A stay in Quito: 3 must-do things to see!
Ecuador's capital is an essential stop for travelers journeying through this small South American country nestled between the Pacific, Colombia, and Peru.
Ecuador's capital is an essential stop for travelers journeying through this small South American country nestled between the Pacific, Colombia, and Peru. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978, Quito brims with splendid architectural buildings and is home to South America's largest historic center. Its global popularity is, somewhat paradoxically, modest, and massive tourist crowds are generally sparse. A compelling reason to spend a few days here before exploring the rest of the country.
The city center is a must-visit when you take the time to discover Quito, though other surprises await you. Here are some varied insights to help you choose the points of interest that suit you best.
The Basilica of the National Vow
Situated in the heart of this tourism goldmine that is Quito's historic center, the Basilica of the National Vow is one of the capital's modern emblems. The present-day city was founded in 1534 by Spanish conquistador Sebastián de Benalcázar, who named it Quito in honor of the indigenous people inhabiting the area upon his arrival: the Quitus. From then on, the city transformed and became the stage for numerous masterpieces of colonial architecture, which earned it UNESCO World Heritage status in 1978.
The Church of the National Vow itself rose in 1893 in the city center, quite late compared to other civic monuments. It is the largest neo-Gothic basilica in all of the Americas! Climbing it will be no easy feat, but the reward at the summit is worth the effort. You ascend to its top via a rather steep staircase and can then admire an unobstructed view of Quito and its surrounding mountains, with the charming Panecillo Virgin hill in sight.
The Mitad del Mundo
"The middle of the world". Ecuador, which takes its name from the famous imaginary line corresponding to the 0 latitude and which separates the northern and southern hemispheres, is the only country to have materialized it. You can admire the official monument and snap a few photos while crossing this boundary, then head to the nearby Intiñan museum.
Here you can participate in scientific experiments, or psychological ones? Either way, observe water pour without swirling, or feel the sensation of crossing from one side of the Equator to the other—it's fascinating!
The TelefériQo
A cable car awaits you in downtown Quito! It takes you from 3,000 to 4,000 meters altitude in just 8 minutes. You arrive at the summit on the eastern flank of the Pichincha volcano. The temperature drops considerably when you exit the cabin, so remember to bring layers.
You can take a scenic hike and admire the view of the capital from the heights. Don't hesitate to bring a picnic with you—it's a reinvigorating activity that lets you escape the urban landscape of Quito and its 3 million inhabitants for a while.
Frequently asked questions
Plan to spend about 1 to 1.5 hours visiting the Basilica of the National Vow, including the climb to the top. The panoramic view of Quito from the towers is well worth the effort of the steep staircase.
The Mitad del Mundo is located about 22 km north of Quito. You can reach it by taxi, bus from Quito's northern terminal, or on an organized tour. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on traffic.
The TelefériQo in Quito offers a round-trip journey at an affordable rate (check current fares on the official website, as they may change). It's recommended to go early in the morning to enjoy clear skies and avoid high-altitude clouds.
Quito is generally safe for tourists, especially in the historic center and tourist neighborhoods. However, it is advisable to remain vigilant, avoid going out alone at night in certain areas, and refrain from displaying valuable items or cameras ostentatiously.
The best time to visit Quito is during the dry season, from June to September, when temperatures are pleasant and rainfall is minimal. The city enjoys a temperate climate year-round thanks to its altitude of approximately 2,850 meters.
