Ecuador’s high altitude capital
Quito
At 2,850 metres, Quito is the second-highest capital city in the world. The natural landscape lends an easy beauty, but the UNESCO-designated historic city centre is not to be missed. At 2,850 metres, Quito is the second-highest capital city in the world. The natural landscape lends an easy beauty, but the UNESCO-designated historic city centre is not to be missed.
Why Quito?
Quito’s Old Town is said to be the best-preserved historic centre in the Americas. Experts believe humans have lived here for 8,000 years, though the Quito of today largely dates back to 1541 when the Spanish arrived. Quito’s centre was the very first World Heritage Site (alongside Krakow, Poland) as it is largely unchanged from when it was first built. There’s much to see here including the Carondelet Palace and the Metropolitan Cathedral – it’s an obvious starting point for a city tour.
Don’t miss views over Quito from the peak of El Panecillo, and be sure to take a walk through Metropolitano, the largest urban park in South America. For exciting nightlife and dining, check out Quito's La Mariscal district.
Don’t miss views over Quito from the peak of El Panecillo, and be sure to take a walk through Metropolitano, the largest urban park in South America. For exciting nightlife and dining, check out Quito's La Mariscal district.
- One of two original UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- The second-highest capital city.
- Incredibly well-preserved city centre.
- Vibrant green spaces.
- Great viewpoint on El Panecillo.
- Lively nightlife and restaurant scene.
Best Places to Stay in Quito
Casa Gangotena Hotel
Originally dating from the 18th century, Casa Gangotena was rebuilt in the 1920s following a fire and therefore has a distinctly Art Deco feel. An aristocratic and elegant place that feels intimate and personal, it is the ideal base for exploring Quito.
Mama Cuchara
As the location of a plot to assassinate the president in 1875, this hotel near the centre of Quito is, without doubt, a historic and cultural gem. You will love the arty vibe, and relish the rooftop views.
Illa Experience
The charm of Hotel Illa Experience is that it is a small and personal space where guests are enthusiastically encouraged to engage with the fascinating artistic inhabitants of the neighbourhood. You are also in the same building as one of Quito’s most renowned restaurants.
Private Journeys Tailored to You
We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been crafting the finest tailor-made holidays to the world’s wild places. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you every time.We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been crafting the finest tailor-made holidays to the world’s wild places. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you every time.
Who are Journeysmiths?
An experienced team of well-travelled individuals, passionate about crafting journeys that are as exceptional as they are personal, while maximising our positive impact on the places in which we work.
Why Travel With Us?
While the evolution of travel and technology has seen much change at Journeysmiths over the years, our fundamental beliefs about the perfect holiday have not.
Positive Impact Mission
Journeysmiths mission is to inspire and expand peoples horizons through exceptional travel experiences, while preserving the natural world for future generations.
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