Get ready to experience authentic South American colonial and indigenous culture as you explore the world’s second-highest capital city, Quito! Here, a wealth of historical patrimony has made this dynamic city a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the Old Town, a casual stroll through the colonial plazas will take you to impressive cathedrals like the San Francisco Church and Convent and La Compañía (with a completely gold-leaf interior). You'll also see the Carondolet Presidential Palace and the commanding gothic cathedral, La Basilica del Voto Nacional. Keeping watch over the city is the aluminum monument of La Virgen de Quito on Panecillo Hill. And a short drive from here will bring you to the monument marking the geographic middle of the world. Quito also makes a great starting point for Andes, Galapagos, & Amazon tours.
El Panecillo – Named for its bun-shape, this hill overlooks the entire city of Quito, offering a fantastic panorama. It's also home to the renowned monument to the winged "Virgin of Quito," which keeps watch over the whole city.
Palacio Carondolet & the Plaza Grande are in the historical center of the city and serve as the seat of the government.
The TeleferiQo is a cable car that zips travelers to the top of the mountain, where you can breathe in the brisk highland air.
La Basilica del Voto Nacional is a marvel of gothic architecture and perhaps the most recognizable church in South America with its intricately carved towers and gargoyles.
San Francisco Convent, La Compañía Church, & El Sagrario are other impressive churches that highlight Quito's colonial center.
Cotopaxi Volcano – Just outside the city is the strikingly symmetrical, snow-capped Cotopaxi Mountain, an active volcano that is great for hikers of all levels.
Otavalo is undoubtedly the biggest and most well known artisan market in all of South America, where you can find brilliantly colorful tapestries, hand-carved wooden sculptures, leather goods, and a variety of other beautiful handicrafts.
I have travelled with Adventure Life previously and certainly eager to do it again. Kassandra made excellent and honest suggestions while taking the time to understand what was important to us.
Susan
1 day ago
They answered every question and concern that I had and put me at ease. Very excited for this once in a life-time trip.
Customer Tim
2 days ago
I am a returning client to Adventure Life and am very pleased with their commitment to put together a great trip. Clara replied and clarified to any and all questions we had.
Claire Palmer
4 days ago
Jessica was very responsive to my questions and never balked when I asked her to go back and find more options. She really worked hard to find the right cruise for us.
Amy Siegel
4 days ago
Friendly, accommodating, knowledgeable, timely. They have made us feel very comfortable for our trip!
