Quito Overview

Overview

Quito is an amazing city: historic, important, interesting and by all accounts of travellers, really quite safe (despite what your guide book might tell you). The capital of Ecaudor, the 2 million inhabitants live about 2800m above sea level in a valley formed by the surrounding volcanos making the city incredibly long compared to its width. Public transport is good but basic and taxi services are excellent. The city is a UNESCO world heritage sight thanks to its beautifully preserved colonial architecture, and the history of the city can be found in the interesting Museo de la Ciudad (City Museum). The main historical sites are all with easy walking distance of each other, The Plaza de la Independecia being the centre, where you can find the Presidential Palace and the Cathedral. A taxi to the statue of the Virgén de la Panecillo on the hillside overlooking the town offers amazing views, while the city is ideally placed for reaching all the highlights of the small country of Ecuador. Otavalo´s indigenous market (Saturdays) and La Mitad del Mundo (the equator line and museum)are both within easy reach of a day trip from the city. The climate, despite being so near the equator, is relatively cool due its height, but the sun is strong and while the city experiences significant rainfall, it is never cold. It is worth leaving some time for acclimatisation in Quito if you are coming from a low altitude: most people recover in 2-3 days, ask your doctor for advice on how to reduce this.