Discover Quito’s Magical Culture and Iconic History
Get ready to explore the heart of Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at its colonial architecture and vibrant markets. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the city’s most iconic sites such as the churches Basílica del Voto Nacional and Compañía de Jesús.
But the adventure doesn’t end there. You’ll also head to the north to visit the equator line at Mitad del Mundo and experience what it means to be at the middle of the world.
-> The itinerary is subject to change for operational reasons.
-> Midland Travel recommends all passengers to have travel insurance that includes personal medical insurance and trip cancellation.
-> Level of difficulty: easy to moderate
-> If you have any special health requirements or needs, please let us know in advance.
English/Spanish
from/to your hotel in Quito
to Basilica del Voto Nacional towers, Compañía de Jesús church, San Francisco Convent, Inti Ñan museum and Mitad del Mundo monument
and any other services not mentioned as included
At 9 AM, our guide will pick you up at your hotel in Quito to take you to the historic center of Quito. To get an overview of the city, you’ll first visit El Panecillo Hill (3000 m / 9900 ft), where the statue of the virgin of Quito is waiting for you. Its convenient location in the center of the city offers you one of the best views of the old town and newer city parts to the north and south.
Afterwards, you’ll go down to explore the historic center of Quito more closely. First, you’ll examine the neo-Gothic church Basílica del Voto Nacional and notice its special gargoyles that represent the Ecuadorian animal kingdom. Then you will walk around Independence Square – the heart of Quito, which is surrounded by the Presidential Palace, the Cathedral, the Archbishop’s Palace, and the City Hall.
You’ll continue on to Sagrario Church and after that, visit the interior of la Compañía de Jesús church which is covered by gold leave. You will proceed to San Francisco Square to admire the church and convent of St. Francis and learn about its legends.
After lunch, you will travel almost 30 kilometers (19 miles) north to Mitad del Mundo – Middle of the World. Here, you’ll visit the interactive Inti Ñan Museum where you’ll learn about different Ecuadorian cultures and experience through different experiments what it is like to be at the equator. Later you will stop at the historical monument that symbolizes the French Geodesic Mission during the 18th century and its contribution to world history.
Return to your hotel in Quito.