from Tulcan are readily available and the entire journey from Cali costs less than $25. Always check current border crossing procedures online or with your accommodation.

Please not that border change procedures can change, so always check the actual procedures through the internet or through your accommodation.

What to do in Quito

Free Walking Tour

A free walking tour is a fantastic way to explore Quito’s old town, filled with beautiful architecture, colonial squares, churches, and colorful houses. Several companies offer these tours; if you stay at the Community Hostel, one is conveniently available next door. Remember to tip the guide, with $5-$20 being a common amount.

If you prefer to wander on your own, make sure to visit Plaza Grande, the Presidential Palace, Plaza San Francisco, and La Ronda.

Climb the Basilica del Voto Nacional

Among Quito’s numerous churches, the Basilica del Voto Nacional stands out. Located just outside the old town, you can climb up and walk under its roof to enjoy phenomenal views from the top. Even if you don’t reach the highest points, it’s worth a visit.

Views from the Virgin of El Panecillo

The Virgin of El Panecillo, a 41-meter-tall aluminum statue of the Virgin Mary, is visible from nearly anywhere in Quito. The hill offers stunning views of the city, but the surrounding area isn’t the safest, so take a taxi and have the driver wait for you while you enjoy the views.

Take the TelefériQo to 4000 meters

After acclimatizing to Quito’s altitude, take the TelefériQo cable car to 4,000 meters. The 20-minute ride offers breathtaking views and short hikes around the area. This is also a good test to see if you’re ready for higher altitude hikes like Cotopaxi. Remember to listen to your body and descend if you feel unwell. Tickets cost $8.50 (2023), and it’s best to go early as weather changes quickly in the afternoon.

Visiting the equator

Visiting the equator is an enjoyable and unique activity while in Quito. Although it’s not an essential attraction, it makes for a fun day out. You can either join a day tour or take a bus on your own to explore Museo Solar Intinan and Ciudad Mitad del Mundo. Due to some unrest during my visit, I opted for a day tour.

The Museo Solar Intinan, located just 0.02 degrees off the equator, offers fascinating photo opportunities and interactive experiments. You can balance an egg on a nail and observe the unique effects of the equator on water movement. It’s an engaging experience, especially for kids.

On the other hand, Mitad del Mundo is a more tourist-oriented site, primarily designed for taking photos to mark your visit to the equator. Personally, I wouldn’t go back, but since it’s near Museo Solar Intinan, it’s worth a quick stop. You can reach these attractions by taking a direct bus from the Ofelia bus station or a taxi, which should cost around $20 one-way.

Otavalo Market

A popular day trip from Quito is the Otavalo Market, one of the most important markets in the Andes. The traditional market day is Saturday, offering a vibrant array of traditional clothes and colorful products. You can join an organized tour or take a bus from Terminal Norte Terrestre de Carcelén for about $2.50. The journey takes around 3 hours.

Where to eat in Quito

The Ecuadorian cuisine might not have the global fame of its Peruvian neighbor, but Quito boasts an array of delightful dining options that shouldn’t be missed. Here are some of our favorite spots:

• Bandido Brewing: Situated right across from the Community Hostel, Bandido Brewing is a cozy pub known for its craft beers and mouth-watering food. Their burgers, in particular, are a hit and make this place well worth a visit for both its drinks and atmosphere.
• Casa Gangotena: For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, Casa Gangotena offers a taste of Ecuadorian cuisine with a modern twist. Here, you can savor a variety of dishes, including ceviche, seafood, meats, and vegetarian options, all prepared with locally sourced ingredients. The local yucca is a standout.
• Indian Cuisine: Surprisingly, Quito offers some excellent Indian food. Two standout restaurants are Sher E Punjab Rincon de la India and Royal India. Both serve up authentic and flavorful curries that will satisfy any cravings for Indian cuisine.

Where to stay in Quito

Staying around the old town is ideal for safety and convenience. Here are some great accommodation options:

Community Hostel and The Secret Garden are both hostels with a social atmosphere, good food, and helpful staff. They have dorms starting at $15 and double rooms starting at $30.

Rincón Familiar Hostel Boutique is located just 100 meters from Plaza Grande, this boutique hostel offers charming rooms and friendly staff. Double rooms with a shared bathroom start at $90, while ensuite rooms start at $100.

Hotel La Basílica Quito is a mid-range option in a colonial-style building near the Basilica, Hotel La Basílica offers ensuite rooms starting at $130 a night.

Quito is a city of contrasts and beauty, offering rich cultural experiences, stunning views, and a warm welcome to its visitors. Enjoy your stay in the capital of Ecuador before continuing your adventures in this incredible country.