Choose from 31 Fun Things to Do in Quito
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Santo Domingo Plaza (Plaza de Santa Domingo)
Santa Domingo Plaza graces the southern edge of Quito’s Old Town and is easily missed by visitors. It’s an airy plaza, dominated by the imposing Santo Domingo Cathedral on its southeastern side. In the center of the square a statue of hero Antonio José de Sucre points towards Pichincha Volcano where he won the battle for Ecuador’s independence in 1822.
The Santo Domingo Cathedral dates back to 1581 and houses an impressive statue of the Virgen del Rosario in an ornately carved baroque-style chapel. If you visit the plaza at night, the cathedral’s domes look beautiful floodlit.
The Plaza comes alive on weekends when neighboring Quiteños converge on the square to watch the various acrobats, jugglers and magicians go through their routines.
Practical Info
If you plan an evening visit to Santa Domingo Plaza, it is best to go as part of a group, or arrange for a taxi there and back, so you are not a target for would-be muggers.
Santa Domingo Plaza is near the southwest end of Calle Guayaquil in Quito's Old Town.
Address: Plaza de Santa Domingo, Old Town, Quito, Ecuador
Admission: Free
From $ 15
El Altar Mountain
El Altar Mountain, called Kapak Urku (meaning "sublime mountain" in the indigenous language), is an extinct volcano on the western side of the Sangay National Park, about 106 miles (170 km) south of Quito. It's part of what is sometimes called the "Top Ten" in Ecuador, the group of peaks over 16,000 feet (5,000 meters) tall.
Spaniards named it the Altar because they thought it looked like a group of nuns and friars gathered at a church altar. The names of the individual peaks are also inspired by the Catholic religion: Bishop, Nun, Tabernacle and the Three Monks. El Altar is made up of nine major peaks arranged in a horseshoe-shaped ridge around a crater at about 13,800 feet (4,200 meters).
El Altar is perhaps the most-demanding climb in Ecuador, and December through February is the best time to attempt an ascent. The hike to the lake within the caldera of the mountain is more accessible.
For those who dare the climb, the views of Andean valleys, rain forests, active volcanoes, and hundreds of shimmering lakes all make the effort worth it.
Practical Info
There is a $10 fee to enter the park, which can be reached by bus from Riobamba.
Address: Morona-Santiago, Ecuador
Admission: $10
From $ 179
Teleferico Quito
Ringed by mountains, Quito has no shortage of viewpoints, but the ultimate view of the Ecuadorian capital has to be from the peak of the Pichincha Volcano, reached by the Teleferico Quito. Opened in 2005, the gondola lift runs up the east side of the still-active volcano, reaching a height of 3,945 meters, which makes it South America’s highest aerial lift. The dramatic ascent, which takes around 10 minutes, offers impressive views over the city and surrounding mountain valleys, but the best lookout point is on arrival, from the top of the Cruz Loma plateau.
As well as riding the Teleferico, visitors can follow a number of marked hiking trails, enjoy a horseback riding excursion or dine at one of the mountaintop restaurants and cafés, while the Vulqano Park amusement park, located at the foot of the mountain, makes a popular distraction for younger members of the family.
Practical Info
The Teleferico Quito runs up the east side of the Pichincha Volcano, just west of downtown Quito and is Monday to Friday from 9am-6pm, weekends from 9am-8pm. Adult admission costs $8.50.
Address: Quito, Ecuador
Admission: Adults: $8.50
From $ 12
Presidential Palace
The Presidential Palace (in Spanish, Palacio de Carondelet) is located in Quito's Independence Square and is currently the seat of government of the Republic of Ecuador.
After the Battle of Pichincha in 1822, the palace became the headquarters of the south department of Gran Colombia, a name used today for a short-lived republic that encompassed much of northern South America and part of southern Central America. The palace was later refurbished in the 19th century by Barón Luis Hector de Carondelet, giving it its current name.
The palace was built in the French Renaissance and Spanish Baroque architectural styles and is now open to tours. In 2007, Ecuador's president, Rafael Correa, converted part of the palace into a museum for the benefit of the people of Ecuador and visitors.
Highlights of the tour are portraits of past and present presidents of Ecuador, elegant colonial-style meeting rooms, inner courtyards and an area that displays gifts from other nations. Art and historic objects such as furniture are also on display.
The president of Ecuador and his family reside on the third floor.
Practical Info
The palace is open to tours Tuesday through Sunday, and admission is free. Allow about 45 minutes for the tour.
Address: García Moreno N10-43 entre Chile y Espejo, Quito 170401, Ecuador
From $ 34
Termas de Papallacta Spa
Just a 40-mile (67-km) ride from Quito through the Amazon jungle lies the 625 acres (253 hectares) of the privately owned Termas de Papallacta Spa.
This hotel spa and resort features thermal baths on the banks of the Papallacta River, which crosses the property. Situated in a unique environment between the Cayambe and Antiisana volcanos, the odorless thermal waters in the nine pools vary between 97 F (36 C) and 104 F (40 C), providing health benefits in a soothing environment.
Enjoy some pampering and relaxation in the hot-water thermal pools or the three cold-water pools. The spa also offers hydro massages using water jets or air bubbles, facials, reflexology and aromatherapy.
Take advantage of self-guided walks on the many nature paths, or opt for the orientation given by native guides. The abundance of animals and plants on the property includes 160 species of birds. This private nonprofit organization has a research and interpretation center that has audiovisual information on locally found species. The resort restaurant has a diverse menu of national and international cuisine. Local fresh trout is the specialty, and many ingredients are picked from the organic vegetable garden on-site.
Practical Info
Termas de Papallacta Spa is located east of Quito at km 65 via Baeza, Papallacta, Ecuador. It is recommended to make lodging reservations at least a week in advance.
Address: km. 65 via Quito, Baeza, Equador, Ecuador
From $ 66
Quilotoa Lagoon
Quilotoa Lagoon was formed when a now-extinct volcano collapsed and the resulting crater was filled with a startling emerald-green lake, the color resulting from volcanic minerals. Just south of Quito, the village and lagoon of Quilotoa have become a popular day-trip destination, affording spectacular views and photo opportunities.
The Basics
Most visitors choose to discover Quilotoa Lagoon on a full-day tour from Quito. A typical tour itinerary includes a scenic drive along the Avenue of Volcanoes, stopping at villages, such as Latacunga, Tigua, or Pujili, along the way. Walking paths meander up and down along the crater, and the complete hike around the rim takes about four hours. It’s also possible to descend from the rim of the crater to the lake below, either by hiking or hiring a mule.
An overnight tour means you can spend more time exploring or combine it with a visit to the nearby Cotopaxi National Park.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is an entrance fee to access the lake viewpoints and walking trails.
- The lake is located at high altitude, and if you’ve just arrived in Quito, it’s recommended to spend a couple of days acclimatizing before hiking or biking.
- Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water if you plan on walking around the crater.
How to Get There
The Quilotoa Lagoon is about a 3-hour drive southwest of Quito. There is no public transport to the lagoon, and the easiest way to get there is to join a guided tour or arrange a private tour from Quito.
When to Get There
It’s possible to visit the Quilotoa Lagoon all year-round, and there is little variation in temperatures throughout the year. The most popular time for hiking and outdoor activities is during the dry months from July to September.
Hiking the Quilotoa Loop
For a more challenging hike, the Quilotoa Loop is a 125-mile (201-kilometer) circuit starting in Latacunga and winding its way through mountain valleys, along grassy plains, and through lively market towns. The 3- to 4-day trek offers incredible viewpoints of the Andes mountains, passing through Andean villages, such as Zumbahua, Chugchilán, and Sigchos, and encircling the famous crater lake of Quilotoa.
Address: Quilotoa, Ecuador
From $ 61
San Francisco Church
Nestled in the historic downtown area of Quito, visitors find the first Catholic Church built in the city, the San Francisco Church (Iglesia de San Francisco). The amazing architecture of this Baroque church blends different styles that were incorporated over the more than 100 years of construction.
The church stands on the open San Francisco Plaza, where the city once drew its water, held weekly food markets and general meetings and where military and political demonstrations took place.
Construction of the church started in the 1530s, shortly after the Spaniards arrived in Ecuador. Although much of the church has been rebuilt due to earthquake damage, some of it is original, and it constitutes the largest colonial structure in the city.
The churches and cloisters stand on almost two whole blocks and include an atrium, a courtyard and a convent. The atrium runs along the length of the public square, with access to the plaza by means of a fan-shaped staircase. Franciscan fathers still live here and work to help the poor.
The entrance is adorned with images of the sun, decorations that were used to attract indigenous communities to the Catholic Church. Combinations of indigenous and Catholic symbols are repeated throughout the church. The interior of the church shows a Moorish influence on the walls and columns, which are covered in gold leafing. Of the 3,500 works of art, many are from the Quito School of art.
Practical Info
The church is open Monday through Saturday 7am to noon and 3 to 5:30pm, and Sunday 7am to noon. Admission is free, and there are also tour guides available.
Address: Cuencas y Sucre 477, Quito, Ecuador
From $ 15
Museum of Colonial Art (Museo De Arte Colonial)
A short stroll from Plaza Grande, the Museum of Colonial Art (or Museo de Arte Colonial) is in a restored 17th century mansion and includes a fine collection of 16th to 18th century paintings, sculpture and furniture.
Works by renowned "˜Quito School' artists Miguel de Santiago, Manuel Chili (the indigenous artist known as Caspicara), and Bernardo de Legarda feature along with some of Quito's finest colonial art.
Works by renowned "˜Quito School' artists Miguel de Santiago, Manuel Chili (the indigenous artist known as Caspicara), and Bernardo de Legarda feature along with some of Quito's finest colonial art.
The Museo de Arte Colonial is not open on Sunday or Monday.
Practical Info
The Museo Arte Colonial is in the Old Town on Cuenca street where it crosses with Mejía, two blocks to the northwest of Plaza Grande.
Address: Cuenca 415, Quito, Ecuador
Admission: Varies
From $ 15
Church of the Society of Jesus (Iglesia La Compañía de Jesús)
The Church of the Society of Jesus, (in Spanish, Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús), often called la Compañía, is a Jesuit church in Quito and is one of the most significant works of Spanish Baroque architecture in South America.
The company in question is the Jesuit order, a powerful religious group that exercised authority in Ecuador. The first Jesuit priests arrived in Quito in 1586 with the mission to establish a church, school and monastery.
Construction of this church began in 1605, though the building was not completed until 1765. It is considered Quito's most-ornate church is and often called the country's most-beautiful church. During the colonial period, the church's bell tower was the tallest structure in Quito, but it was destroyed by an earthquake in 1859. Rebuilt within six years, it was again destroyed shortly after by another earthquake and was never rebuilt.
The 160-year construction period explains the difference in design between the Baroque facade and the Renaissance interior. The floor plan is in the shape of a Latin cross, and the architects incorporated elements of four architectural styles, Baroque being the most prominent. Moorish influence can be seen in the geometrical figures on the pillars in the nave, and there are neoclassical influences as well.
The decoration includes gold-leaf work, gilded plaster and wood carvings. Design elements include a near-symmetrical facade, with 10 side altars and a gold-plated altar plated. Much of the artwork was done by artists of the Quito School.
Practical Info
The Church of the Society of Jesus is located at the corner of Benalcazar 562 and Antonio Jose de Sucre. Admission is $4 for foreigners. Guided tours in Spanish or English are included in admission. Entrance is free on the first Sunday of the month. The church is open Monday through Thursday 9:30am "“ 6:30pm, Friday 9:30am "“ 5:30pm, Saturday 9:30am "“ 4:15pm, and Sunday 12:30 "“ 4:15pm.
Address: Benalcazar 562 y Antonio Jose de Sucre, Quito, Ecuador
Admission: $4
From $ 5
Sangay National Park
The extraordinary biodiversity of the Sangay National Park in the Andes mountains of Ecuador led to it being declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park also has the natural beauty of three volcanoes, El Altar, Tungurahua and Sangay, the last two of which are active. In fact, the park is named after the Sangay volcano, which in the Quechua language means "to frighten."
Sangay National Park has a range in altitude, from 3,280 to 17,158 feet (1,000 to 5,230 meters), creating a variety of ecosystems that vary from tropical rainforests to glaciers, with perpetual snow on mountaintops.
The park boasts over 324 lakes, including the immense 3.1-mile-long (5-km-long) Pintada Lake. Vegetation varies from lichens and bryophytes in the high páramo zones to Royal Palms in the subtropical rainforest and includes such tropical plants as guayacum, bromeliads, chontaduro and orchids.
This is also the place for animal lovers "” puma, Andean fox, spectacled bear, ocelot, mountain tapir and giant otter are all found here. The park also delights birdwatchers with species such as condor, giant hummingbird and Andean cock-of-the-rock.
It's possible to get around the park by hiking, biking or horseback riding.
Practical Info
Sangay National Park is in Morona-Santiago, Ecuador. Admission is free, and tour guides are recommended.
Address: Morona-Santiago, Ecuador
From $ 179
Quito Old Town
The historical heart of Ecuador’s capital, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Quito Old Town is the first port of call for most visitors to the city. Known for its cobblestone lanes, Spanish colonial architecture, and beautiful churches, it’s Quito’s most atmospheric district.
The Basics
The best way to explore the Old Town is on a walking tour. Most sights are within strolling distance of the main squares—Plaza de la Independencia (aka Plaza Grande), Plaza Santo Domingo, and Plaza San Francisco—making it easy to check off top attractions such as the Central Market (Mercado Central), the Independence Monument (El Monumento a la Independencia), and the Archbishop’s Palace (Palacio Arzobispal).
Many Quito city tours combine a walking tour of the Old Town with a view from Panecillo hill, a ride on the Teleferico to the top of Pichincha Volcano, or a visit to the Middle of the World monument, Ecuador’s equator line.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Quito is located at an altitude of 9,350 feet (2,850 meters), and visitors flying in from areas of lower altitude may need a day or two to acclimatize. It’s best not to plan any strenuous activities during this time.
- Many of the Old Town’s restaurants, bars, and nightlife venues are located along La Ronda.
- Many of Quito’s museums are closed on Mondays.
How to Get There
Plaza Grande marks the center of Quito Old Town, which lies between La Mariscal in the north and El Panecillo in the south. It’s easy to get around the Old Town on foot, but trolley buses and taxis are also widely available.
When to Get There
The Old Town is closed to traffic on Sundays from 8am to 2pm, a lively time when the pedestrianized streets are filled with street performers and handicraft vendors. Another popular time to visit is on Monday morning at 11am, when the weekly Changing of the Guards ceremony takes place outside the Presidential Palace (Palacio de Carondelet).
Religious Buildings of Quito Old Town
The Old Town has more than 200 churches, convents, and monasteries. Among the most impressive are the Catedral Metropolitana de Quito, on Plaza de la Independencia, and the neo-Gothic Basílica del Voto Nacional, Quito’s largest church, both of which offer spectacular city views from their bell towers. Also notable are the Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús, known for its lavishly gilded baroque interiors, and the Convento de San Francisco, now home to a huge museum of religious art.
Address: Ecuador
Admission: Free
From $ 44