Things To Do
Middle of the World City
One of Ecuador’s most popular and unmissable tourist attractions. Nowhere else on the planet is it easier to visit the Equator line, or strike a pose with one foot in each hemisphere. Even Ecuador’s name was born of it’s location at latitude zero.
Centro Histórico
Explore the historic center of Quito. Follow the link we provided to get some idea of what Quito has to offer. However, there are tons of more options, so make sure to search online.
Papallacta Hot Springs
This is definitely a must do! Located just over an hour from Puembo or Cumbaya, the hot springs in Papallacta offer a perfect way to relax and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings.
Quilotoa Lake
Quilotoa is a water-filled crater lake and the most western volcano in the Ecuadorian Andes. Quilotoa is 178km south west from Ecuador’s capital Quito, located in Cotopaxi province. If you're looking for a spectacular hiking opportunity and take amazing pictures, this is the place to visit!
Parque Nacional Cotopaxi
Cotopaxi National Park is located to the south of Ecuador’s capital city, Quito. Cotopaxi volcano is the second-highest peak in the country with a height of 19,347 feet (5,897 m). Cotopaxi has lured climbing enthusiasts and tourists for centuries, and the surrounding parkland is great for adventure and wildlife spotting too. Without a doubt, Cotopaxi National Park one of the must-sees in Ecuador!
Galápagos Islands
The Galápagos Islands is a volcanic archipelago in the Pacific Ocean. It's considered one of the world's foremost destinations for wildlife-viewing. A province of Ecuador, it lies about 1,000km off its coast. The Galápagos are best known for their diverse array of plant and animal species. Many species are endemic, which means they are not found anywhere else in the world. The Galápagos Islands are a perfect attraction to get in close contact with nature.
Baños de Agua Santa
Baños de Agua Santa is a city in Ecuador’s Tungurahua province and a gateway to the nearby Amazon Basin 3 hours away from Quito. It’s known for access to trails on the active Tungurahua volcano just south, and for its mineral-rich hot springs. Enjoy beautiful views, extreme sports, and the jaw-dropping Pailon del Diablo and the Swing at the End of the World.
Otavalo
Otavalo is a town in the Andean highlands in the Imbabura province of northern Ecuador. It’s surrounded by volcanoes including the Imbabura Volcano. It's known for its Otavalo Market in the central Plaza de Ponchos, where traditionally clad indigenous townspeople sell colorful textiles and handicrafts.
TelefériQo Cable Car
TelefériQo is a gondola lift in Quito running from the edge of the city centre up the east side of Pichincha Volcano to lookout Cruz Loma. It is one of the highest aerial lifts in the world, rising from 3,117 m to 3,945 m. You can make this a day trip and hike the volcano, ride llamas or simply go for the views.
Restaurante Casa Gangotena
Amazing restaurant in the heart of Plaza de San Francisco. You can sit inside or out on the roof, walk through their garden, or get a drink at their bar. The concept behind the menu is "cocina mestiza": a culinary tribute to the mix of cultures that comprise Ecuador. Dishes offered on the menu are a mix of local indigenous traditions and European influences.
Katari Cumbayá
Want to sample a few beers and wine? This is a great “pour your own wine and beer” place! Order some food and you will receive a bracelet that allows you to sample as much beers and wine as you would like. We recommend the one in Cumbayá.