Exploring the vibrant city of Quito has never been easier than with this private tour that takes visitors on an unforgettable journey. From the awe-inspiring Basilica del Voto Nacional to the historic Catedral Metropolitana, this comprehensive experience showcases the city’s rich cultural heritage. Soar high above the bustling streets on a scenic cable car ride, admiring the majestic Pichincha Volcano, before standing on the iconic equatorial line at the Middle of the World monument. With breakfast and refreshments included, this personalized tour promises to leave a lasting impression. What awaits those who choose to embark on this captivating adventure?

Key Points

PRIVATE Tour, City Tour Quito With Cable Car and Middle of the World - Key Points

  • Provides a private, guided tour showcasing Quito’s top attractions, including the Basilica del Voto Nacional, Catedral Metropolitana de Quito, and the Middle of the World monument.
  • Offers a scenic cable car ride for panoramic views of Quito’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the surrounding Pichincha Volcano peaks (availability dependent).
  • Includes breakfast, alcoholic beverages, and knowledgeable guides for a comfortable and immersive experience.
  • Allows for exploring Ecuador’s Catholic heritage at the Neo-Gothic Basilica del Voto Nacional and the 16th-century Catedral Metropolitana de Quito.
  • Offers a cultural experience at the Middle of the World monument, where the equatorial line is marked, with museums, shops, and restaurants.

Overview and Highlights

PRIVATE Tour, City Tour Quito With Cable Car and Middle of the World - Overview and Highlights

The private City Tour Quito with Cable Car and Middle of the World offers a comprehensive experience showcasing the highlights of Ecuador’s vibrant capital city.

Guests will explore the iconic Basilica del Voto Nacional and the Catedral Metropolitana de Quito, both architectural marvels. The tour also includes a cable car ride, providing panoramic views of Quito (subject to availability).

One of the tour’s standout experiences is a visit to the Middle of the World, where travelers can stand on the equatorial line that divides the northern and southern hemispheres.

With a private air-conditioned vehicle, knowledgeable guides, and inclusion of breakfast and alcoholic beverages, this tour provides an immersive and memorable way to discover the history and culture of Quito.

Transportation and Meals

PRIVATE Tour, City Tour Quito With Cable Car and Middle of the World - Transportation and Meals

A private air-conditioned vehicle, either a van or small car, transports guests throughout the tour. The tour includes breakfast and alcoholic beverages, though tickets for the cable car and museums are not covered.

Inclusions Exclusions
Private air-conditioned vehicle Cable car tickets
Breakfast Museum entrance fees
Alcoholic beverages

This comprehensive package ensures a comfortable and well-catered experience, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the sights and sounds of Quito without additional out-of-pocket expenses.

Basilica Del Voto Nacional

After being transported by the private air-conditioned vehicle, guests first visit the Basilica del Voto Nacional. This neo-Gothic masterpiece took over 100 years to construct and is one of Quito’s most iconic landmarks.

Visitors can admire its impressive architecture, including:

  1. Intricate stone carvings adorning the facade
  2. Soaring bell towers that provide panoramic views of the city
  3. Ornate stained-glass windows illuminating the interior
  4. Detailed sculptures and artwork depicting religious scenes

The Basilica del Voto Nacional is a free-to-enter attraction, allowing guests to explore its grandeur at their own pace and gain insight into Ecuador’s rich Catholic heritage.

Catedral Metropolitana De Quito

PRIVATE Tour, City Tour Quito With Cable Car and Middle of the World - Catedral Metropolitana De Quito

Departing from the impressive Basilica del Voto Nacional, guests then make their way to the Catedral Metropolitana de Quito. This 16th-century Roman Catholic cathedral stands as a stunning example of Spanish colonial architecture. Visitors have 30 minutes to explore the cathedral’s ornate interior, marveling at the intricate altars, stained-glass windows, and detailed woodcarvings. The cathedral’s history dates back to the 1500s, making it a crucial part of Quito’s cultural heritage.

Architectural Style Size Construction Significance
Spanish Colonial 100m long, 35m wide Begun in 1530, completed in 1806 One of the oldest cathedrals in South America

Cable Car Ride Experience

Towering above Quito, the Teleferico cable car system offers visitors a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and the surrounding Andes mountains.

The cable car ride takes guests on a scenic 2.5-mile journey, ascending 1,800 meters above sea level. This popular attraction provides:

  1. Sweeping vistas of Quito’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  2. Panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks of Pichincha Volcano.
  3. A chance to experience the transition from the bustling city to the tranquil, natural surroundings.
  4. An opportunity to explore the hiking trails and observation decks at the top of the ride.

While weather conditions can impact the cable car’s operation, this experience is a must-do for visitors seeking to capture the grandeur of Quito from above.

Middle of the World

The tour then takes visitors to the iconic Middle of the World monument, where they can stand on the equatorial line that divides the northern and southern hemispheres.

This unique location, situated just 16 miles north of Quito, marks the site where two hemispheres meet. Travelers can explore the monument, take photos, and learn about the history and significance of this geographic landmark.

The Middle of the World complex also features museums, shops, and restaurants, providing a comprehensive cultural experience.

This highlight of the tour allows visitors to truly enjoy the wonders of Ecuador’s equatorial location and the rich heritage of the region.

Meeting and Pickup Details

According to the information provided, the tour’s meeting and pickup arrangements are as follows.

The tour starts at 8:45 AM, with pickup locations available at any address within Quito. For those outside the city, pickup arrangements can be coordinated separately.

The tour is a private experience, meaning only your group will participate. The pickup will be in a private air-conditioned vehicle, which can be a van or a small car.

The key meeting and pickup details are:

  1. Pickup Locations: Any address within Quito
  2. Outside Quito: Pickup arrangements coordinated separately
  3. Start Time: 8:45 AM
  4. Tour Type: Private, with only your group participating

Accessibility and Confirmation

PRIVATE Tour, City Tour Quito With Cable Car and Middle of the World - Accessibility and Confirmation

Regarding accessibility, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and doesn’t accommodate strollers. Participants must be able to climb stairs and navigate uneven terrain. The tour is also not suitable for those with serious medical conditions.

However, the tour provider confirms the booking upon purchase, ensuring a seamless experience. Travelers receive confirmation at the time of booking, which includes details on the meeting point and pickup time.

The tour is a private experience, meaning only the booked group participates, allowing for a more personalized and flexible itinerary. The tour offers a comprehensive way to explore Quito’s highlights, though accessibility may be a consideration for some travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Children Participate in This Tour?

Yes, children can participate in this tour. The tour is suitable for all ages and does not have any age restrictions. Families with children are welcome to join this private city tour of Quito.

Is There a Dress Code for This Tour?

There is no strict dress code, though comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes are recommended. The tour involves some walking, so dressing for comfort is advisable. Casual attire is generally acceptable.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Our Preferences?

The tour can be customized to the travelers’ preferences. The private nature of the tour allows for flexibility in the itinerary and pace to accommodate individual needs and interests. The tour provider is happy to tailor the experience upon request.

How Long Is the Cable Car Ride?

The cable car ride typically lasts around 15-20 minutes, providing panoramic views of Quito. However, its availability is subject to change, so the tour operator may offer alternative sites if the cable car is unavailable.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Take This Tour?

The best time of year to take this tour is during the dry season, typically from June to September, when the weather is sunny and clear, making for optimal conditions for the cable car ride and panoramic views.

Recap

This private tour of Quito offers a comprehensive experience, showcasing the city’s iconic landmarks and natural wonders. From the impressive Basilica del Voto Nacional to the historic Catedral Metropolitana, and the thrilling cable car ride with panoramic views, the tour provides an immersive exploration of Quito’s rich cultural heritage. The highlight is undoubtedly the visit to the equatorial line at the Middle of the World monument, where visitors can stand on the equator.