Ecuador's capital city Quito is stunningly located in a narrow Andean valley, 2,850 metres above sea level, its skyline dominated by views of the snow-capped Pichincha volcano. Quito was formerly just seen as a stepping stone en route to rural Ecuador or the Galapagos Islands, however, in recent years considerable restoration work has been undertaken in the historic colonial centre, which has now made exploring this part of the city town a real joy. The colonial centre was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978 is a treasure trove of architecture including mansion houses, churches, monasteries and museums.
Quito is a good base for trips to nearby haciendas and to Otavalo market for essential handicraft shopping. Keen birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts will also depart from Quito to drive into the cloud forests around Papallacta, Mindo and Maquipucuna. Jungle trips into the Ecuadorian Amazon basin also start and end in the capital. Flights to the Galapagos Islands depart from Quito via Guayaquil (on the coast) several times daily.
Galapagos Island Hopping Family Adventure
Itinerary Highlights
- Discover Quito's cobbled streets and colonial heritage
- Visit the Middle of the World and stand on the equator line
- Swim with sea lions in their natural habitat
- Unique wildlife viewing opportunities
Simply Galapagos
Itinerary Highlights
- Explore Quito's UNESCO World Heritage centre
- Snorkelling with sea lions and turtles
- Blue-footed boobies of the Galapagos
- Visit the Charles Darwin Research Centre
Hotel Patio Andaluz
Located in the historic heart of Old Quito, with beautifully restored churches, museums and national monuments just on its doorstep, Hotel Patio Andaluz holds centuries of history within its walls, which date back to the very foundation of the city. The hotel has 32 rooms and suites and a restaurant that serves local and Spanish cuisine. The Patio Andaluz is the perfect choice for those who like t...
Casa Gangotena
Casa Gangotena is a classy boutique hotel situated in a pretty restored mansion overlooking the Plaza San Francisco in the heart of Quito, within walking distance of many of the city’s attractions. The results of a three year restoration process can truly be seen in this elegant hotel. Spread over three floors, Casa Gangotena has 31 stylish rooms and suites with high ceilings and plush furni...
Hilton Colon Quito
Hilton Colon is located in the new part of Quito, known as the La Marsical district, and overlooks the "El Ejido" park. A modern 5* property, it features 255 soundproofed comfortable rooms all with modern amenities. Spread over two towers, rooms and suites offer views over the city. There are four dining options available onsite; the Cafe Colon offering Ecuadorian and international dishe...
Ecuador Explorer
Itinerary Highlights
- Colonial Quito & Cuenca
- Snow-capped Cotopaxi
- Avenue of the Volcanoes
La Casona de la Ronda
La Casona de la Ronda is situated on a celebrated narrow, winding street dating back to 1480 and earning its name in 1580 from the traditional nightly rounds that took place in the city. Once a hub for writers, poets and artists this is now the place to eat, drink and shop. La Casona’s 22 bedrooms are located around a central courtyard and are well-furnished with king or double beds, wooden ...
Hotel Plaza Grande
Hotel Plaza Grande is a delightful boutique property housed in a colonial building that dates back to the sixteenth century and has been beautifully converted to a luxury hotel with 15 suites. Some have a view of the plaza view and all are very spacious and well-appointed in an elegant classic style. It is located in the heart of colonial Quito overlooking the Plaza de la Independencia and across ...
Swissotel
One of Quito's leading five-star hotels, Swissotel is located in the Floresta neighbourhood of Quito and only 45 minutes away from Mariscal Sucre International Airport. La Floresta has developed a reputation for being one of the most charming neighbourhoods of any city in South America over the last 20 years. With designer workshops, farm-to-table restaurants and independent galleries dotted aroun...
Ecuador & Galapagos in Style
Itinerary Highlights
- Explore Quito's UNESCO World Heritage centre
- Unique wildlife viewing opportunities
- Masphi Lodge in Ecuador's Cloud Forest
- Spectacular Andes Landscapes of Otavalo
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