Quito
Quito, Ecuador's high-altitude capital perched at 9,350 feet in the Andes, offers a UNESCO-listed colonial old town, volcanic landscapes, and world-class cuisine at a fraction of the cost of comparable Latin American capitals. With hostel dorms under $15 and set lunches for $3, it rewards travelers who want authenticity without the price tag.
Why go to Quito
Historic Old Town (Centro Histórico)
The best-preserved colonial center in the Americas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site packed with gilded churches and cobblestone plazas.
La Compañía de Jesús Church
An explosively ornate 17th-century Jesuit church with seven tons of gold leaf coating its baroque interior.
TelefériQo Cable Car to Volcán Pichincha
Ride to 13,000 feet for jaw-dropping panoramic views of Quito and the surrounding volcanic ring.
Mitad del Mundo & Intiñan Museum
Stand on the true equatorial line, watch water drain in opposite directions, and balance an egg on a nail.
El Panecillo Hill & Virgin of Quito
A giant aluminum Virgin towers over the city; climb or taxi up for the best 360-degree view of Quito's sprawl and Andean peaks.
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Good to know in Quito
- Transit: The Ecovía, Trolebús, and Metrobús BRT lines cover the city's north-south axis for $0.45 per ride, buy a reloadable card at any terminal to save time.
- Tipping: Service is not always included; leaving 10% at sit-down restaurants is appreciated but not obligatory, and tipping is rare at market stalls and street food.
- Tap water: Do not drink tap water in Quito, stick to bottled water ($0.50-1 for 1.5L at any tienda) or use a filtered bottle to save money and plastic.
- Free-entry days: The Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana offers free admission on Sundays, and several municipal museums in the Centro Histórico are free every Sunday.