The Original Quito City Tour in Trolley With Hotel Pick-Up – Small Group

Explore the captivating colonial and modern neighborhoods of Quito on an intimate and engaging 3-hour city tour. Aboard a classic trolley, you’ll witness the city’s rich history and culture, from the iconic Plaza Grande to the breathtaking Panecillo Mirador. With hotel pickups available and a maximum of 10 travelers, this small-group experience promises a personalized adventure that showcases the best of Ecuador’s vibrant capital. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn about Quito’s UNESCO-listed charm. What secrets and hidden gems await your discovery?

Key Points

• A 3-hour guided tour that takes travelers through Quito’s colonial and modern neighborhoods using a traditional tram.
• Key landmarks visited include Plaza Grande, Basilica of the National Vow, and La Ronda Street.
• Complimentary hotel pickup from select locations and a maximum group size of 10 for an intimate experience.
• Panoramic views from Panecillo Mirador and optional local ice cream available at an additional cost.
• Recommended for first-time visitors to Quito, providing acclimatization to the high altitude through a balanced tram and walking tour.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Original Quito City Tour offers visitors a traditional tram experience through the city’s colonial and modern neighborhoods, showcasing its key highlights.

The tour includes stops at iconic landmarks like the Plaza Grande, the Basilica of the National Vow, and the charming La Ronda Street.

Travelers can enjoy panoramic views from the Panecillo Mirador and indulge in local ice cream, though at an additional cost.

On Mondays, the tour features the Changing of the Guard at the Presidential Palace.

The guided experience lasts approximately 3 hours and accommodates a maximum of 10 travelers, providing an intimate and engaging exploration of Quito’s rich history and culture.

Pickup and Meeting Details

Pickup and meeting details for the Original Quito City Tour include complimentary hotel pickup from select locations like Hilton Colon, Mercure Alameda, and Reina Isabel. The main meeting point is at Holiday Inn Express Quito starting at 8:30 AM.

A professional guide is included throughout the tour, though gratuities, food, drink, and entry fees to churches are not. Travelers should confirm their booking details and aim to arrive on time, as the tour departs promptly.

The experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. Situated near public transportation, the Quito City Tour is an ideal way for first-time visitors to explore the city’s main historical sites and acclimatize to the altitude.

Tour Itinerary and Duration

The Original Quito City Tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with a maximum of 10 travelers exploring the city’s colonial and modern neighborhoods.

It begins at the Basilica del Voto Nacional, where guests spend 15 minutes taking in the architectural grandeur before heading to the iconic Panecillo Mirador for panoramic views over the next 25 minutes.

The tour then visits:

1. Iglesia y Convento de San Francisco for 15 minutes.

2. Plaza de la Independencia (Plaza Grande) for 20 minutes.

3. Fundacion Iglesia de la Compania for 20 minutes.

The final stop is the lively Calle La Ronda, where travelers enjoy 40 minutes exploring the charming street.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Included in the tour price are hotel pickups from select locations, such as Hilton Colon, Mercure Alameda, and Reina Isabel, as well as a professional guide to lead the experience.

However, entry fees to churches, food, drinks, and gratuities aren’t covered.

Travelers will meet at the Holiday Inn Express Quito at 8:30 AM, where the tour will depart.

Throughout the 3-hour tour, visitors will explore Quito’s colonial and modern neighborhoods, including the Basilica of the National Vow, Plaza Grande, and La Ronda Street.

While panoramic views from Panecillo Mirador and local ice cream are highlights, these come at an additional cost.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 10 travelers and isn’t wheelchair accessible, with infants required to sit on laps.

Traveler Feedback and Ratings

Travelers have rated the Quito City Tour in Trolley 4.0 out of 5 based on 88 reviews, highlighting the knowledgeable guides and engaging experiences.

Positive remarks centered on the tour’s balanced approach of riding and walking, the informative historical insights, and the overall value for money.

However, some travelers noted the need for more clarity regarding entry fees and the limited time allocated at certain sites.

The tour is recommended for first-time visitors to Quito as it allows them to:

1. Acclimatize to the city’s high altitude.

2. Explore the main historical sites.

3. Get an overview of the colonial and modern neighborhoods.

Accessibility and Transportation

The tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible, and infants must sit on laps during the journey. However, the tour’s proximity to public transportation makes it easily accessible for most travelers.

The meeting point at the Holiday Inn Express Quito is conveniently located, and hotel pickup is available from select hotels like the Hilton Colon, Mercure Alameda, and Reina Isabel. This provides a hassle-free start to the tour, allowing you to focus on the rich historical and cultural experiences ahead.

Whether you opt for hotel pickup or make your own way to the meeting point, the tour’s accessibility ensures that you can learn about the sights and sounds of Quito’s colonial and modern neighborhoods with ease.

Confirmation and Arrival

Once you book the tour, you’ll receive confirmation at the time of booking. This ensures you have all the necessary details to arrive at the right place and time, whether you choose to be picked up from your hotel or make your own way to the meeting point at the Holiday Inn Express Quito.

The tour’s meeting time is 8:30 AM, so be sure to arrive on time.

The tour includes the following:

1. Hotel pickup from select hotels like the Hilton Colon, Mercure Alameda, and Reina Isabel.

2. A professional guide who’ll lead the tour and provide historical insights.

3. Admission fees to certain sites aren’t included, so be prepared to cover those costs separately.

With the confirmation details in hand, you can confidently embark on your Quito city tour adventure.

Suggested Travelers and Acclimatization

Typically, the Quito City Tour is suggested for first-time visitors to the city, as it allows them to acclimatize to the high altitude and explore the main historical sites.

The 3-hour tour provides a balanced experience of riding the traditional tram and walking through key landmarks. Guests can take in panoramic views from the Panecillo Mirador and enjoy local ice cream, though these are at an additional cost.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. However, it’s conveniently located near public transportation, making it easy for travelers to access.

With knowledgeable guides and engaging experiences, the Quito City Tour is an excellent introduction to Ecuador’s vibrant capital.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

No, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour is designed for a maximum of 10 travelers, and bringing pets would not be accommodated. Only service animals are permitted to join the tour experience.

Are There Photo Stops Along the Tour Route?

Yes, the tour includes photo stops along the route. Travelers can take panoramic photos from the Panecillo Mirador, which offers scenic views of Quito. Other notable photo opportunities are at Plaza Grande and La Ronda Street.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour duration can be extended, but this would incur additional costs. Travelers interested in extending the tour should inquire with the tour operator about available options and pricing prior to booking.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Specific Sites?

While the standard itinerary is set, it’s possible to customize the tour to visit specific sites of interest. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the tour operator to create a personalized experience within the available time frame.

Do the Guides Offer Options for Lunch or Snacks?

The tour guides do not offer options for lunch or snacks during the tour. However, they can provide recommendations for local eateries and cafes near the sightseeing locations where travelers can enjoy Ecuadorian cuisine and refreshments at their own expense.

Recap

The Original Quito City Tour in Trolley offers an immersive and personalized experience for small groups, showcasing the city’s colonial and modern landmarks.

With panoramic views, hotel pickups, and a blend of riding and walking, this tour is ideal for first-time visitors to explore Quito’s rich history and culture.

Travelers can expect a comprehensive and accessible tour, with positive feedback from previous participants.