Visit Quito, the Ecuadorian capital citysitting below the VolcanoPichinchaand surrounded by the picturesque Andes Mountains. With a rich history, theequatorial city’s Old Town is aperfect opportunity to see ancient landmarks, including the ruins of an Incancity.
Quito’s Old Town was made a UNESCO WorldCultural Heritage Site in 1978. Walk through this intriguing district to Independence Square, a landmark plazathat is flanked by colonial-style buildings. Admire the decorated façades ofthe Quito Metropolitan Cathedral, Carondelet Palace and the Archbishop’s Palace. Take some time toexplore the religious sights of the city, including the nearby La Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús, San Francisco Church, Santo Domingo Church and La Merced Church.
Take a breather in a nearby café andsavour a local wine, such as a spiced vino caliente, while enjoying the view. Try a plate of ceviche, a local seafooddish.
Sitting some 2,850 metres (9,350 feet)above sea level, Quito is the second-highest capital city in the world. Strikingmountain landscapes can be seen from every corner of the city. Climb the city’sEl Panecillo Hill for the best viewsof the rugged Andean surrounds. After looking out onto these naturallandscapes, take a day trip to the Pichincha Volcano or Cotopaxi National Park and experience the Ecuadorian wild. Take the opportunity to visit the Mitaddel Mundo Monument, which marks the location of the Earth’s equator.
Being an equatorial city, Quito’sclimate is moderate throughout the year, with a warmer period from June to September. Get around town using frequent trolleybuses and cheap taxis. Once inthe Old Town, navigate between sights on foot. Be aware of your belongings atall times when exploring popular tourist haunts, which are known to bepickpocketing targets.
Fly into Quito’s Mariscal SucreInternational Airport, which is 35 kilometres (22 miles) from the city centre.For a relaxing sightseeing tour, take the scenic railroad in Southern Quito,which stops at Estación de Chimbacalle.
