Quito, Ecuador-6-day-itinerary

November 9, 2024

Quito, Ecuador 6-Day Itinerary

Morning: Arrive in Quito and take a taxi or shuttle to your hotel. Spend the morning relaxing and acclimatizing to the high altitude (2,850 meters above sea level).
Afternoon: Visit the Plaza Grande (Independence Square), the heart of Quito’s historic center. Admire the beautiful colonial architecture, including the Cathedral of Quito and the Government Palace.
Evening: Enjoy a traditional Ecuadorian dinner at La Casa de los Abuelos, a cozy restaurant serving local dishes like locro (a hearty potato soup) and seco de pollo (chicken stew).

Morning: Explore the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its narrow streets, picturesque plazas, and colorful buildings. Visit the Monastery of San Francisco, one of the oldest and largest monasteries in South America.
Afternoon: Stop by the Museo de la Ciudad (City Museum) to learn about Quito’s history and culture.
Evening: Try some street food at the Mercado Central, where you can find traditional snacks like humitas (steamed corn pudding) and empanadas.

Morning: Take a ride on the TelefériQo, a cable car that offers stunning views of Quito from above. At the top, you can hike to the nearby Cruz Loma viewpoint for even more breathtaking vistas.
Afternoon: Visit the Equatorial Line Monument, which marks the spot where the equator passes through Ecuador. You can also explore the surrounding Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve.
Evening: Enjoy a drink at El Ventanal, a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city.

Morning: Take a day trip to Otavalo, a charming town about two hours north of Quito. Visit the famous Otavalo Market, where you can find traditional textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
Afternoon: Stop by the nearby Peguche Waterfall and take a short hike in the surrounding cloud forest.
Evening: Return to Quito and enjoy dinner at El Trompo, a popular restaurant serving modern Ecuadorian cuisine.

Morning: Take a day trip to Mindo, a beautiful cloud forest about two hours northwest of Quito. Explore the Mindo-Nambillo Cloud Forest Reserve and hike to the Tarabita Waterfall.
Afternoon: Visit the Butterfly Garden, where you can see over 1,000 species of butterflies.
Evening: Return to Quito and enjoy a farewell dinner at La Choza, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Ecuadorian dishes.

Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions.
Afternoon: Take a taxi or shuttle back to the airport for your departure flight.

Where to Stay

La Casona de la Ronda: A charming boutique hotel in the heart of Old Town.
Hotel Patio Andaluz: A comfortable hotel with a beautiful interior patio, located near Plaza Grande.
Airbnb options: Consider staying in a local’s home through Airbnb, which can offer a more authentic experience.

Transportation

Taxis: Taxis are widely available and affordable. Make sure to use licensed taxis with a yellow sticker on the windshield.
Bus: The public bus system is efficient and cheap. You can also take a bus tour to explore the city.
Walking: Quito’s historic center is pedestrian-friendly, so consider walking to nearby attractions.

Tips and Essentials

Altitude sickness: Drink plenty of water, eat light meals, and avoid strenuous activities for the first few days to acclimate to the high altitude.
Sun protection: Wear sunscreen with a high SPF, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the strong Andean sun.
Language: While many locals speak some English, consider learning basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience.
Safety: Take normal precautions to ensure your safety, such as avoiding traveling alone at night and keeping valuables secure.

Other Things of Interest

La Ronda Street: A picturesque pedestrian street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
El Panecillo Viewpoint: A hill offering stunning views of Quito, especially during sunset.
Quito’s Festivals: Check the city’s event calendar to catch one of the many festivals and celebrations throughout the year.

Enjoy your trip to Quito!