Quito

Bike tours

Cotopaxi and Quilotoa are two of Ecuador's most famous and stunning natural attractions, both located in the Andes Mountains. They offer visitors unique experiences and breathtaking views of volcanic landscapes. Here's a comparison of Cotopaxi and Quilotoa: Cotopaxi: Volcano: Cotopaxi is an active stratovolcano and one of the highest active volcanoes in the world. It reaches an elevation of 5,897 meters (19,347 feet) above sea level. National Park: Cotopaxi is part of the Cotopaxi National Park, which covers a vast area surrounding the volcano. The park is a protected area known for its diverse ecosystems and outdoor activities. Outdoor Activities: Cotopaxi National Park offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, trekking, mountain climbing, horseback riding, and birdwatching. Climbing to the summit of Cotopaxi is a popular challenge for experienced mountaineers. Scenery: The landscape around Cotopaxi is characterized by highland grasslands, paramo ecosystems, and glaciers. The volcano's iconic snow-capped peak is a symbol of Ecuador's natural beauty. Access: Cotopaxi is located about 50 kilometers (31 miles) south of Quito, making it relatively accessible from the capital city. Quilotoa: Lake and Caldera: Quilotoa is a water-filled caldera formed by the collapse of a volcano. The Quilotoa Crater Lake is a stunning emerald green color, attracting visitors from all over the world. Location: Quilotoa is located in the Cotopaxi Province, around 200 kilometers (125 miles) south of Quito. It is part of the Quilotoa Loop, a popular trekking route through the Andean highlands. Hiking and Trekking: The Quilotoa Loop offers trekkers a chance to explore rural Andean villages and experience the local culture. Hiking down to the Quilotoa Lake and back up is a challenging but rewarding experience. Scenery: Quilotoa's surroundings are characterized by rugged landscapes, traditional villages, and the striking emerald-colored lake within the caldera. Cultural Experience: The Quilotoa region is home to indigenous communities, offering visitors opportunities for cultural immersion and interaction with locals. Both Cotopaxi and Quilotoa offer travelers unique experiences and stunning vistas of Ecuador's volcanic landscapes. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or someone interested in local culture, visiting both attractions will provide an unforgettable journey through the Andean highlands.

The "Middle of the World" refers to a location in Ecuador where the Equator, the imaginary line that divides the Earth into the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, passes through. Ecuador, as the name suggests, is one of the few countries in the world that is named after an equator line. There are two main places in Ecuador associated with the Equator: Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World Monument): This is one of the most famous sites related to the Equator and is located about 26 kilometers (16 miles) north of Quito, the capital of Ecuador. The Mitad del Mundo complex includes a monument marking the Equator, as well as a museum and various other attractions. The monument is a large structure that serves as a popular tourist spot for visitors to take photos and participate in various experiments demonstrating the effects of being at the Equator. However, it's important to note that modern GPS technology has determined that the actual Equator line is a few hundred meters north of the monument. Still, it's a fun and educational place to visit. Intiñan Solar Museum: Located nearby the Mitad del Mundo complex, the Intiñan Solar Museum claims to be situated precisely on the Equator line, as determined by GPS technology. It offers a range of interactive exhibits and experiments, such as balancing an egg on the head of a nail and demonstrating the Coriolis effect, which supposedly shows water swirling in different directions on either side of the Equator. While some of these experiments have been criticized for not being entirely accurate, the museum provides an entertaining and educational experience. The Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve is a unique natural attraction located in Ecuador, near Quito. It is known for its stunning volcanic crater, which is one of the few inhabited volcanic craters in the world. Here's some information about the Pululahua Crater: Formation and Geography: The Pululahua Crater was formed by the collapse of a volcano approximately 2,500 years ago. The resulting crater has a diameter of about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) and is characterized by its steep, fertile walls. The name "Pululahua" is derived from the Kichwa language and means "cloud of water," which is a reference to the frequent cloud cover that blankets the crater.

Explore Baños de Agua Santa on a day trip from Quito, a town nestled in Ecuador's Tungurahua province, renowned as a tourist haven. Unwind at the famed hot springs, abundant in mineral goodness. Witness the dynamic Tungurahua Volcano, enhancing the already dramatic scenery. Visit renowned waterfalls like Pailon del Diablo and Cascada de Agoyan. Discover the iconic Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Agua Santa. Swing at the End of the World at Casa del Árbol for a panoramic valley view. Baños de Agua Santa beckons nature lovers and explorers, offering breathtaking adventures in a picturesque setting.

Embark on a fun and relaxing tour experience as you explore Quito on a double-decker bus. See more of the city in less time, visit famous locations and enjoy informative commentary from an audio guide along the way. The itinerary includes the highlights of Quito, including its historic city center, the largest in South America. Stop at Panecillo Hill, and enjoy panoramic views from the most important lookout in Quito. Enjoy a memorable ride through the city and take great photos from the top of the bus.

Visit Cotopaxi National Park in Ecuador’s Andes Mountains. The park is home to the active Cotopaxi volcano that towers 19,642 feet above sea level. When you reach the park your naturalist guide will show you the exceptional variety of flora and fauna. Hike to the Limpiopungo lagoon, located on the slopes of the volcano. Stop at the lagoon for a short rest to take in the landscapes and the spectacular views of the volcano. Continue the hike to the Jose Ribas shelter and experience the environment at almost 16,000 feet above sea level.

First when you meet your guide, will give you some recommendations and your adventure will begin there, the points you will visit are: • Basilica of the National Vow (exterior), largest neo-Gothic church in Latin America, with its very striking gargoyles • “Camilo Egas” Art Museum, and learn about the indigenous people • Ñucanchi Shop, shopping time with Ecuadorian liquor tasting • Tasting of Canelazo, traditional Quito drink; with or without alcohol you decide • Archbishop's Palace, where we will taste the famous Mistelas, ice cream, and unique sweets. • Plaza Grande, Cathedral, Government Palace, where you will learn about the history of the city and the country • Visit the traditional García Moreno street or Seven Crosses, the most touristy street in the historic center • The Church of the Company of Jesus (outside) or also called the golden church • Former Central Bank of Ecuador (outside), we will talk about why we use dollars? • Place to eat Quito's famous empanadas • Plaza de San Francisco de Quito and its church, you will learn about its history as the origin of craft beer in South America • Tasting of Ecuadorian chocolate while we enjoy the panoramic view of the San Francisco de Quito church. Don't think twice and get to know the city of Quito in a unique and spectacular way... Chulla vida...!! (Yolo)

Our adventure to the Middle of the World begins, picking up our tourists in their respective lodgings and then we head through the streets of Quito, knowing its neighborhoods and its people, its mountains and snow-capped mountains, until we arrive at the Complex of the Middle of the World. This place has several restaurants where you can find roasted guinea pig, borrego, canelazo and many more traditional food. The Complex has several places such as museums, stores, a train for a short ride, the monument, a planetarium and many more places. We will visit the Mirador Ventanillas located in the crater of the Pululahua Volcano, the second volcano with an inhabited crater in the world. We finish our tour leaving the tourists in their lodging or in the place of their choice.

Our staff will receive you with a sign with your name in the hall of the Mariscal Sucre International Airport in the city of Quito, to transfer you to your accommodation location informed in your reservation. This tour lasts approximately 45 minutes, crossing some of the valleys that border the city of Quito. On this journey you will have recommendations so that you can enjoy your trip and your stay in the city. Our service is provided in a fleet of vehicles equipped with the necessary comforts and highly qualified personnel, to provide you with a Unique, safe and efficient travel experience.

Get ready to live a unique adventure in the Middle of the World. Our tour is a hop on hop off service, which means you can get off at each stop, enjoy as long as you want, and then continue your tour. All with a single ticket. Stops: Naciones Unidas Boulevard - Quito Tour Bus first stop Departing from the United Nations Boulevard, you will be able to see the northern part of the city of Quito, the old airport, the traditional neighborhood of Cotocollao, Pomasqui and San Antonio de Pichincha. Intiñan Museum: Explore ancient cultures and be amazed by experiments that only work on the equator. Here, science and fun meet. Middle of the World City: Discover the famous equator line, where you can be in two hemispheres at the same time. Take a photo in this iconic place and feel the magic of being in the center of the planet. Finally return to Naciones Unidas Boulevard

*Discover the syncretism of religious architecture with indigenous symbols. *Learn the history of the conquest and its various processes in the city of Quito. *Observe the geography of the city and its connection with astronomy. *Learn about the Kichwa language and its culture. *Try to recognize the cultural traits of Ecuadorians *Discover Inca vestiges around the city *Recognizes the Andean cultures that live and work in the historic center *Enjoy tastings of chocolate, toasted corn and typical drinks *Includes -Guide -Tastings *Does not include -Personal expenses -Tips