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Imagine stepping into a city where the air feels crisp and alive,perched high in the Andes with volcanoes standing guard in the distance. That’s Quito for you—a place where history and modern life dance together on cobblestone streets lined with colorful colonial buildings. The moment you wander through its old town,you’ll hear the lively chatter of locals mingling in plazas,the distant strum of guitars,and the occasional church bell echoing through narrow alleys. There’s a warmth here,not just from the sun but from the people who greet you with genuine smiles and a relaxed pace that invites you to slow down and savor the moment.
Walking around,you’ll catch the scent of fresh coffee mingling with the earthy aroma of nearby markets bursting with vibrant fruits and spices. Don’t miss trying a cup of Ecuadorian coffee paired with a slice of guava-filled empanada—it’s a small taste of the city’s rich flavors. Quito’s character shines in its blend of old and new:centuries-old churches and plazas sit alongside buzzing cafes and art galleries,reflecting a culture that honors its roots while embracing creativity.
What really stays with you is the city’s energy—a mix of history,nature,and everyday life that feels both grounded and inspiring. Whether you’re gazing out over the city from the Panecillo hill or chatting with artisans in La Ronda,Quito invites you to explore deeply and connect with a place that’s as vibrant as it is welcoming.
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Eng word: Hello
Eng pronunciation: OH-lah
Local language: Hola
Eng word: Goodbye
Eng pronunciation: ah-DYOS
Local language: Adiós
Eng word: Thank you
Eng pronunciation: GRAH-syahs
Local language: Gracias
Eng word: How much
Eng pronunciation: KWAN-toh KWEH-stah
Local language: ¿Cuánto cuesta?
Eng word: Toilet
Eng pronunciation: BAH-nyoh
Local language: Baño
Eng word: Help me
Eng pronunciation: ah-YOO-dah-meh
Local language: Ayúdame
Eng word: Yes
Eng pronunciation: SEE
Local language: Sí
Eng word: No
Eng pronunciation: NO
Local language: No
Eng word: Excuse me
Eng pronunciation: pehr-DOHN
Local language: Perdón
In 1978, Quito was one of the first cities to be declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its well-preserved historical center and rich cultural heritage.
Quito was officially founded on December 6,1534, by Spanish conquistadors led by Sebastián de Belalcázar. This date is celebrated annually with various festivities.
Constructed over 160 years, La Compañía de Jesús is one of Quito's most iconic churches, known for its stunning Baroque architecture and gold-leaf interior.
El Panecillo is a hill in the center of Quito that offers panoramic views of the city. It is crowned by a 45-meter-tall statue of the Virgin Mary, known as the Virgin of El Panecillo.
Also known as Plaza Grande, Independence Square is the heart of Quito's historic center. It is surrounded by important buildings like the Presidential Palace, the Cathedral, and the Archbishop's Palace.
Dating back to 1535, the San Francisco Church and Convent is the oldest and largest colonial structure in Quito. It features a mix of architectural styles and houses a museum with religious art.
Located just outside the city, the Middle of the World Monument marks the equatorial line. Visitors can stand with one foot in each hemisphere and explore the nearby Intiñan Solar Museum.
Quito's historic center is one of the best-preserved in Latin America, featuring narrow cobblestone streets, colonial-era buildings, and numerous churches and plazas.
The Basilica del Voto Nacional is a stunning neo-Gothic church in Quito. It is the largest neo-Gothic basilica in the Americas and offers breathtaking views from its towers.
TrainThere is no train service directly from the airport to the main area in Quito. It is recommended to use one of the other transportation options mentioned above for a more efficient journey.
TaxiTaking a taxi is the most convenient and quickest way to get from the airport to the main area in Quito. Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal and can take you directly to your destination.Ride ShareUsing a ride-sharing service like Uber or Cabify is another convenient option for getting from the airport to the main area in Quito. Simply request a ride through the app and wait for your driver to pick you up outside the terminal.Airport Shuttle BusThe airport shuttle bus is a more budget-friendly option for getting from the airport to the main area in Quito. The bus makes stops at various locations in the city, so it may take longer than a taxi or ride share.
In Quito, the most common Power Adaptor is Type A, Type B.
Some tourist information centers and travel agencies in the La Mariscal District offer luggage storage services for a fee
the La Mariscal District offer luggage storage services for a fee
Price not specified
No additional informationQuito Airport Lockersthe international terminalPrice not specifiedPrices vary depending on the size of the luggage and duration of storageLockers are available at some hostels and hotels in the Old Town area for guests to store their luggage before check-in or after check-outthe Old Town area for guests to store their luggage before check-in or after check-outPrice not specifiedOpening hours: at some hostels and hotels in the Old Town area for guests to store their luggage before check-in or after check-out, Lockers are available at some hostels and hotels in the Old Town area for guests to store their luggage before check-in or after check-out, Prices may vary depending on the provider
A refreshing dish made with fresh seafood, typically shrimp or fish, marinated in citrus juices and mixed with onions, cilantro, and tomatoes.
Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean delicacy, often served with potatoes and salad.
Delicious fried pastries filled with cheese, often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer, and sometimes served with aji sauce.
A dish made from mote (hominy) sautéed with eggs, onions, and spices, often enjoyed for breakfast.
Roasted pork, typically served with a side of potatoes, corn, and a spicy salsa, known for its crispy skin and tender meat.
A traditional dish of fried pork, often served with hominy, plantains, and a side of llapingachos (potato cakes).
A hearty potato soup made with cheese, avocado, and sometimes served with a side of corn, perfect for the cool Andean climate.
A flavorful goat stew cooked with beer, spices, and herbs, usually served with rice and avocado.
Panama Hat (Montecristi Hat)Handmade Ecuadorian ChocolateTagua Nut Jewelry and CraftsOtavalo Textiles and Alpaca Wool ProductsHand-Painted Tigua ArtEcuadorian CoffeeCarved Wooden Figurines from San Antonio de IbarraTraditional Ecuadorian PotteryAndean Flutes (Quena or Zampona)Local Herbal Teas (e.g., Guayusa)
If you ever find yourself in Ecuador,don’t skip Guayaquil—it’s a city that pulses with life and warmth in a way that instantly pulls you in. The moment you step onto the Malecón 2000,the bustling waterfront promenade,you’re greeted by the salty breeze mingling with the scent of fresh ceviche sizzling at nearby stalls. The city hums with a vibrant energy,from the chatter of locals sipping coffee in cozy cafés to the rhythmic clatter of boats along the Guayas River. It’s a place where the tropical sun kisses your skin and the colorful murals tell stories of a rich,resilient culture.
Guayaquil’s character is a blend of old and new,where colonial architecture stands shoulder to shoulder with modern art installations and lively street markets. Wander through Las Peñas,the historic neighborhood,and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time—cobblestone streets,brightly painted houses,and the distant strum of a guitar drifting from a corner bar. The city’s warmth isn’t just in the weather; it’s in the smiles of the people,the spontaneous salsa rhythms spilling from open windows,and the shared joy of a community proud of its roots.
And the food—oh,the food! Imagine biting into a plate of arroz con menestra y carne asada,the flavors rich and comforting,or savoring a sweet,juicy naranjilla fruit fresh from the market. Guayaquil invites you to slow down,soak in its vibrant spirit,and leave with a heart full of stories and a craving to return.
If you ever find yourself dreaming of a place where the ocean breeze carries the scent of salt and blooming frangipani,Puerto Ayora is that kind of town. It’s the lively heart of Santa Cruz Island in the Galápagos,but it doesn’t feel like a typical tourist spot. Instead,it hums with a laid-back energy—locals chatting over fresh ceviche,fishermen mending nets by the docks,and sea lions lazing just a few steps from the shore. The streets are a colorful mix of small shops,open-air markets,and cozy cafés where you can sip on rich Ecuadorian coffee while watching pelicans dive into the turquoise water.
Walking through Puerto Ayora,you’ll hear the chatter of different languages blending with the calls of exotic birds and the gentle splash of waves. The town’s charm lies in its balance between nature and community. You can stroll along the waterfront,spotting iguanas sunbathing on rocks,or hop on a boat to explore nearby islands teeming with wildlife. The local culture is warm and welcoming,with a strong connection to conservation and the unique ecosystem that surrounds them.
What really stays with you is the feeling of being part of something rare—where the wildness of the Galápagos meets the simple pleasures of small-town life. Whether you’re savoring fresh seafood grilled right on the beach or chatting with a guide about giant tortoises,Puerto Ayora invites you to slow down,breathe deeply,and soak in a world that feels both vibrant and timeless.
If you ever find yourself wandering through Cuenca,Ecuador,you’ll quickly notice it has this gentle,timeless rhythm that wraps around you like a warm shawl. The city’s colonial charm is everywhere—from the cobblestone streets that echo with the soft clip-clop of horse-drawn carriages to the vibrant markets where vendors call out in melodic Spanish,offering fresh flowers,handwoven textiles,and the richest coffee you’ve ever tasted. There’s a peacefulness here,but it’s alive with the hum of daily life,the laughter spilling from cozy cafés,and the distant toll of cathedral bells marking the hours.
Walking through Cuenca feels like stepping into a living painting. The pastel-colored buildings with their wrought-iron balconies are framed by the Andes’ misty peaks,and the air carries a mix of roasted corn,sweet empanadas,and the earthy scent of rain on stone. At sunset,the light softens,casting a golden glow over the Tomebamba River,where locals gather to chat and children splash in the shallows. It’s a place where history and modernity dance together—artisans craft Panama hats with nimble fingers while contemporary galleries showcase Ecuador’s vibrant creativity.
What really makes Cuenca special is its soul. The people here are warm and welcoming,proud of their heritage yet open-hearted to travelers. Whether you’re sipping a cup of locally grown coffee in a sunlit plaza or exploring the nearby Inca ruins,you’ll feel a deep connection to a place that’s both grounded and inspiring. Cuenca isn’t just a city to visit—it’s a place that invites you to slow down,breathe deeply,and savor the simple,beautiful moments.
Baltra is the main entry point to the Galápagos Islands,with an airport that connects travelers to the incredible biodiversity and natural wonders of the archipelago.
ExploreSan Cristóbal is one of the main islands in the Galápagos,known for its stunning beaches,sea lion colonies,and opportunities for snorkeling and diving with unique marine life.
ExploreIf you ever find yourself craving a place where the ocean breeze carries the scent of salt and fresh ceviche,Manta should be at the top of your list. This coastal city pulses with a laid-back energy that feels both vibrant and welcoming. Walking along the Malecón at sunset,you’ll hear the rhythmic crash of waves mingling with the laughter of locals and the distant hum of fishing boats returning with the day’s catch. The sky often blushes in shades of pink and orange,casting a warm glow over the bustling fish markets and street vendors selling grilled seafood that tastes like the sea itself.
Manta’s charm lies in its blend of authentic Ecuadorian culture and the easygoing rhythm of beach life. The city isn’t just about the ocean; it’s about the people who live here—the fishermen who greet you with a nod,the artisans crafting colorful souvenirs,and the families gathering for evening strolls. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and sweet tropical fruits fills the air,inviting you to slow down and savor the moment.
What really makes Manta stand out is how it balances tradition with a touch of modern flair. You can explore lively plazas where music spills from open windows,then slip into a quiet café to watch the world go by. Whether you’re diving into the crystal-clear waters,sampling local dishes bursting with flavor,or simply soaking up the sun on a sandy beach,Manta wraps you in a warm embrace that makes you want to stay just a little longer.
Scammers install skimming devices on ATMs to steal card information and PINs, which are later used for fraudulent transactions.
Tourists may be given counterfeit bills or incorrect change when exchanging money at unofficial exchange points or with street vendors.
Scammers use tactics like spilling liquids, bumping into tourists, or creating a commotion to distract them while an accomplice steals their belongings.
Scammers may approach tourists claiming to represent a charity or cause, pressuring them to donate money that does not go to any legitimate organization.
Scammers posing as police officers may approach tourists, ask for their passports or wallets, and steal money or valuables under the guise of a 'search.'
Unlicensed individuals may pose as tour guides, offering subpar or nonexistent services after taking payment upfront.
Vendors in tourist areas may charge significantly higher prices for souvenirs, especially if they sense the tourist is unfamiliar with local pricing.
Thieves often target tourists in crowded areas like public transportation, markets, and tourist attractions by discreetly stealing wallets, phones, or other valuables.
Some individuals may aggressively demand money after performing or offering unsolicited services, such as shoe cleaning or posing for photos in traditional attire.
Some taxi drivers may overcharge tourists by not using the meter, taking longer routes, or quoting inflated prices, especially at airports or tourist-heavy areas.
The possession, use, and trafficking of illegal drugs are strictly prohibited in Quito, Ecuador. The country has stringent drug laws, and violations can result in severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences. Even small amounts of drugs can lead to significant legal trouble. Tourists should avoid any involvement with illegal substances to ensure a safe and trouble-free visit.
In Quito, Ecuador, smoking is regulated by the Ley Orgánica para la Regulación y Control del Tabaco (Organic Law for the Regulation and Control of Tobacco). Smoking is prohibited in enclosed public spaces, workplaces, and public transportation. There are designated smoking areas in some public places, but these are clearly marked. Violations can result in fines for both the smoker and the establishment owner.
Vaping is subject to similar regulations as smoking in Quito. The use of electronic cigarettes is prohibited in enclosed public spaces, workplaces, and public transportation. Designated vaping areas may be available in some locations. It is advisable to look for signs or ask local authorities to avoid fines.
10.7 °C / 51.26 °F
2.01 Million
3/5
United States Dollar (USD)
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