Quito - Ecuador

6 Day Quito City Tour: Discover the Heart of Ecuador

Welcome to the enchanting world of Ecuador, where the cultural tapestry of Quito awaits your exploration. Our meticulously crafted 6 day Quito city tour invites you to immerse yourself in the rich history, vibrant traditions, and breathtaking landscapes of this South American gem.

6 Day Quito City Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Quito

You will arrive in the captivating city of Quito, a destination that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty to create an enchanting Quito city tour experience. Situated amidst the majestic Andean mountains of South America, Quito stands as a living testament to Ecuador's rich and storied past. Founded by the Quitus tribe in ancient times and rebuilt as one of the most important colonial cities in the 16th century, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a fascinating tapestry of ancient civilizations and colonial architecture.

 

As one of the highest capitals in the world, Quito offers breathtaking panoramic views and a pleasant climate year-round. Its well-preserved historic center, with its cobbled streets and ornate churches, transports visitors back in time, while the modern neighborhoods buzz with contemporary energy. Boasting a vibrant arts scene, delectable cuisine, and a warm embrace of indigenous traditions, Quito presents a unique blend of the past and the present.

 

You will be met by our guide and transferred to your hotel.

 

Overnight in Quito.

Day 2: Mindo Experience day tour

Start your day with an early breakfast as we embark on a mesmerizing Quito city tour journey from Quito to Mindo, heading northwest on the Nono-Tandayapa-Bellavista Highway. Nestled in the cloud forest is the enchanting Mindo Valley, which is home to a variety of bird species, butterflies, and mammals.

A cable car ride offers a panoramic view of this natural wonderland's diverse fauna, flora, and wildlife. Enjoy a visit to an orchid garden where you can see a variety of species in their full splendor. The captivating butterfly garden is another must-visit. It's a haven with vibrant colors and delicate wings.

Take a lunch break to recharge before you embark on an exciting adventure or extreme sport. Mindo offers a wide range of adrenaline-fueled activities, including tubing, hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and trekking.

Join us for an unforgettable Quito city tour day trip to Mindo. The allure of nature’s wonders and thrilling adventures awaits at every turn. Enjoy the thrill of extreme sports and the magic of the cloud forests, with their vibrant biodiversity.

Meals: Breakfast

Day 3: Cotopaxi Nature Wonder Day Tour

After breakfast, a transfer will take you on a captivating Quito city tour to Cotopaxi National Park.

The Cotopaxi Volcano, the highest active volcano on earth, is a major landmark in Ecuador. The area is home to a variety of endemic fauna and flora, including wild horses, deer, and llamas.

The Cotopaxi Volcano forms part of the Cotopaxi National Park. This park was created in 1975 to protect biodiversity and the natural wonders of the area. The park covers approximately 33,393 acres (82,560 hectares) and features a variety of ecosystems, including forests, grasslands, and paramo (high-altitude grassland).

Hiking and trekking: Cotopaxi National Park offers a variety of trails for an immersive Quito city tour, allowing you to explore the park's stunning landscapes. You can choose from a variety of hikes, ranging in difficulty from short walks to multiday treks.

Horseback Riding: Immerse yourself in local culture and experience the Andean mountains on horseback during your Quito city tour. Horseback riding tours provide a unique perspective on the Cotopaxi region, allowing you to explore its scenic beauty and learn about the history and traditions of the area.

Wildlife Viewing: The Cotopaxi National Park has a diverse range of flora, fauna, and birds. Take a guided or self-guided tour to see wildlife like Andean Condors, wild horses, and rabbits.

Overnight in Quito

Meals: Breakfast

Day 4: Quilotoa Lake Day Tour

After breakfast, you will embark on a unique Quito city tour to the mesmerizing Quilotoa Volcano, where an amazing experience awaits you.

Quilotoa Volcanic Lake graces the Amazing "Avenue of Volcanoes," allowing you to traverse through small, colorful Indigenous Towns. The majority of the population in this zone is Indigenous, which means that several ancient customs are still observed nowadays; for example, Zumbahua is a Town that maintains these traditions on a daily basis. One of those traditions was painting, and in Tigua, we will enter one of those workshops to see the paintings.

Quilotoa is a collapsed volcano that has been inactive for thousands of years. A 9-kilometer cauldron was formed in its crater due to the eruption of the volcano. According to studies, the lava managed to reach the Pacific Ocean, and the cauldron is now home to a picturesque Lake that turns greenish-blue when sunlight hits the surface for a gorgeous view.

Embark on a hike along the trail along the rim of the Lake, an easy Quito city tour that is rarely crowded, and you are going to love the view of Quilotoa Lake from this point! After enjoying lunch, we will visit Insilivi town to partake in some local activities and bask in the warmth of the locals.

Overnight in Quito

Meals: Breakfast

Day 5: Quito Six Senses Tour and Equator Line Tour

Embark on a captivating Quito city tour after a delightful breakfast, guided by our experienced guide. Your day unfolds with a sensory-stimulating stroll through the enchanting streets and plazas of the largest historical center in America. Immerse yourself in the daily life, rich history, and vibrant traditions of this fascinating city. As we follow the path with the Seven Crosses, the journey to Quito Main Square (also known as Independence Square) unfolds, revealing colonial architecture and majestic church facades, including the Government Palace. Continuing through the historic streets, encounter families crafting traditional sweets. Indulge your taste buds in these local flavors. Venturing toward the heart of Quito, marvel at the historic Compania Church, adorned with sculpted interiors that capture the essence of the city's colonial past. Delve into the artistry of colonial churches and museums at "Escuela Quiteña," where skilled artists have painted and restored altars.

Unleash your creativity in a hands-on craft session. Embark on La Ronda, a historic district pulsating with art, crafts, and culinary delights. This oldest street in Quito is a cultural tapestry waiting to be explored. Continue to the San Marcos neighborhood, where architecture dating back to 1580 creates a picturesque scene. Pastel-colored buildings, clean curtains, and banners hanging from balconies characterize this vibrant area. Explore the Muñoz-Marino Watercolor Museum with its colonial interiors and open spaces. Visit a converted boutique hotel housed in an old colonial residence. Engage in local activities with San Marcos' residents and conclude your Quito city tour with a drink on the rooftop terrace, offering a panoramic view of Panecillo Hill surrounded by the Old City. Cap off this unique Quito city tour experience with a delightful cooking class and dinner.

Overnight in Quito

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.

Day 6: Farewell from Quito

After savoring a delightful breakfast, we have two exciting options ahead. You'll have the chance to embark on an unforgettable adventure in Ecuador, either by heading to the captivating Galapagos Islands or immersing yourself in the enchanting Amazon region. Alternatively, if you have an international flight to catch, worry not, as we also offer seamless transfers to the airport. Your journey promises to be filled with amazing experiences and seamless logistics to ensure a truly memorable trip.

6 Day Quito City Tour Itinerary Highlights

  • Quito introduction - history, culture, beauty. UNESCO site, views, arts, traditions. Smooth hotel transfer by guide.
  • Mindo Valley's wildlife, cable car, orchids, butterflies. Tubing, hiking, kayaking adventures.
  • Otavalo tour - culture, markets, indigenous traditions. Cuicocha Lake cruise, volcanic scenery.
  • Quilotoa Volcano - lake, Indigenous culture, scenic hike.
  • Quito exploration - old town, sweets, churches, neighborhoods. Equator Line, Intiñan Museum's experiments. Sensory journey.

Meals Included

  • Breakfast Served Daily
  • 5 Dinners
  • 6 Lunches
Quito - Ecuador
Butterfly Mindo
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Cotopaxi
6 Day Quito City Tour: Discover the Heart of Ecuador
6 Days


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Hotels you may stay at

Ecuador is a country full of beautiful landscapes and a rich culture. It's ranked as one of the top destinations in South America. You can choose from a wide range of hotels in Quito that cater to different budgets and preferences.

The Illa Experience Hotel is a 5-star hotel in Quito that offers the best luxury experience. Immerse yourself in luxury and refinement in our 5-star accommodations. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the city, world-class facilities, and impeccable service to make your stay in Quito unforgettable.

Patio Andaluz, a 4-star Hotel

The Ikala Hotel, a 3-star hotel

Frecuently Asked Questions

What are the must-visit attractions in Quito during a city tour?

Quito, with its rich history and culture, boasts several must-visit attractions. The Quito Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a treasure trove of colonial architecture, including the iconic Independence Square and the historic Compania Church. The Panecillo Hill offers panoramic views of the city, and La Ronda, the oldest street, is perfect for exploring art, crafts, and local cuisine.

What is the best time to go on a Quito city tour?

The best time for a Quito city tour is during the dry season, which typically runs from June to September. During these months, the weather is mild and conducive to exploring the city on foot. However, Quito's temperate climate makes it suitable for tours year-round, and each season brings a unique charm to the city.

What landmarks are covered during the Quito city tour's historical exploration?

The historical exploration includes iconic landmarks. Begin with the Seven Crosses, witness the colonial architecture on the way to Independence Square, and marvel at the Compania Church.

Explore the historical San Marcos neighborhood, with pastel-colored buildings and the Muñoz-Marino Watercolor Museum. The tour ensures a comprehensive journey through Quito's captivating history.

Start your journey that transcends typical travel experiences. Immerse yourself in the unique blend of history, culture, and natural wonders that Quito, the heart of Ecuador, has to offer.

Secure your spot on this unforgettable adventure – book your Quito City tour now!
Start your journey that transcends typical travel experiences. Immerse yourself in the unique blend of history, culture, and natural wonders that Quito, the heart of Ecuador, has to offer.