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Quito Travel Guide

About Quito

Once a stepping stone for the Galapagos Islands and a stopping point for the Amazon, travellers are now unearthing the colonial charm and cosmopolitan buzz of Ecuador’s proud epicentre, Quito.

The crowing glory of a country that offers that rare fusion of jungle, mountain and scintillating coast, Quito was once a crucial, northern frontier of the enormous Inca Empire. Little remains today of the capital’s pre-Hispanic history, but the city raised from its ashes is still a wondrous sight.

So immaculately-preserved in fact, its historical centre was one of the first places to receive UNESCO World Heritage status. Visitors are taken aback when climbing the steep, golden streets of the old town or when admiring the pretty, well-kept houses that have been turned into restaurants, shops and hotels.

This city has more than 50 churches, chapels and monasteries to explore as well as some world-class museums. After all, this was home to Miguel de Santiago, the leader of the prestigious Quito School. Contemporary genius, Oswaldo Guayasamín, lived here too and his Capilla del Hombre is one of Latin America’s most treasured art stops.

Quito is blessed with considerable natural beauty too. Built on the eastern slopes of Pichincha Volcano, it climbs to nearly 3,000m (9,843 ft) amidst the lofty Andes. From the old town rooftops, gaze across the peach buildings that crawl towards El Panecillo and its curious winged statue of the Virgin. Better yet, take advantage of the TelefériQo gondola for some spectacular vistas.

Mariscal, the nucleus around which the city’s cultural life revolves, shows Quito’s willingness to combine colonial-age appeal with 21st-century efficiency. Its lively nightlife fills up with hedonists of all descriptions as the evening drifts in. It’s also home to Quito’s best restaurants, with some interesting contemporary takes on Ecuadorean cuisine and an emerging fine-dining scene.

Visitors eventually leave for a volcano trek, or to the jungle, or even for a flight to the Galapagos Islands, but few regret having spent more than a paltry night’s rest in one of the most dynamic and historically rich metropolises this side of the world.

Key facts

Population:
1,505,000 (latest estimate, 2005)
Latitude:
-0.189691
Longitude:
-78.491560
A digital image at https://illuminoto.com

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Featured Hotels

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Hilton Colón Quito

Close to the historical district and Quito's airport, Hilton Colón Quito is a large compound, complete with the excellent Italian Portofino restaurant and a sushi bar. The main 19-storey tower overlooks Edijo Park and the Old Town. Large rooms have all the expected amenities. The hotel also boasts a fitness centre, a spa with Turkish bath and sauna, and an outdoor heated pool.

Hotel La Cartuja

This mansion house with a large green patio occupies the site of the former British Embassy. The US and French embassies are both next door. Rooms are spacious, with comfy beds. The kind if somewhat hectic service creates a homey feel. Laundry service and Internet are available.

Hostal El Taxo

This no-frills guesthouse offers a range of private rooms and shared dorms, most with shared bath. Everything is a bit ramshackle, but the atmosphere is great and it attracts a cool crowd of hip young travellers. Breakfast is not included.

The Secret Garden

One of very few accommodation options in the historical centre, this small Australian/Ecuadorian-run hostel is of outstanding value. Full of plants and flowers (hummingbirds feeding on the nectar), it is decorated with murals - the creation of visiting artists from all around the world. The terrace on the fifth floor overlooking the colonial district is unbeatable for a late-afternoon beer.

Community Hostel

Socially-minded and solo travellers should feel right at home with Community Hostel's daily schedule of activities, which include everything from a weekly food tour of the city to a Saturday night pub crawl. Situated in Quito's historic centre, the hostel also offers free Wi-Fi, security lockers, and 24 hour reception.

Casa Joaquin Boutique Hotel

Situated in the lively La Mariscal district, this boutique offering occupies the grounds of a restored colonial house and enjoys a rooftop terrace and large patio. Rooms include parquet flooring and all the modern fixtures and fittings you would expect, including a flat-screen TV, telephone and free Wi-Fi.