Quito

Quito is the capital city of Ecuador, located in the Andes mountains in the northern part of the country. It is situated at an altitude of 2,850 meters (9,350 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest capital cities in the world.

With a population of over 2.7 million people, Quito is the second most populous city in Ecuador, after Guayaquil. It is a cultural, political, and economic center of the country, and it is also one of the oldest and most well-preserved colonial cities in Latin America.

Quito's historic center, known as "Old Town" or "La Ciudad Vieja," is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts stunning colonial architecture, including churches, museums, and plazas. Some of the must-visit attractions in Quito include the Basílica del Voto Nacional, the Plaza Grande, the Monastery of San Francisco, and the Museum of the City.

Quito also has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many restaurants, bars, and clubs to choose from. Additionally, the city is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, including the Cotopaxi National Park and the Mindo Cloud Forest, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

In summary, Quito is a city of contrasts, with a mix of ancient and modern, urban and natural, and indigenous and colonial influences that make it a fascinating and unique destination to visit.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Quito is during the dry season, which runs from June to September. During this time, the weather is sunny and pleasant, with clear skies and low humidity. The average temperature during the day ranges from 18 to 22 degrees Celsius (64 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit), and the nights can be chilly, with temperatures dropping to around 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit).

Another good time to visit Quito is during the shoulder season, which runs from October to November and from April to May. During these months, the weather is still relatively dry, and there are fewer tourists than during the peak season. However, it is worth noting that there may be occasional rain showers during these months, so it is important to bring appropriate clothing and footwear.

The rainy season in Quito runs from December to March, and although the temperatures are still mild, the city can experience heavy rain and occasional thunderstorms. This may limit some outdoor activities, but it can also be a good time to visit if you want to experience the city's cultural and indoor attractions.

However, the best time to visit Quito depends on your preferences and travel plans. If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy sunny weather, then the dry season is the best time to go. However, if you don't mind occasional rain and want to save on travel costs, then the shoulder season may be a good option.

Best things to see and do

There are plenty of things to see and do in Quito, but here are some of the top attractions and activities:

Explore the Historic Center 

Quito's Historic Center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to some of the best-preserved colonial architecture in Latin America. Be sure to visit the Plaza Grande, the Monastery of San Francisco, the Basilica del Voto Nacional, and the Presidential Palace.

Take a ride on the TelefériQo

The TelefériQo is a cable car that takes you up to the top of Pichincha Volcano, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Quito and the surrounding mountains. You can also hike around the volcano's trails or enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants on the summit.

Visit the Mitad del Mundo

The Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World) is a monument that marks the equator line, which passes through Ecuador. Here, you can straddle the equator and take part in various experiments that demonstrate the unique properties of the equator line.

Learn about Ecuadorian culture

Quito has many museums and cultural centers that showcase the country's rich history and culture. Be sure to visit the Museum of the City, the Casa del Alabado Museum, and the Guayasamín Museum.

Explore the markets

Quito has several markets where you can buy traditional handicrafts, textiles, and food. The Otavalo Market is one of the largest and most popular, but you can also visit the Mercado Central, the Plaza de San Francisco, and the La Mariscal Craft Market.

Taste the local cuisine

Ecuadorian cuisine is known for its use of fresh ingredients and unique flavors. Be sure to try some of the local dishes, such as ceviche, empanadas, llapingachos, and locro de papas. You can find these dishes at restaurants throughout the city.

Enjoy the nightlife

Quito has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. Be sure to check out the La Ronda neighborhood, which is known for its nightlife and traditional music and dance performances.

These are just a few of the many things to see and do in Quito. The city has something for everyone, whether you're interested in history, culture, nature, or nightlife.

Where to shop

Quito has a variety of shopping options, from traditional markets to modern shopping malls. Here are some of the best places to shop in Quito:

Otavalo Market: The Otavalo Market is one of the largest and most famous markets in South America. It is located about two hours north of Quito and features a variety of handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs from around Ecuador.

La Mariscal Craft Market: The La Mariscal Craft Market is located in the La Mariscal neighborhood and features a variety of handicrafts, jewelry, textiles, and artwork from local artisans.

Mercado Central: The Mercado Central is a large indoor market located in the heart of Quito. It features a variety of stalls selling fresh produce, meat, fish, and other food items, as well as souvenirs and handicrafts.

Quicentro Shopping: Quicentro Shopping is one of the largest shopping malls in Quito, featuring a variety of international and local brands, as well as restaurants, a cinema, and other entertainment options.

Mall El Jardín: Mall El Jardín is another popular shopping mall in Quito, featuring a variety of clothing stores, electronics stores, and restaurants.

Centro Comercial Inaquito: Centro Comercial Iñaquito is a large shopping center located in the northern part of Quito. It features a variety of stores selling clothing, electronics, and other goods, as well as restaurants and a cinema.

Art Galleries: Quito has a variety of art galleries that sell traditional and modern artwork from local artists. Some popular galleries include the Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana and the Galería de Arte Nacional.

These are just a few of the many shopping options in Quito. Whether you're looking for traditional handicrafts or modern fashion, Quito has something to offer.

Where to stay

Quito has a variety of neighborhoods and accommodations to choose from, depending on your preferences and budget. Here are some popular options:

Historic Center: If you're interested in history and culture, staying in Quito's Historic Center can be a great option. This area is home to many of Quito's most famous landmarks and attractions, as well as a variety of hotels and hostels. The area can be quite busy during the day, but tends to quiet down at night.

La Mariscal: La Mariscal is a popular neighborhood for tourists, as it is home to many bars, restaurants, and hostels. This area can be lively at night, so it's a good option if you're looking for nightlife. La Mariscal is also centrally located, making it easy to explore other parts of Quito.

La Floresta: La Floresta is a trendy neighborhood with a bohemian vibe, known for its street art, cafes, and boutique shops. It's a quieter area than La Mariscal, but still offers a variety of restaurants and bars. This area is a good option if you're looking for a more relaxed atmosphere.

Mitad del Mundo: If you're interested in visiting the Mitad del Mundo and the surrounding attractions, staying in the nearby town of San Antonio de Pichincha can be a good option. This area offers a variety of accommodations, from hostels to luxury resorts.

Northern Quito: The northern part of Quito is a quieter area, with fewer tourists and a more residential feel. This area is a good option if you're looking for a more peaceful atmosphere, and it offers a variety of accommodations, from budget hotels to luxury resorts.

These are just a few of the many options for accommodations in Quito. It's important to do your research and choose an area and accommodation that fits your needs and preferences.

Getting around Quito

There are several options for getting around Quito, Ecuador:

Taxis: Taxis are plentiful in Quito and are a relatively inexpensive way to get around the city. It's best to use a licensed taxi and negotiate the fare before getting in.

Buses: Quito has an extensive bus system that covers most of the city. Buses are inexpensive but can be crowded and sometimes confusing for non-locals.

Metro: Quito has a modern metro system that opened in 2019. The metro currently has one line and serves the northern part of the city.

Trolleybus: Quito also has a trolleybus system that runs north-south through the city. It's a great way to get around the historic center.

Walking: Quito's historic center is compact and easily walkable. Many of the city's main attractions are within walking distance of each other.

Cycling: Quito has a bike-share program called "BiciQ" that allows users to rent bicycles for a small fee. There are also bike rental shops throughout the city.

It's important to keep in mind that Quito is a high-altitude city, so it's recommended to take it easy and drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness.

Airports and Flights to Quito

The main airport in Quito is Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO), which is located about 18 km east of the city center. Here's some information about flights to Quito:

International flights: Mariscal Sucre International Airport receives flights from a variety of international airlines, including American Airlines, Delta, United Airlines, JetBlue, Copa Airlines, LATAM Airlines, and more. There are direct flights to Quito from cities like Miami, New York, Houston, Dallas, Atlanta, Amsterdam, Madrid, Lima, and more.

Domestic flights: Mariscal Sucre International Airport also serves as a hub for domestic flights within Ecuador. There are flights to Quito from other major cities in Ecuador, including Guayaquil, Cuenca, Manta, and more.

Airlines in Ecuador: In addition to international airlines, there are also several local airlines that operate within Ecuador, including TAME, Avianca, LATAM Ecuador, and more.

Transportation from the airport: There are several options for transportation from the airport to the city center, including taxis, private transfers, and public buses. The official taxi service at the airport is operated by the Municipality of Quito, and it's recommended to use this service to avoid scams.

There are several airlines that offer direct flights from the USA to Quito, as well as many options for connecting flights. Some of the airlines that offer direct flights from the USA to Quito include American Airlines, Delta, United Airlines, and JetBlue.

Here are some examples of direct flights from the USA to Quito:

• American Airlines: Direct flights from Miami, Dallas, and New York
• Delta: Direct flights from Atlanta
• United Airlines: Direct flights from Houston
• JetBlue: Direct flights from Fort Lauderdale

In addition to these direct flights, there are many other options for connecting flights from other cities in the USA. You can check with our experts to find the best flight options and prices. It's also important to keep in mind any visa requirements for Ecuador and to book your flight accordingly.

Visa and entry requirements: Depending on your country of origin, you may need a visa to enter Ecuador. Citizens of some countries are exempt from visa requirements for stays of up to 90 days. It's important to check the visa requirements for your specific country before booking your flight to Quito.

There are plenty of options for flights to Quito, and it's a relatively easy city to reach from many parts of the world.