Quito’s Old Town beckons visitors with its captivating blend of colonial charm and vibrant culture. Embarking on this comprehensive day tour, travelers can enjoy the city’s rich history, from the neo-Gothic splendor of the Basilica del Voto Nacional to the picturesque cobblestone streets. But the true highlight of the experience? Soaring above the cityscape in a gondola, offering breathtaking vistas of the Andes. And the journey doesn’t end there, as the tour leads explorers to the Equatorial line, where interactive exhibits shed light on the unique natural phenomena found at the intersection of the northern and southern hemispheres.
Key Points
- This full-day tour in Quito showcases the city’s rich history and culture, including the UNESCO-listed historic center and the iconic Basilica del Voto Nacional.
- The tour includes a scenic gondola ride to an elevation of 4,100 meters, offering stunning views of the surrounding Andes mountains.
- Visitors will explore the cobblestone streets and colonial architecture of Quito’s historic center, as well as visit key sites like the La Compañía de Jesús church.
- The tour also includes a visit to the equatorial line, where travelers can engage in interactive exhibits and experiments to observe the Coriolis effect.
- The experience is led by a knowledgeable local guide and includes round-trip hotel transport, with high traveler satisfaction based on reviews.
👉 Check out our guide to the 5 Best Guided Tours In Quito
Contents
- Key Points
- Overview of the Tour
- Highlights of the Basilica
- Exploring Quito’s Historic Center
- The Gondola Ride Experience
- Visiting the Equatorial Line
- Insights Into Quito’s History
- Tour Logistics and Details
- Traveler Reviews and Ratings
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Activities?
- What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
- Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?
- Can the Tour Be Booked in Other Languages Besides English?
- What Is the Cancellation and Rescheduling Policy for the Tour?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Quito
- More Tours in Quito
- More Tour Reviews in Quito
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Quito we have recnetly reviewed
Overview of the Tour
The private Quito Old Town Tour offers a full-day experience that immerses visitors in the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.
This comprehensive tour showcases the top attractions, including the iconic Basilica del Voto Nacional and the UNESCO-listed historic center.
Travelers will explore the winding streets of Quito’s Old Town, discover the enchanting legends behind its architectural wonders, and ride South America’s highest gondola for breathtaking views.
With round-trip hotel transport and a knowledgeable local guide, this tour provides an in-depth exploration of Quito’s past and present, delivering cultural insights and unforgettable memories.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Quito.
Highlights of the Basilica
Towering above Quito’s historic center, the Basilica del Voto Nacional impresses visitors with its grand neo-Gothic architecture. The largest basilica of its kind in the Americas, it’s technically unfinished – a local legend claims it’ll be completed when the world ends.
Explore the basilica’s stunning interior, with its intricate carved stone and stained glass windows. Climb the towers for sweeping views over Quito’s rooftops.
The basilica’s unique gargoyles are modeled after Ecuadorian animals like iguanas and armadillos, adding a whimsical touch.
Though construction began in the late 19th century, the basilica remains an important part of Quito’s cultural heritage and a must-see for visitors.
Exploring Quito’s Historic Center
Quito’s historic center is one of the largest and best-preserved in the Americas. A UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site since 1978, it lies about 25 km south of the equator.
Visitors can explore the charming cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and bustling plazas. Key sights include the towering domes of La Compañía de Jesús church, the grand Presidential Palace, and the lively Plaza de la Independencia.
With its vibrant markets, cafes, and artisan workshops, the historic center offers a glimpse into Ecuador’s rich cultural heritage.
Wandering through this well-preserved district is a highlight of any visit to Quito, providing a deeper understanding of the city’s history and contemporary vitality.
The Gondola Ride Experience
One of the highlights of this Quito Old Town tour is the gondola ride, which offers visitors a scenic journey high above the city. The gondola, known as the Teleférico, is South America’s highest aerial cable car system, reaching an impressive elevation of 4,100 meters (13,450 feet). During the 15-minute ride, guests are treated to breathtaking vistas of Quito’s historic center, the towering Andes mountains, and the dramatic volcanic landscape that surrounds the city. The gondola experience is a must-do activity that provides a unique perspective and a chance to appreciate the stunning natural beauty that makes Quito such a captivating destination.
| Gondola Specifications | ||
|---|---|---|
| Elevation | 4,100 meters | 13,450 feet |
| Ride Duration | 15 minutes | |
| Capacity | 6 passengers per cabin |
Visiting the Equatorial Line
Typically, the equatorial line, or the Equator, is one of the top attractions included on this Quito Old Town tour. Visitors will have the chance to stand on the exact point where the Northern and Southern hemispheres meet, marked by a monument and plaques.
This is a unique opportunity to experience being in two different hemispheres at the same time. The Equator site also features interactive exhibits that demonstrate the effects of the Coriolis force, which causes the direction of water to swirl differently in the Northern and Southern hemispheres.
Guests can even perform experiments to see this phenomenon for themselves, making for a truly engaging and educational stop on the tour.
Insights Into Quito’s History
As one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in South America, Quito boasts a rich and fascinating history that’s woven through the fabric of its colonial architecture and cultural traditions.
The city’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a glimpse into Quito’s past as a key hub of the Inca Empire and subsequent Spanish colonial rule.
Visitors can explore the ornate churches, plazas, and narrow streets that have witnessed centuries of political, social, and religious change.
From the iconic Basilica del Voto Nacional to the vibrant indigenous markets, Quito’s history comes alive, providing a deeper understanding of Ecuador’s cultural legacy.
Tour Logistics and Details
The Quito Old Town Tour offers an immersive experience for visitors to explore the city’s rich heritage. The tour includes round-trip hotel transport, a local driver/guide, and admission to the top attractions.
Highlights of the tour include:
- Visiting the Basilica del Voto Nacional, the largest neo-Gothic basilica in the Americas.
- Exploring the UNESCO-listed Quito Old Town, one of the largest and best-preserved historic centers in the Americas.
- Riding the highest gondola in South America for scenic views.
- Exploring the Equator, located just 25 km from Quito.
The tour is offered as a full-day experience, with food and drinks not included. Gratuities are optional, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start.
Traveler Reviews and Ratings
According to the information provided, travelers have largely positive reviews of the Quito Old Town Tour.
The tour boasts a 4.5 average rating from 20 reviews, with 16 of those being 5-star ratings. Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides, flexibility, and cultural insights provided during the tour.
However, there are a few outliers, with two 1-star reviews included in the breakdown.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Activities?
Yes, the tour can be customized to include additional activities. Travelers can discuss options with the tour provider to personalize the experience and explore more of Quito’s attractions based on their interests and preferences.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes are recommended. Guests should dress in layers, as the weather can change throughout the day.
Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?
The tour generally allows unrestricted photography, but visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting the experience for others. Some sites may have specific rules or restrictions that the guide will explain.
Can the Tour Be Booked in Other Languages Besides English?
The tour can be booked in multiple languages, including Spanish, German, and French. Guests should inquire about language options when making their reservation to ensure they receive a guide who speaks their preferred language.
What Is the Cancellation and Rescheduling Policy for the Tour?
The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Guests can reschedule the tour as needed, subject to availability.
Quito Old Town Tour With Gondola Ride and Visit to the Equator
“Great guide for Quito experience. Paola was a great guide around Quito and the Intinan Equator Museum which is exactly on the equator. We saw all t…”
Recap
Quito’s Old Town tour offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural wonder. From the breathtaking views atop the gondola to the interactive exhibits at the Equator, this immersive adventure showcases the city’s rich heritage and awe-inspiring landscapes. Visitors can expect an unforgettable journey through Quito’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, where stunning architecture and charming cobblestone streets paint a vibrant picture of Ecuador’s capital.
