5-Day Local-Experience Itinerary: Adventure & Nightlife in Quito, Ecuador

Quito, Ecuador

5 days

City skyline
Statue of the Virgin of the Panecillo
Interior of San Francisco Church
Basilica del Voto Nacional
Plaza de San Francisco

About Quito, Ecuador

Discover the charm of Quito, Ecuador, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled high in the Andes. This vibrant city offers a unique blend of modern cosmopolitan life and rich history. Explore the well-preserved colonial center with its stunning monasteries, cathedrals, and colorful markets. Visit the iconic Panecillo hill for panoramic views or venture to the nearby Cotopaxi National Park for breathtaking landscapes and adventure activities. Indulge in local cuisine, featuring traditional dishes like ceviche and guinea pig. With its pleasant climate, friendly locals, and diverse attractions, Quito provides an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, Quito, Ecuador has something for everyone.

5-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Hiking and Historic Center Exploration

Morning

Start your day with a hike up the Pichincha Volcano. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding landscapes from the top.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Ecuadorian lunch. Try dishes like ceviche, empanadas, and locro de papa.

Afternoon

Visit the Historic Center of Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the colonial architecture, churches, and plazas.

Dinner

Have dinner at a local restaurant. Try traditional dishes like seco de chivo, a goat stew, or guatita, a potato and tripe dish.

Evening

Experience Quito's vibrant nightlife. Visit a local bar or club and enjoy the music and dance.

Morning

Visit the Middle of the World Monument, where you can stand on the equator line.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant. Try dishes like llapingachos, potato pancakes with cheese, and hornado, roasted pork.

Afternoon

Explore the Mindalae Museum, an ethnographic museum dedicated to Ecuador's indigenous cultures.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try dishes like cuy, guinea pig, or encebollado, a fish soup.

Evening

Enjoy a night out in the La Mariscal district, known for its lively bars and clubs.

Morning

Take a cable car ride up to the Cruz Loma lookout for panoramic views of the city.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant. Try dishes like fritada, fried pork, or churrasco, a beef dish.

Afternoon

Visit the City Museum, which showcases the history and culture of Quito.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try dishes like tigrillo, a plantain dish, or yapingacho, a potato and cheese dish.

Evening

Experience the nightlife in the Plaza Foch, a popular spot for bars and clubs.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the El Panecillo hill, home to the iconic Virgin of Quito statue.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant. Try dishes like ceviche, a seafood dish, or locro de papa, a potato soup.

Afternoon

Explore the La Carolina Park, a large urban park with a botanical garden, a lagoon, and sports facilities.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try dishes like seco de pollo, a chicken stew, or llapingachos, potato pancakes with cheese.

Evening

Experience the nightlife in the La Floresta district, known for its trendy bars and clubs.

Morning

Visit the Basilica of the National Vow, a large neo-Gothic church with stunning views of the city from its towers.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant. Try dishes like empanadas, a pastry filled with meat or cheese, or encebollado, a fish soup.

Afternoon

Explore the Itchimbia Park, a large urban park with a cultural center and panoramic views of the city.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try dishes like cuy, guinea pig, or fritada, fried pork.

Evening

End your trip with a night out in the La Mariscal district, known for its lively bars and clubs.

Attractions in Itinerary (9)

Pichincha Volcano

1
Pichincha Volcano

An active stratovolcano in the country. It's two highest peaks are a popular spot for hiking.

Attractions
Landmarks
Tours
Historic Center

2
Historic Center

The Historic Center of Quito is one of the largest and best-preserved historic centers in the Americas. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is full of colonial monuments and architectural treasures.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Neighborhoods
Middle of the World Monument

3
Middle of the World Monument

A monument marking the equator, with a museum about indigenous cultures.

Attractions
Monuments
Mindalae Museum

4
Mindalae Museum

An ethnographic museum that offers a deep dive into Ecuadorian culture, showcasing the country's rich and diverse indigenous heritage.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Cruz Loma

5
Cruz Loma

Cruz Loma is a viewpoint located at an altitude of 4100 meters, offering panoramic views of Quito and the surrounding Andean peaks. It is accessible via a cable car ride, which is one of the highest aerial lifts in the world.

Attractions
Landmarks
El Panecillo

6
El Panecillo

El Panecillo is a hill located in the heart of Quito. It is known for its statue of the Virgin Mary and offers panoramic views of the city.

Attractions
Landmarks
La Carolina Park

7
La Carolina Park

La Carolina Park is a large urban park in the center of Quito. It offers a variety of recreational activities, including sports fields, a botanical garden, and a lake for paddle boating.

Parks
Sports
Attractions
Basilica of the National Vow

8
Basilica of the National Vow

A Roman Catholic church located in the historic center of Quito, notable for its neo-Gothic architecture and status as a national monument.

Attractions
Religious Sites
Architecture
Itchimbia Park

9
Itchimbia Park

A beautiful urban park offering panoramic views of Quito, often hosting cultural events.

Parks
Attractions

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Ceviche

Ceviche

A popular dish in coastal regions of Latin America, particularly in Quito, Ecuador. It is typically made from fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices, such as lemon or lime, and spiced with chili peppers, onions, and cilantro.

Locro de Papa

Locro de Papa

A rich, hearty potato soup that is a traditional Ecuadorian dish. It's typically served with avocado and cheese, making it a staple comfort food in Quito.

Hornado

Hornado

A traditional Ecuadorian dish, particularly popular in Quito. It is a slow-roasted pork dish usually served with potatoes and corn.

Empanadas de Viento

Empanadas de Viento

These are Ecuadorian cheese empanadas that are fried until crispy and served sprinkled with sugar. They are a popular snack in Quito.

Seco de Chivo

Seco de Chivo

A traditional Ecuadorian stew made with goat meat, although it can also be made with beef or chicken. It is a popular dish in Quito, often served with rice and fried plantains.

Encebollado

Encebollado

A fish soup that is considered a national dish of Ecuador. It is particularly popular in Quito, where it is often eaten as a hangover cure.

Canelazo

Canelazo

A traditional Andean drink made from aguardiente (a sugar cane alcohol), sugar, and water boiled with cinnamon. It is particularly popular in Qito during the colder months.

Guatita

Guatita

A traditional Ecuadorian dish made from potatoes and tripe stewed in a peanut sauce. It is a popular comfort food in Quito.

Churrasco Ecuatoriano

Churrasco Ecuatoriano

A traditional Ecuadorian dish consisting of a grilled steak, served with a fried egg, rice, fries, salad, and ripe plantains. It is a popular dish in Quito.

Morcilla

Morcilla

A type of blood sausage that is a popular food in Quito. It is often served grilled with a side of potatoes.

Chicha de Jora

Chicha de Jora

A traditional Andean drink made from fermented corn. It is a popular drink in Qito, often consumed during festivals and celebrations.

Tortillas de Maíz

Tortillas de Maíz

These are traditional Ecuadorian corn tortillas. They are a staple food in Quito, often served with meals or used to make empanadas.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Quito, Ecuador is during the dry season, which runs from June to September. During these months, you can expect less rainfall and clearer skies, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, Quito has a fairly consistent climate year-round due to its location on the equator, so it's possible to enjoy your visit at any time of the year. Just keep in mind that the city is located at a high altitude, so the sun can be quite strong despite the cooler temperatures.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

February 12

Mon

Carnival

February 13

Tue

Carnival

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

May 3

Fri

Day off for Labor Day / May Day

May 24

Fri

The Battle of Pichincha

August 9

Fri

Day off for Independence Day

August 10

Sat

Independence Day

October 9

Wed

Independence of Guayaquil

October 11

Fri

Day off for Independence of Guayaquil

October 31

Thu

Day off for All Souls' Day

November 4

Mon

Day off for Independence of Cuenca

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Quito's public bus system is extensive and covers most areas of the city. Buses run frequently and are a cost-effective way to get around. However, they can be crowded during peak hours and may not be the most comfortable option.

Taxis are plentiful in Qito and can be hailed from the street, called by phone, or booked through a hotel. They are metered, so the fare is determined by the distance traveled. Taxis are a convenient and relatively inexpensive way to get around.

Private car hires, or chauffeur services, are available in Quito. This can be a more comfortable and convenient option, especially for longer trips or for those who prefer not to navigate Quito's busy streets themselves.

Ridesharing services, such as Uber, are available in Quito. This can be a convenient option, as you can book and pay for your ride through the app. However, availability can vary depending on the time and location.

Quito is a bike-friendly city with many dedicated bike lanes and bike rental services. Cycling can be a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city. However, be aware that Quito's hilly terrain and high altitude can make cycling more challenging.

Many of Quito's attractions are located in the city center, which is compact and walkable. Walking is a great way to explore the city at your own pace, but be aware that Quito's high altitude can make physical exertion more tiring.

Renting a car can give you the flexibility to explore Qito and the surrounding areas at your own pace. However, driving in Quito can be challenging due to heavy traffic, narrow streets, and aggressive driving habits of some locals.

Quito's tram system, known as the Metrovia, is a modern and efficient way to get around. It covers several key areas of the city and runs frequently. However, it can be crowded during peak hours.

Several companies operate tour buses in Qito, offering hop-on hop-off services that cover major tourist attractions. This can be a convenient way to see the sights, especially for first-time visitors.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency$ USD

Time zoneUTC-5

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 131; Fire: 102; Police: 101

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type B

Voltage120 V

Things to know about Quito, Ecuador as a first time visitor

1

Quito is located at a high altitude (around 9,350 feet or 2,850 meters), so it's common to experience altitude sickness. Take it easy for the first few days to acclimate.

2

The currency in Ecuador is the U.S. dollar, so there's no need to exchange money if you're coming from the United States.

3

Quito has a fairly consistent climate year-round, with daytime temperatures typically in the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit (15-24 Celsius) and nighttime temperatures in the 50s Fahrenheit (10-15 Celsius).

4

Spanish is the official language of Ecuador, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

5

Taxis are inexpensive and plentiful in Quito. Make sure the driver uses the meter to avoid overcharging.

6

Quito is generally safe, but like any large city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying expensive items.

7

Ecuadorian food is diverse and delicious. Try local specialties like ceviche, empanadas, and locro de papa (a traditional potato soup).

8

Quito's tap water is not safe to drink. Always opt for bottled water.

9

Public restrooms are not always readily available, and when they are, you may need to pay a small fee to use them.

10

Quito is in the same time zone as Eastern Standard Time in the U.S., but they do not observe daylight saving time.

11

Quito has a modern public transportation system, including buses and a metro. However, they can be crowded during peak hours.

12

Ecuador has a strict policy against drug trafficking. Even small amounts of drugs can lead to severe penalties.

13

Ecuador uses the type A and type B plug. The standard voltage is 120 V and the standard frequency is 60 Hz.

14

Tipping is customary in Ecuador. A 10% service charge is often added to restaurant bills, but it's customary to leave a little extra if the service was good.

15

Quito has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars and clubs staying open until the early morning hours.

16

Ecuador has a strong tradition of handicrafts. Look for locally made textiles, ceramics, and jewelry.

17

Quito is a great base for exploring other parts of Ecuador, including the Amazon Rainforest, the Galapagos Islands, and the Andes Mountains.

18

Quito has a number of excellent museums and cultural institutions. Many are free or have a small entrance fee.

19

Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its well-preserved colonial architecture.

20

Ecuador has a diverse ecosystem, so pack accordingly if you plan to visit different regions. You'll need everything from warm clothing for the mountains to lightweight, breathable clothing for the rainforest.

Basic Spanish to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Hola

O-la

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Adiós

A-dee-os

Leaving someone

Please

Por favor

Por fa-vor

Making a request

Thank you

Gracias

Gra-see-as

Expressing gratitude

Yes

See

Agreeing or confirming

No

No

No

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Perdón

Per-don

Getting someone's attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

Lo siento

Lo see-en-to

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

¿Hablas inglés?

Ab-las in-gles

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

No entiendo

No en-tee-en-do

When you don't understand what's being said

Where is the bathroom?

¿Dónde está el baño?

Don-de es-ta el ban-yo

Asking for the bathroom

How much does it cost?

¿Cuánto cuesta?

Kwan-to kwes-ta

Asking the price of something

I would like...

Me gustaría...

Me gus-ta-ree-a

Making a request or order

Help!

¡Ayuda!

A-yu-da

In an emergency or needing assistance

Can I have the menu, please?

¿Puedo tener el menú, por favor?

Pwe-do te-ner el me-nu, por fa-vor

At a restaurant

Water

Agua

A-gwa

Asking for water

Beer

Cerveza

Ser-ve-za

Ordering a beer

Wine

Vino

Vee-no

Ordering wine

Check, please

La cuenta, por favor

La kwen-ta, por fa-vor

Asking for the bill at a restaurant

Good night

Buenas noches

Bwe-nas no-ches

Saying goodbye in the evening

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing for warm days

  • Warm clothing for cool nights

  • Rain jacket or umbrella

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Swimsuit (if planning to visit hot springs or pools)

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Sunglasses

  • Underwear and socks for 5 days

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-size shampoo and conditioner

  • Travel-size body wash or soap

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • First aid kit including band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any necessary medication

  • Prescription medications (if applicable)

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or other form of ID

  • Credit and/or debit cards

  • Cash (both in your home currency and some in Ecuadorian dollars)

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and/or accommodation information

  • Emergency contact information

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Power adapter (Ecuador uses 110-volt, 60-cycle electricity, same as the US)

  • Camera (if not using phone camera)

  • Charger for camera

  • Headphones

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow for the flight

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Snacks for the flight

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Travel guidebook for Ecuador

  • Spanish-English dictionary or phrasebook

  • Notepad and pen

  • Backpack or daypack for daily excursions

Weather Conditions

Quito, Ecuador, is located right on the equator, which means it enjoys a fairly consistent climate year-round. The city is known for its "eternal spring" weather, with average temperatures typically ranging between 50°F (10°C) and 70°F (21°C) throughout the year. However, despite its equatorial location, Quito is also at a high altitude, which can cause the weather to be quite variable. It's not uncommon to experience all four seasons in a single day. Mornings can be sunny and warm, followed by afternoon rain showers, and then cool evenings. When packing for your trip to Quito, it's best to prepare for a range of weather conditions. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended for the warm daytime temperatures, but you'll also want to pack a rain jacket or umbrella for the frequent afternoon showers. Don't forget warm clothing for the cool evenings and nights, including a jacket or sweater. Sun protection is also crucial in Quito due to its high altitude and proximity to the equator. The sun's rays are much stronger here than at lower altitudes, so be sure to pack a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of high-SPF sunscreen. Finally, keep in mind that Quito's high altitude can affect some people, causing symptoms such as shortness of breath, headaches, and nausea. It's a good idea to take it easy for the first few days to allow your body to adjust to the altitude. Staying hydrated can also help alleviate some of these symptoms.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

21° / 9°

January is the wettest month in Quito, with frequent rain showers. Despite this, temperatures remain mild to warm, making it a good time for indoor activities and exploring the city's rich history.

February

21° / 9°

February continues the rainy season, with slightly less precipitation than January. The temperatures are similar to January, providing a comfortable climate for sightseeing.

March

22° / 10°

March sees the end of the rainy season, with decreasing precipitation and slightly warmer temperatures. This is a great time to explore Quito's outdoor attractions.

April

22° / 10°

April is a transitional month in Quito, with a mix of rain showers and sunny days. The temperatures remain warm, offering pleasant conditions for outdoor activities.

May

22° / 10°

May marks the beginning of the dry season in Quito, with less rainfall and more sunny days. This is an excellent time to visit for outdoor adventures and exploring the city's parks.

June

22° / 10°

June is one of the driest months in Quito, with plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures. This is a perfect time for hiking, bird watching, and other outdoor activities.

July

21° / 9°

July is another dry month in Quito, with cool nights and warm days. This is a great time to visit for those who enjoy comfortable temperatures and outdoor activities.

August

21° / 9°

August continues the dry season, with mild temperatures and less rainfall. This is an ideal time for sightseeing and exploring Quito's historic sites.

September

21° / 9°

September is a transitional month, with the dry season ending and the rainy season beginning. Despite the increasing rainfall, temperatures remain mild, making it a good time for indoor and outdoor activities.

October

21° / 9°

October is the start of the rainy season in Quito, with frequent showers. However, the temperatures remain mild to warm, providing a comfortable climate for sightseeing.

November

21° / 9°

November continues the rainy season, with regular rain showers. Despite this, temperatures remain mild, making it a good time for indoor activities and exploring the city's rich history.

December

21° / 9°

December is a wet month in Quito, with frequent rain showers. Despite the rainfall, temperatures remain mild to warm, making it a good time for indoor activities and exploring the city's Christmas festivities.

Did you know?

Did you know that Quito is the second highest capital city in the world, standing at an altitude of around 2,850 meters (9,350 feet)?

1 of 10

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