Quito Oldtown: A Cultural-Gastro Walking Tour and Shopping

Quito’s Oldtown is a UNESCO-listed gem that beckons visitors to enjoy a captivating blend of culture and gastronomy. This walking tour promises an engaging experience, guiding you through the historic streets while you savor delectable local delicacies and uncover the rich narratives that have shaped this vibrant city. From iconic architectural marvels to charming plazas brimming with artisanal goods, the tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Quito’s vibrant tapestry. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply seeking a memorable adventure, this tour is sure to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the enchanting Oldtown.

Key Points

1. This 4-hour walking tour offers a cultural and gastronomic experience in Quito’s UNESCO-listed Oldtown, including food tastings and a visit to the Basilica del Voto Nacional.

2. The tour includes a certified guide, breakfast/lunch, and entry fees, providing an immersive journey through Quito’s architectural and artistic heritage with engaging storytelling.

3. Highlights of the tour include empanadas, chocolate, liquor, and ice cream tastings, as well as exploration of the Museo Camilo Egas and significant corners of the Oldtown.

4. Highly recommended for food lovers and those seeking interactive cultural experiences, with an average rating of 5.0 from 18 reviews and a 100% traveler recommendation rate.

5. The tour starts at Parque Gabriel García Moreno and concludes at Yumbos Chocolate in Plaza de San Francisco, allowing for chocolate tastings and browsing of artisanal shops.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Quito Oldtown Walking Tour offers a cultural-gastro experience, showcasing the city’s rich history and local flavors. This highly-rated tour, with a 100% recommendation from travelers, takes visitors on a 4-hour journey through the UNESCO-listed Oldtown of Quito.

For $39.92 per person, groups of up to 15 can explore the historic landmarks, savor local delicacies, and enjoy the vibrant culture. The tour includes a certified guide, food tastings, and a stop at the iconic Basilica del Voto Nacional.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this experience is flexible and perfect for those seeking an engaging way to discover Quito’s old town.

Inclusions and Tastings

Alongside the guided exploration of Quito’s Oldtown, the tour includes a variety of culinary tastings that allow visitors to savor the local flavors.

Travelers can expect to indulge in empanadas, chocolate, liquors, ice cream, and more as they make their way through the historic streets.

The tour is led by a certified guide who provides context and insights into the cultural significance of the foods.

Breakfast or lunch is also included, ensuring visitors are well-fed throughout the experience.

Gratuities and entry/admission fees to sites like the Basilica del Voto Nacional are covered, making this a hassle-free way to experience Quito’s gastronomy and heritage.

Cultural and Historical Stops

As part of the Quito Oldtown walking tour, visitors explore several cultural and historical sites that provide insights into the city’s rich heritage. The tour includes a stop at the Basilica del Voto Nacional, a Neo-Gothic church and prominent symbol of Quito, where travelers can spend approximately 30 minutes admiring the architecture (admission not included). Plus, the group visits the Museo Camilo Egas, which showcases the artistic legacy of the renowned Ecuadorian painter, with a 20-minute exploration of the gallery (admission is free). The tour also includes additional stops at significant corners of the old town, where the guide shares historical insights with the group.

Site	Duration	Admission
Basilica del Voto Nacional	30 minutes	Not included
Museo Camilo Egas	20 minutes	Free
Other historical corners	Varies	N/A

Tour Experience and Reviews

Travelers have expressed overwhelmingly positive feedback on the Quito Oldtown walking tour, with an average rating of 5.0 out of 18 reviews.

The tour’s highlights include:

• Fun and engaging activities like walking, eating, and culture

• Insightful historical storytelling and personal touches from the knowledgeable guide, Kevin

• A balanced experience that combines local gastronomy with in-depth exploration of the city’s rich cultural heritage

Reviewers appreciated the tour’s ability to provide a unique and memorable way to learn about Quito’s past.

The combination of hands-on experiences, expert commentary, and delicious local delicacies has made this walking tour a must-do for those seeking an immersive and enjoyable way to discover the charms of Quito’s old town.

Traveler Recommendations

The Quito Oldtown walking tour comes highly recommended for those wanting to learn about the city’s rich culture and history.

Combining local gastronomy with engaging historical insights, it provides an immersive and enjoyable way to explore the charms of Quito’s old town.

Food lovers and travelers seeking an interactive experience will particularly appreciate this tour.

Reviewers praised its balance of activities, from walking and eating to cultural engagement.

The knowledgeable and friendly guide ensures a personal touch, making the tour both informative and fun.

Whether you’re interested in architecture, art, or simply experiencing Quito’s vibrant atmosphere, this walking tour is an ideal way to discover the highlights of the city’s historic center.

Meeting Point and End Location

The walking tour begins at Parque Gabriel García Moreno, near the iconic La Basílica church, providing a convenient and easily accessible meeting point for participants.

After an engaging exploration of Quito’s old town and its cultural and culinary highlights, the tour concludes at Yumbos Chocolate in Plaza de San Francisco. This final stop invites travelers to:

• Indulge in delectable chocolate tastings, showcasing the rich flavors of Ecuadorian cacao.

• Browse the charming artisanal shops and boutiques in the lively plaza.

• Reflect on the wealth of experiences and insights gained throughout the captivating walking tour.

The seamless start and end points ensure a well-rounded and cohesive experience for all who embark on this immersive journey through Quito’s old town.

Duration and Group Size

The walking tour lasts approximately 4 hours, providing ample time to thoroughly explore Quito’s old town while indulging in local culinary delights.

With a maximum group size of 15 travelers, the experience offers an intimate and personalized exploration of the city’s cultural and historical highlights.

This small group size ensures travelers receive personalized attention from the certified guide, who can tailor the tour to suit the interests and pace of the group.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the duration and group size of this tour allow you to learn about Quito’s rich heritage and savor the flavors of its vibrant gastronomy at a comfortable and engaging pace.

Cancellation Policy and Pricing

With a flexible cancellation policy, travelers can reserve this walking tour with confidence – they can receive a full refund up to 24 hours before the experience begins.

As for pricing, the tour starts from $39.92 per person, with the final cost varying based on group size. Offering both affordability and convenience, this Quito Oldtown walking experience provides an excellent value for the immersive cultural and culinary exploration it delivers.

Some additional details on the pricing and cancellation policy:

• Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the tour start

• Group size maximum of 15 travelers

• Pricing adjusts based on the number of participants in the group

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour may not be fully wheelchair accessible as it involves walking through the old town. Travelers with mobility concerns should contact the tour operator to inquire about accessibility accommodations before booking.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Dietary Requirements?

The tour can be customized for dietary requirements. The guide is accommodating and can adjust the tastings to cater to vegetarian, vegan, or other dietary needs upon request. This ensures all travelers can fully participate and enjoy the experience.

What Is the Recommended Attire for the Tour?

The recommended attire for the tour is comfortable, casual clothing suitable for walking. Participants should wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes as the tour involves extensive walking through the historic streets of Quito’s old town.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

The tour has no age restrictions, welcoming participants of all ages. Children are welcome, though the tour’s duration and content may be more suitable for older travelers. Guests should inquire about any special accommodations for younger participants.

Can I Bring My Own Camera or Are Photos Prohibited?

Participants are generally welcome to bring their own cameras on the tour. Photos are not prohibited, as the tour encourages capturing the cultural and historical sights. However, guests should be mindful not to disrupt the group or guide’s experience.

Recap

This Quito Oldtown tour offers a captivating blend of culture and culinary delight.

Visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed historic district, savor local delicacies, and discover artisanal treasures, all while gaining insights from a knowledgeable guide.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour provides a comprehensive and engaging experience to truly appreciate Quito’s vibrant heritage and gastronomic offerings.