Quito may be the capital of Ecuador, yet it is only Ecuador’s second largest city after Guayaquil. With its 70 km length and only 4 km width, the city is exceptionally long. Quito has a historic center that is the second largest in Latin America after Havana in Cuba. In 1978 the center was placed on the World Heritage List of UNESCO.

The temperature fluctuates between 10 and 25 degrees with sometimes large temperature differences on one day. From Quito you can see not only the dormant volcano Pichincha, but also the snow peaks of the Cotopaxi, Antizana and Cayambe: on sunny days you have a majestic view of the Andes mountains.

For many visitors this is the starting point of their journey through Ecuador. It is also possible to make short trips in the area from the city: there are many interesting sights.

Quito is an impressive city with classic colonial architecture and modern buildings contrasting with the forests and volcanoes that surround the city. It is certainly one of the most beautiful capitals in South America.

Especially the center is worth a visit. The colonial center with its many old churches, some good museums, shops, cafes and restaurants is definitely worth a visit. Quito is the vibrant heart of Ecuador and without a visit to this city, your Ecuador trip is incomplete.

To visit: El Panecillo (a hill in the middle of the city with beautiful views over the city and the volcano Pichincha), the many churches (Iglesia de San Francisco, La Compañia, San Agustin), beautiful squares (Plaza de Independencia), museums (Casa de la Cultura, Museo Nacional del Banco Central, Museo Guayasamin).

The Mariscal district is the center of the nightlife with many bars, hotels and good restaurants. You can take the teleférico against the flanks of the Pichincha.

Furthermore, Quito is not far from other attractions such as Papallacta, Mindo, Otavalo, etc.