Quito Travel Tips – The Complete Guide to Visiting Quito, Ecuador

Plan a three-day stay to acclimate before heading into Quito’s historic core and markets. If you arrived on a morning flight, start with a light walk around Plaza Santo Domingo and the Panecillo view, then reserve day two for museums and day three for a high-altitude excursion. This approach helps you enjoy the city without rush.

Quito sits at a higher elevation of about 2,850 meters (9,350 feet). That physical strain shows in short climbs, so pace yourself, drink water, and take altitude breaks after sightseeing around the historic center or the hills above town. The thin air makes even easy routes feel different at first.

From the airport, an express taxi to Centro Histórico runs roughly 25–35 dollars. If you want cheaper transport, a local bus is possible but takes longer. Use official stands to avoid overcharging and keep valuables secure on crowded roads.

Budget hostels abound in La Mariscal and Centro Histórico, with beds in dorms around 12–25 dollars per night and private rooms from 30–60 dollars. Expect higher rates near peak season or on weekends. Many hostels offer free breakfast and lockers, and some organize city walks for a small fee to help you reach lagoon viewpoints and crater hikes.

A day trip to the Quilotoa crater is a classic. The rim walk reveals a blue-green lagoon in the crater, and you can descend to the inner slope if you’re up for a longer physical effort. The drive from Quito takes about 3–4 hours each way on well-maintained roads, and local guides provide trekking poles and safety tips. Bring cash for the entrance fee and tips.

For multi-day travel, a quick link to peru can fit into a larger plan. american travelers often choose hostels, which keeps costs low, while many tours quote prices in dollars for clarity. Flights between Quito and Lima (peru) take about 2–2.5 hours. Also, bring a SIM card for data and offline maps to reduce reliance on cafes for Wi-Fi.

As a result, you can cover the Historic Center, Mitad del Mundo, and nearby crater hikes in a compact itinerary. A practical note: book early for weekends, as rooms fill quickly. Before you depart, stock up on sun protection, water, and souvenirs from local artisans–this support helps communities and ensures you bring home authentic memories.

Where to stay in Quito by district for easy Old Town access

Stay in Centro Histórico for the easiest Old Town access. From here, the same plazas, churches, and museums are within a short stroll, and you can relax with a coffee on Plaza Grande. For international travelers, this area puts you in prime walking distance to major sights, and you can enjoy a full day of exploring without extra rides. Since the streets are compact, you’ll find high-value options and a straightforward rhythm for your first days – a solid base if you’re visiting for the same purpose again. Flavors in the neighborhood nod to the broader Andean circuit, with options that echo peru across markets and eateries.

La Mariscal is the most international and social district, perfect for travelers who want easy Old Town access but a lively evening scene. It offers a wide range of hotels from budget to boutique, many with rooftop terraces that are instagram-worthy. The roads are well connected by taxi and rideshare, and police patrols provide extra safety after dark. You’ll find options that fit a group of friends, with rates that let you stay months without breaking the bank. You wouldnt want to miss a sunset from a café with a view after a day of exploring.

Northern Quito around La Carolina and Quicentro offers a calmer rhythm and modern comforts. Hotels here tend to be higher priced but deliver larger rooms, fast Wi‑Fi, and easy access to shopping and green spaces. A major bonus is proximity to the teleférico for a mountain panorama; from the northern base you can ride the cable car up for views and back down, potentially twice if you want to catch both sunrise and sunset. If you prefer quiet streets with reliable service and straightforward routes to museums, this is a strong addition to your shortlist.

In addition to the two main zones, consider a stay near the Panecillo for dramatic city views, though plan shorter trips to Old Town if you’re staying outside the core. For longer visits, Centro Histórico options offer solid value with direct access to the main sights. New properties appear every few months, so check the latest update before booking. Since you’ll mostly walk during the day and take rides at night, your telefónico SIM helps keep navigation smooth, and coordinating with friends becomes simpler, which can lead to a richer Quito experience and more time enjoyed outdoors.

What to pack for Quito’s altitude and climate

Pack lightweight layers and a compact rain shell to stay comfortable from dawn to dusk.

At about 2,850 meters, Quito’s mornings are cool (roughly 8–12°C) and afternoons climb into the 18–23°C range. With that swing, base your kit on a moisture-wicking base layer, a fleece or light down mid-layer, and a windproof, water-resistant outer layer. Bring 2–3 base-layer tops, a single mid-layer, and a single outer shell; pack 3–4 pairs of socks and a spare pair of shoes for evenings or day trips. If you’re traveling twice during your stay, having a second lightweight outfit saves you laundry time and keeps you flexible.

Clothing and layering

Base-layer tops: 2–3; Mid-layer: 1; Outer shell: 1; Trousers: 2 pairs; Socks: 3–4 pairs; Hat and gloves: optional for chilly mornings; Shoes: one sturdy pair; Accessories: sunglasses, sunscreen, lightweight scarf. The sun at altitude hits hard, so protect skin and eyes; a packable hat and a sunblock stick work well for long days on city streets and viewpoints. If you’re planning a trip to guaranda or crossing high passes, add a warmer layer and thicker socks for evenings or bus rides.

Valuables, currency, and safety

Store valuables in a private pocket or a money belt; keep currency split between two spots in your bag so you’re not left with everything in one place. Always lock hotel safes and avoid flashing valuables in crowded areas. Markets are popular on saturday, so stay alert and choose reputable stalls; if you’re unsure, ask locals behind the counter for directions. In the mundo of Quito travel, heard from others that crossings near busy plazas require extra care. When you cross between neighborhoods or defuera routes, travel with a small, organized daypack that has zipper pockets. More tips flow from locals, and opportunity to save on meals comes with choosing trusted vendors at busy corners near courts.

How to get around Quito: transport options, fares, and safety tips

Recommendation: start with the Ecovía and Trole systems for the fastest, cheapest city trips, and get a rechargeable transit card at a station to save time.

Options include the Ecovía rapid transit network, the Trolebús routes, local buses, taxis, and ride‑hailing apps. A typical ride costs around 0.40–0.50 USD when you use a card; cash fares are similar but may require exact change. For longer hops, buses from major terminals cover routes to nearby towns and cities, with higher fares the farther you go. Always check the destination board and ask in advance if you’re unsure which line to take, especially if you speak only a little Spanish.

Transit cards are convenient: you can top them up at stations or authorized kiosks, and some affiliates offer discounts through partner banks or programs. If you’re unsure, look for official card readers on buses and at stations–these readers speed up boarding and reduce the need to carry loose coins. Inside crowded cars, keep your bag in front of you and your phone secured; foot traffic can get dense during morning rush hours, so plan extra time if you’re headed to a connection.

For green spaces and closer sightseeing, walking is fine in Central and Old Town areas, but avoid narrow streets at night. If you plan to go outside the core, consider a taxi from a reputable stand or a licensed app. Higher night rates apply, so calculate before you call a ride, and confirm the approximate fare with the driver. There are no universal guarantees, therefore stay alert and use well-lit routes; a good rule is to share your trip with someone you trust.

Longer trips to places like guaranda or tulcan require a longer bus ride and a different terminal. Check the schedule in advance, arrive 20–30 minutes early, and carry at least some cash in small bills. If you have a bank card with affiliate travel benefits, bring it, but have a backup card or cash just in case the card reader at a station is temporarily not working. Some buses accept cards, but many long-distance services still require cash on boarding.

Morning departures are common and often cheaper, while mid‑day trips can be quicker to book due to higher demand. If you’ve visited Brazil or other South American cities, you’ll notice Quito’s transit feels more compact and easier to navigate, which helps when you’re traveling alone or with a small group. Look for well‑marked stops, ask for help politely, and you’ll find the system practical and straightforward, even on your first day in town.

Safety tips: stay in well‑lit areas, ride only official taxis or verified apps, and double‑check the driver’s plate and name before you sit in a car. Do not display valuables openly, and keep electronics tucked away during a ride. If a fare seems suspect or a street vendor offers a “shortcut,” decline and head to a known stop instead. For added reassurance, you can ask a hotel desk or local with you to guide your first transit steps, which makes the initial move less daunting and helps you stay on track closer to your accommodation.

If you’re planning a multi‑day itinerary, factor in a little extra buffer time for connections, and maintain a simple checklist: card or cash, a charged phone with a local map, a small bottle of water, and a light snack–fruit from a market is common, and a quick bite can save you time during a busy day. Before you set out, jot down the route names, and keep the information handy in case you need to adjust on the fly; this approach takes the guesswork out of the day and keeps your journey smooth, therefore you can enjoy Quito’s sights with confidence.

Mercado Artesania Otavalo: best times to visit, must-see stalls, and bargaining tips

Arrive around 6:30–7:00 am on Saturdays to catch Otavalo’s market at its peak: the best-preserved textiles come off the loom early, and the line of vendors along the trail in centro fills quickly. The hour after sunrise reveals vivid colors, fine details, and conversations with artisans, making it ideal for travel memories and candid shots with cameras.

Must-see stalls cluster from the Plaza San Pedro outward into side lanes. Focus on textiles–ponchos, shawls, scarves, belts, and tapestries–woven with geometric patterns that endure for generations. The best-preserved examples sit alongside carved wood, beads, and leather goods. The surrounding architecture and shaded arcades frame each display, so walk the full loop and note the signs in 特许 stalls; escapingoth often marks limited runs or special editions. Check the ones in nearby stalls to compare styles and prices.

When bargaining, start around 30–40% below the listed price and stay lighthearted. whats the best price? Ask, then offer a respectful counter, and be ready to walk away if the number doesn’t feel fair. Pay with cash in small notes; it speeds the deal and keeps the rate favorable. If a vendor advertises a personal rate, compare with other ones, because past experience shows the best wins come from informed comparisons. For longer trips, check with local agencies and taxi drivers (taxistas) in centro for recommended workshops, and consider a guide like gilles who can explain craft details and fairness–definitely worth it.

Photography and handling etiquette: keep a respectful distance when textiles are shown, ask before photographing people, and limit flash near delicate fibers. Some stalls use codes like escapingoth to label limited runs–if you see it, ask what it means. Remember the concept: you’re shopping for unique work, not bulk souvenirs, so listen to the makers, compare with nearby stalls, and leave with something you value. Some travelers pair the visit with biking along the valley; it’s a nice extension.

Day trips from Quito to Otavalo Market: routes, durations, and costs

To maximize market time, take an early public bus from Carcelén Terminal or La Ofelia to Otavalo. The ride takes 2.5–3 hours and costs about 7–8 USD each way. Using Maps apps, you can access timetables and station details; this option is worth considering for the lowest costs.

Routes

• Public bus: Carcelén/La Ofelia → Otavalo. Departures start around 5:30 AM and run every 20–30 minutes. Onto the Panamericana Norte, you’ll alight near the centro Otavalo, a short walk to Plaza de los Ponchos.
• Licensed day-trip shuttle: pickup from Mariscal or Centro Quito; 2–2.5 hours in light traffic; costs 90–120 USD per person when shared by 2–4 travelers; offering a Cotacachi stop for leather goods and brief viewpoints along the way. This option provides a bit more comfort and safety.
• Private driver option: arranged through hotels in the central Quito area or from Mariscal; door-to-door service, about 2 hours driving; costs 150–230 USD for up to 4 people; stops can include Cuicocha viewpoint hikes.

Durations

• Travel time: Quito → Otavalo by bus 2.5–3 hours; the return is similar. Market time in Otavalo: 2–4 hours, depending on bargaining pace and stops; the total day takes almost 9–12 hours.

Costs and payments

• Public bus round trip: about 14–16 USD per person; cash is preferred; currency is USD; ATMs in Otavalo centro offer cash with fees.
• Group licensed tour: 90–120 USD per person; includes transport, licensed guide; some tours include a Cotacachi stop; meals not included unless stated.
• Private hotel pickup: 150–230 USD for 2–4 travelers; may include Cuicocha or Cotacachi stops; entrance fees or park costs extra.

What to see and do

• Otavalo Market at Plaza de los Ponchos; different stalls sell textiles, crafts, and jewelry; most prices are in USD and negotiable; carry cash in small denominations for quick bargaining; orange signage helps locate textile blocks in the centro.
• Meal options: caldo de gallina, fritada, or grilled trout; meals 6–12 USD; beverages 2–3 USD; water 1 USD.
• Natural stops: Cotacachi leather town for shopping; Cuicocha crater lake viewpoints, followed by a light hike along the rim; hikes take 1–2 hours and offer mountain viewpoints across the caldera.
• Safety and tips: keep valuables secured to avoid theft; travel with licensed guides; altitude symptoms can appear; hydrate and pace yourself; central Quito hotels are good starting points for pickups.

Practical notes

• Accessing routes: check Maps apps for the nearest terminal and pickup points from hotels in the Mariscal area; central Quito hotels often arrange pickups.
• Currency and payments: USD is the currency; using cash remains the simplest option; many stalls give change in dollars; plan for small bills and coins.
• What to bring: sun protection, a light jacket for mountain breezes, water, a compact backpack; a phone with offline maps helps in crowded markets.