Quito’s surroundings are a promise for travelers and explorers.

Quito and its surrounding promise places full of contrasts, tastes, culture, nature and magnificence. Live intense and unforgettable experiences in the near by places. All the destination presented are part of the offer of the travel agencies and operators which are Bureau members.

From tropical forest to perpetual snows

In less than two hours from Quito, the whimsical Ecuadorian geography offers the traveler intense and diverse experiences:

Mountain lovers will be able to explore Copotaxi, Antisana, Cayambe and several elevations in the central and northern Andes mountain range. Trekking, mountain biking, mountaineering or simply strolling acquire a unique flavor in these mountain surroundings.

Towards the northwest of Quito, in the cloud forests there are privileged secluded spots for bird watching, bathing in rivers and waterfalls, and enjoying communal tourism and canopy gliding.

In the Eastern part of Quito, towards the Amazon, it is possible to practice rafting, climbing, sports, fishing or relaxing at thermal springs.

Historic haciendas, surrounded by the most beautiful scenery in the Highlands, offer horseback ridding or multiple day horse riding trips to become immersed in the world of the “chagras”.

What is your hobby? Quito has it!

Middle of the World and Mindo: Ancestral Paths

Next to the equatorial line in the Middle of the World, travelers love to have their pictures taken straddling the equator, one foot in the northern hemisphere and the other in the southern. Towards the North West, you can find archeological remains which are the prelude to a land of cascades and marvelous birds.

Pululahua, dormant volcano

The Reserva Geobotánica Pululahua (Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve) is located a few kilometers away from one of Quito’s northern exits and extends over 13,000 hectares. This wonderful natural setting harbors a staggering amount of 1,200 plant species, plus a wide variety of birds, mammals and insects. It is a place for walking, riding bicycle, camp or ride horses.

Tulipe ceremonial centre

The site amid the cloud forest consists of various sunken structures connected to a network of aqueducts. In addition to the archeological complex, the interpretation center at the site gives a great perspective of the Yumbo people (A.D. 800 -1400) and their cosmo-vision. The journey to Tulipe takes only 1 1/2 hours from Quito.

Cloud Forest

The Geobotanical Reserve Pahuma, the Ecological Reserve Maquipucuna, Mindo and other nearby sites, make it possible to walk, swim, fish, bird watch and even take aerial cable cars. The cloud forest northwest from Quito is an area with privileged biodiversity, offering entertainment and adventure possibilities less than two hours from the urban center.

From Quito to Otavalo’s Looms next to the lake

The heartbeat of the land is evident in the abundance of different colors, textures and sensations that can be experienced when traveling just from Quito to Otavalo. The exuberant handcrafts, the presence of the Cayambe, a snowy mountain and the water in the lakes and waterfalls of the region accompany the journey.

Otavalo: Andean and cosmopolitan

A powerful Andean identity that blends with contemporary world culture makes Otavalo an exceptional place. The Plaza de los Ponchos, Otavalo’s shopping Mecca, dazzles and delights all its visitors.

Lakes and waterfalls

Close to Cayambe, the lake of San Marcos is an Andean paradise. Regattas, boat rides and delicious food make a wonderful complement for a day next to the lake San Pablo. The Peguche waterfall is a ritual space for the surrounding indigenous communities. The lake Cuicocha, which fills the crater of an extinct volcano, makes a perfect setting for a family trip.

Spas in The Andes

Elegant haciendas dating back centuries have been remodeled as fine inns to welcome travelers wanting to spend more time in this fascinating region. This area is the home to some of the finest countryside “haciendas” in Ecuador and the region.

Cotopaxi and its surroundings: The Avenue of Volcanoes

Mount Cotopaxi at 5.897 meters (19,342 feet) is the country’s most frequently climbed and visited volcano, a mere 40 miles (60 km) from Quito, famous for its year-round mountain sports opportunities. In neighboring towns and villages, arts and crafts and folk festivities, as well as haciendas- tuner-inns, keep travelers busy and happy for days.

Fairs and feast

Meet with the “chagras” of Machachi, the cowboys of Ecuador, at cattle shows and rodeos that usually start late in the afternoon and climax in a blazing bonfire. Tour the Saquisilí fair, where the region’s indigenous communities sell their produce and wares. Witness the Danzante de Pujilí, in his bright costume and headdress. The enchantment of the highlands is felt in this area just 2 1/2 hours away from Quito.

Cotopaxi, adventure under the shadow of the volcano

You can hike to and around mountains such as Mount Corazón (15,722 feet or 4.792 mt.) or the twin Illinizas (17,208 feet or 5.245 mt.), or you can trek through Cotopaxi National Park up to a crystalline lake at the foot of the volcano. There are great trails for mountain bikes and horseback riding, as well as for trekking on every compass point.

Railway escapade

The “world’s most difficult railway” begins in Quito and passes through the Cotopaxi region, on a ride that is a fairytale adventure for all travelers. It runs alongside fields, villages and humble faros, and also elegant haciendas, many of which are today inns for visitor wishing to experience country living Ecuadorian-style.

Antisana and Papallacta: From the snow to the Amazon

To the East of Quito, on a clear day, you can spot the snow-capped peaks of Mount Antisana, Ecuador’s fourth-highest volcano. Its high Andean moorlands are covered by vegetation and flowers of rare beauty. On the other side of the volcano, the flora gradually changes as one descends towards the Amazon Basin. Here, hot springs gush forth from among the folds of the mountain. Mind and body renewed, travelers head off on excursion full of adventure and nature, just two hours from Quito.

The Moorlands

When hiking, bicycling or horseback riding along Mount Antinsana’s lava beds or the middle of its forests 3,000 to 10,000 feet high, travelers can observe condors and almost half of all Ecuador’s plant species. The beauty of this rough andean scenery touches nature lovers in a special way.

Rafting and mountain climbing

If you are looking for a rush of adrenalin, the northeastern side of Quito is a secure destination. Towards the Amazon region, the Quijos river boasts World Class category for rafting, while the nearby Cuyuja challenges the best rock-climbers.

Hot springs

Cold river waters send a reinvigorating shock to skin cells, whereas the hot spring waters rising up to 37°C relax the body, enhance its circulation and eliminate harmful toxins. This cold-hot contrast is part of the treatment provided by various facilities in the area that unites Quito with Napo, one of the six Amazonic provinces in Ecuador. Its accommodation offer includes a first-rate and award winning spa and resort.