High in the Andes, Ecuador’s capital, Quito, unfurls in a long north–south ribbon, more than 35km top to bottom and just 5km wide. To the west, the city is dramatically hemmed in by the steep green walls of Volcán Pichincha, the benign-looking volcano which periodically sends clouds of ash billowing into the sky and over the streets. Eastwards, Quito abruptly drops away to a wide valley known as the Valle de los Chillos, marking the beginning of the descent towards the Amazon basin. It’s a superb setting, but apart from in July and August it can be bone-chillingly cold, with its much-vaunted “spring-like climate” all too often giving way to grey, washed-out skies that somewhat undermine the beauty of the surroundings.
Central Quito divides into two distinct parts. The compact old town, known as the centro histórico, is the city’s undisputed highlight, a jumble of narrow streets and wide, cobbled plazas lined with churches, monasteries, mansions and colourful balconied houses. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the old town contains some of the most beautiful Spanish Colonial architecture on the continent and the frenetic crowds of indígenas and mestizos that throng its streets give it a tremendous energy. A reputation for poverty and crime has traditionally discouraged tourists from actually staying here, but a sustained regeneration effort is turning it into a genuine alternative to the neighbouring, bland and modern new town, whose concentration of banks, shops, bars, hotels, restaurants, tour operators and internet cafés is convenient, if a little characterless.
As a major crossroads with 1.8 million residents, Quito is a busy transit hub to which travellers usually return between forays to the jungle, the coast, the Galápagos Islands and the northern and southern sierra. Featuring dozens of language schools, it’s also a good place to learn Spanish, and many visitors spend several weeks or longer here mastering their castellano. It’s an easy city to spend time in, even with the inevitable pollution and screeching horns, but when you fancy a break there’s plenty nearby to keep you occupied.
The most popular day-trip is to the Mitad del Mundo(Middle of the World) on the equator, marked by a massive monument and several museums, a trip often combined with a visit to the giant volcanic crater of Pululahua. Other attractions in the area include the market at Sangolquí, Eduardo Kingman’s house in nearby San Rafaeland the Pasochoa forest reserve half an hour to the south, one of many protected areas nearby offering great birdwatching and hiking. Lesser-known attractions can be found northeast of Quito, including the religious sanctuary of El Quinche, the little town of Calderón, where curious dough figurines are made, and the zoo at Guayllabamba, featuring a host of native species.
Quito’s altitude (2800m) can leave you feeling breathless and woozy when you first arrive – most visitors adjust in a couple of days, often by resting, drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcohol.
Top image © Ecuadorpostales/Shutterstock
Tailor-made travel itineraries for Ecuador, created by local experts

21 days / from11900 USD
Ecuador's Best in 3 Weeks
A journey to the heart of Ecuador: discover the Andean highlands, go on a deep dive in the Amazon jungle, explore the colonial cities on the Pacific Coast and end your trip with the incredibly diverse Galapagos Islands. This trip packs all into one, the adventure of a lifetime!
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10 days / from5919 USD
Unique Lodges of Ecuador
Prepare yourself for the epitome of adventure and prestige with not one but two Unique Lodges in Ecuador into the lush and captivating nearby cloud forest to discover Mashpi Lodge. After that, prepare yourself for the wonders at your doorstep at the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel.
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14 days / from6565 USD
Best of Peru & Galapagos Islands
Split your South America trip into two fascinating countries: Peru with Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, as well as ocean-facing capital Lima. Afterwards, proceed to the Galapagos Islands. You will stay on 3 different islands and explore many more.
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8 days / from4350 USD
Pristine rainforest - Ecuador's Amazon
Start in Ecuador's capital Quito with nearby Cotopaxi volcano. Afterwards proceed to your adventure in the Amazon - a luxurious Lodge awaits with plenty of excursions from river canoes, bird watching, rainforest hikes and more.
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10 days / from7450 USD
Mesmerizing Ecuador - Amazon & Galapagos
Despite its small size, Ecuador packs an incredible variety of wildlife, nature and culture. On this trip, you will explore the Amazon on a river cruise, getting close to not just the wildlife but also the native cultures. Afterwards, fly to the Galapagos for a unique wildlife adventure.
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14 days / from13500 USD
Luxury Andes and Galapagos
Combine Ecuador's mainland, visiting Cotopaxi volcano, the fascinating city of Quito, the market in Otavalo, hot springs in Papallacta and more, with the unique wildlife and nature of the Galapagos. A once in a lifetime trip with extraordinary hotels and lodges awaits.
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11 days / from9192 USD
Best Machu Picchu and Galapagos Islands Tour Package
Explore a trio of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in this Machu Picchu and Galapagos tour package! Your journey begins in Quito, home to the Middle of the World. Afterward, fly on over to the Galapagos Islands the best biodiversity hotspot and following with the sublime Machu Picchu in Peru.
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10 days / from2900 USD
Galapagos Special - 3 islands in 10 days
The Galapagos islands in Ecuador are a truly special place. On this trip, you will get to stay on 3 different islands and explore several more on boat tours. Start and end point of your journey is the UNESCO World Heritage Site and capital of Ecuador - Quito.
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18 days / from5875 USD
On Top of the World & Deep Into the Sea
Calling all adventurers - hiking volcanoes? Meeting indigenous tribes in the Amazon? Diving in the magnificent Galapagos islands? This trip truly has it all. Enjoy a fast-paced trip including Quito, Mindo, Cotopaxi, Coyambe, Otavalo, Yasuni Reserve in the Amazon, as well as the Galapagos.
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17 days / from16500 USD
Luxury Galapagos Cruise & Mainland Highlights
Seven nights on a luxurious super yacht in the Galapagos - explore the natural wonders of this island paradise in style. Afterwards, fly to the mainland and discover Ecuador from Guayaquil to Quito. Volcanoes, waterfalls, markets, and much more are to be discovered.
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12 days / from3800 USD
Ecuador Highlights - Amazon & Galapagos
Three dream destinations in Ecuador await: discover the colonial city of Quito and Otavalo before heading to the Amazon. Guided boat tours will explain flora, fauna and the indigenous customs to you. Afterwards, explore the fascinating Galapagos islands.
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10 days / from7018 USD
Galapagos Cruise and Scuba Diving Adventure
The Galapagos Islands rank as one of the world’s top dive sites, famous for its incredible underwater wonders, and huge quantities of marine life. This package offers a full-day SCUBA diving tour for guests that wish to experience the impressive diving in Galapagos, all in a safe and fun environment
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9 days / from3990 USD
Diving Adventure in the Galapagos
The Galapagos islands are one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world. This includes the stunning marine wildlife. Explore it yourself on this trip, including several dives. If you're a beginner - no worries, a course can also be quoted. For advanced divers, different spots can be chosen.
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10 days / from5850 USD
The Andean Highway & the Magical Galapagos
Experience the best of Ecuador with our expertly crafted itinerary. Explore the ancient and modern aspects of Quito's colonial city. Discover hidden cultural gems nestled between the rocky peaks of the Andes. Finally, marvel at the breathtaking natural beauty of the Galapagos aboard the Archipel I.
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10 days / from7795 USD
The Best of the Mashpi Rainforest and Galapagos
Begin this journey in one of the first cities to be given the title of UNESCO World Heritage Site – Quito, Ecuador! Afterward, just a few hours away, you’ll head down into the lush cloud forests that surround Quito to experience Mashpi Lodge. You’ll finish this journey with the the Galapagos Islands
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10 days / from2950 USD
The Ecuadorian Highlands & Amazon Jungle
Experience the best of Ecuador with our expertly crafted itinerary. Visit Quito's colonial center, hike around stunning lagoons, and explore the natural beauty of Cotopaxi National Park. End your trip with a cultural immersion program in Napo.
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Jacqueline Veltman
The perfect experience! We really had the best possible experience with our local guide Tamer in Ecuador. He put together a brilliant programme taking acc...
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