Must See

What are some must-see sites in Quito, Ecuador?

My best friend and I are planning on visiting Quito for 10 days in January. What are some of the must-see sites (tourist and non-tourist)? Also, how will the weather be like in January there? Any advice about traveling to and within Quito? Is it safe for two female travelers?

Of course you’ve got to go to Mitad del Mundo, which marks the site of an expedition to mark the equator. Great photo ops as you straddle the equator, shake hands across the line, etc.

Old Quito is very cool. Stroll around the Plaza Independencia, go through the old churches (especially Monasteria San Francisco and La Compania de Jesus — incredible places!)

Visit La Basilica del Voto Nacional and do the guided tour that takes you up into the rafters over the church, climb the belfries, etc. Great views of the city from up there!

Stroll around Parque Ejido (especially on the weekend when the artists come out to peddle their works). Next to the park is the Museo Nacional del Bancho Central. Great museum with a lot of historical pre-Colombian artworks by the Inca and their predecessors.

Also be sure to visit the Guayasamin Museum, dedicated to the talented contemporary artist (who also amassed a huge collection of pre-Colombian artworks of his own). Stroll up the hill to his magnificently stark Capilla del Hombre.

You may want to do some day trips out of Quito as well. The markets at Otavalo are popular and bird-watching trips are readily available.

As for traveling around in Quito, there’ve been on and off problems with pickpockets, petty theft, etc. Best to use taxis and not to walk at night. Use the Trole system to get around when you can (clean, modern, CHEAP). Your weather will be great. Quito has a consistently pleasant year-round climate. Although it’s at the equator, it’s also high up in the Andes so it’s pleasantly comfortable and there’s never a problem with mosquitos.

Hope this gives you a few ideas.

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