Get ready to experience authentic South American colonial and indigenous culture as you explore the world’s second-highest capital city, Quito! Here, a wealth of historical patrimony has made this dynamic city a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the Old Town, a casual stroll through the colonial plazas will take you to impressive cathedrals like the San Francisco Church and Convent and La Compañía (with a completely gold-leaf interior). You'll also see the Carondolet Presidential Palace and the commanding gothic cathedral, La Basilica del Voto Nacional. Keeping watch over the city is the aluminum monument of La Virgen de Quito on Panecillo Hill. And a short drive from here will bring you to the monument marking the geographic middle of the world. Quito also makes a great starting point for Andes, Galapagos, & Amazon tours.
El Panecillo – Named for its bun-shape, this hill overlooks the entire city of Quito, offering a fantastic panorama. It's also home to the renowned monument to the winged "Virgin of Quito," which keeps watch over the whole city.
Palacio Carondolet & the Plaza Grande are in the historical center of the city and serve as the seat of the government.
The TeleferiQo is a cable car that zips travelers to the top of the mountain, where you can breathe in the brisk highland air.
La Basilica del Voto Nacional is a marvel of gothic architecture and perhaps the most recognizable church in South America with its intricately carved towers and gargoyles.
San Francisco Convent, La Compañía Church, & El Sagrario are other impressive churches that highlight Quito's colonial center.
Cotopaxi Volcano – Just outside the city is the strikingly symmetrical, snow-capped Cotopaxi Mountain, an active volcano that is great for hikers of all levels.
Otavalo is undoubtedly the biggest and most well known artisan market in all of South America, where you can find brilliantly colorful tapestries, hand-carved wooden sculptures, leather goods, and a variety of other beautiful handicrafts.
Friendly and professional interactions. Answered my questions and followed up on initial contact.
Tim Elliott
2 days ago
Adventure Life has been an extraordinary travel resource for us over the years and today was no exception. Our River Cruise booking was handled by Jess (who has been our personal trip planner for several years) the same day as our inquiry. Suggestions were given for cabin choice and pre-trip options (that were not shown on the cruise line's website) like airport transfers and prepaid gratuities. Trip insurance recommendations followed and we were assigned a travel co-ordinator till the end of the tour. All we have to do is show up! Great service from friendly folks.
APtravelwell
3 days ago
My representative Kevin was very responsive generally and in crafting our itinerary to our specific priorities.
Rocco Labella
3 days ago
Although there was a lot of paper work, I received help and guidance when I needed it.
Donna Kirby
4 days ago
Our travel was flawless! The rider pickup (airport, hotel, ship) was seamless. Jane's recommendation for Emerald Cruise Sakara was everything I wanted but the experience was soooo much more. Adventure Life took care of each and every detail and this was the easiest of all my travels.