Quito, Ecuador

Things to do

Quito:

  • Middle of the world (equator)
  • Historic city center
  • Mercado Artesanal la Mariscal
  • Basilica del Voto Naciona
  • Secret Garden Hostel Quito

Day trips:

  • Quilotoa Crater
  • Volcán Chimborazo (would take 2 days to summit)
  • Volcán Cotopaxi (would be an overnight hike but could also just do a day trip to see if weather permits)
  • Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve has an assortment of jungle lodges for all budgets. Such tours of Cuyabeno depart from Lago Agrio (or nearby), accessible from Quito by bus or flight. Expect to pay about $100 per day for such tours, inclusive of meals and accommodation.
  • Montañita is a fun-loving surfing town full of reggae vibes. It’s a party spot too and a popular stopover on Ecuador’s backpacking trail

 

The Waterfall Route from Baños to Puyo (biking trip)

  • many stops along the way, with viewpoints, waterfalls, ziplines, and other adventure pursuits
  • using bikes rented in Baños ($5-$10

 

Also the swing at Casa del Arbol in Baños

  • The Casa del Arbol swing costs $1 and is accessible by bus ($1), shuttle van ($5), or even a 3-hour hike from Baños