Things to do in Quito, Pichincha Province: The Best Bus Tours

April 1, 2022 Brain Ambrose

With a rich pre-Colombian history, Ecuador's capital was founded on the ruins of an Incan city but offers everything a modern traveler might need. It remains the least-altered historic center in Latin America and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Quito’s important sites include baroque gems like San Francisco and Santo Domingo monasteries, as well as La Compañía church and college. This huge city sprawls across a breathtaking Andean valley surrounded by volcanic peaks.
Restaurants in Quito

1. Papallacta Thermals Pools (PRIVATE Day Trip from Quito)

Ecuador Local Guide
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5.0 based on 4 reviews

Visit the village of Papallacta and spend the enjoying a number of customizable activities at one of the most beautiful thermal hot springs Resort and Spa in this area. Take in the beautiful scenery of the Andes Mountains on a hike and enjoy a relaxing time at the thermal water that have been certified for its medicinal properties that guarantee health benefits.

Inclusions: Private transportation, English speaking guide, English Speaking Driver/Guide for tours based from 1-3 passenguers, Bottle of water, Visits as mentioned above

Exclusions: Lunch (Available to purchase with addtional cost), Entrance fees (Available to purchase with additional cost 25 usd per person or it can be paid directly), Personal expenses

Reviewed By Tina S

We needed a rapid Covid test within 72 hours of our flight back to the US. Guanguiltagua Expeditions to the rescue!! Dennis and team helped Us get the test from a private lab that came to our condo in Cuenca and we Received results the very next day! Great experience and great service!

2. Quito City Tour Including Teleférico and Horse Ride in Pichincha Volcano

Latin Adventures
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

Get to know this World Heritage UNESCO site on horseback, for a full-day tour riding for almost 3 miles in the Andes, with a great view of Quito surrounded by volcanoes.

Inclusions: All activities, Certified English/Spanish speaking guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transport by private vehicle, Admission fee Teleferico and La Compañia Church, Horses

Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified, Tips

Reviewed By Bretekiel

We had a great day trip from Quito to Cotopaxi with our guide Daniel. He picked us up from our hotel on time at 8am and drove expertly to Cotopaxi taking a scenery road which allowed us to appreciate the geography of the inter-valley region. The drive took about 1.5 hours. His approach takes you around the volcanoes from all angles. Daniel was truly passionate about Ecuador and very knowledgeable about wildlife and vegetation of the region. He stopped plenty of times for awesome picture opportunities. We hiked from the parking lot (15K ft) to the refuge (16K ft) doing the zig-zag approach and experienced no issues with altitude sickness whatsoever (he stopped by a kiosko where we could buy coca candy and leaves if needed before entering the park). The weather was awful as we ascended, with small hail and dust from the strong winds, but he was patient and set the pace perfectly for us to successfully reach the refuge. We grabbed hot chocolate up in the refuge (2.5 per cup, bring change) and warmed up before going back down. On our way back to Quito, we stopped by an authentic local restaurant around 3pm where we had a soup, a pork dish, and an ice cream. Back to the hotel by 5pm promptly. This is a great experience for a Quito escapade which you should consider if you're looking to do something based off the city.

3. Mindo Cloud Forest - Full Day

Magic Bean, Mariscal Foch E5-20, Quito 170143, Ecuador Real Dreams Tour Operador
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Visiting The Cloud Forest of Mindo is a good opportunity to have contact with nature, and it is so close to Quito City (2 hours). Located in the northwest of the Cordillera of the Andes, creates the best environment for birdwatching, and other activities like hiking to the waterfall in the Nambillo Reserve, enjoying the butterflies farm, tasting the favor of chocolate, and for the intrepid people taking the Zipline, or just having the good Cafe of that Place. Itinerary: • Meeting Point in Magic Bean, La Mariscal, Mariscal Foch E5-20, Quito 170143, Ecuador at 6h45 AM • Visit Butterfly • Walk to the Nambillo waterfall • Zipline Activities • Chocolate Factory • Coffee Museum • Return to Quito

Inclusions: Lunch

Exclusions: All Fees and Taxes

Reviewed By Ygor L

I had a great experience with the Quilotoa tour! Mainly due our amazing guide Pedro in Quito! He was just incredible! He knew pretty much everything about the history, culture and people of Ecuador! My friend made lots of questions and he answered all of them with minimum details and with a perfect English!!! Pedro was so patient with us, he didn’t rush us at all, he made lots of stops so we could take pictures, and of course, every stop he gave us lots of information about the place! Just what we look for on a guide! We now want to go for other tours and will make sure we’ll have him as our guide again! It was a great experience and it was worth every penny! Thank you again Pedro!

4. Cultural Tour of Otavalo: Market and Cuicocha Lagoon visit all inclusive

Juan Leon Mera Y Mariscal Foch, Quito 170143, Ecuador El Barak Ecuador Travel
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

- All Inclusive: Professional Bilingual Guide, Lunch and Tourist Visits. - Tourist Transport from Quito - Otavalo - Quito - Trekking - Visit indigenous market - Visit Ponchos Square - Visit San Pablo Lake Viewpoint - Visit and hiking in the Cuicocha Lagoon - Visit to Cotacachi, known for the elaboration of leather goods - Professionalism and Quality of Service - Shared Tour: Every Tuesday and Saturday - Private Tour: Every day.

Inclusions: Professional Tourism Guide, Tourist visits, Lunch, Private transportation

Exclusions: Breakfast, Tickets, Personal expenses

Reviewed By Malejavr12

I had a very good hike with them. They took you from Baños to Chimborazo in a van, and from the first refuge you walk 50 minutes to get to the Condor Cocha Lagoon. The guide is very promptly and kind, he answered every question I had. The downhill was so good. The guide is near you in the van just in case. Highly recommended.

5. Quilotoa Laguna Daytour

CarpeDM Adventures, José de Antepara, Quito 170136, Ecuador CarpeDM Adventures
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5.0 based on 16 reviews

This full day cultural tour begins with a visit to local indigenous market at either Saquisilli (Thursdays only) or Pujili (Sundays only).  The drive to Laguna Quilotoa – an amazing emerald lagoon inside a volcano crater at the height of approximatetly 3,800 m – displays a beautiful view of the Andean mountains, passing the ancient canyon of Zumbahua and many indigenous towns and farmlands.  The trip through the villages of the area provide a fantastic chance to see one of the most authentic parts of the country. Before lunch we visit a local indigenous home where you have the opportunity to interact with the locals. Prepare yourself for a taste of cultural and hiking.

Inclusions: What’s Included:, Transport, Guide, Lunch

Exclusions: What’s Not Included:, Additional Snacks / Beverages, TIPS, Breakfast

Reviewed By RichardA4235

Could not recommend more highly! We were in Quito and did a day trip to Mindo. Our guide, Alex, was amazing. He was a wealth of information and went far out of his way to show us everything we wanted to see. We zip-lined, went to the butterfly museum, did a chocolate tasting and learned how cocoa beans become chocolate. We also did a cable and hike to a waterfall. We really wanted to hit the equator museum on the way back and Alex made sure we got there -- we were running behind and he called to make sure they would stay open for us. Along the way, he gave us a great sense about Ecuador. Alex even helped us order pizza on the way home . He said that "no" was not in his vocabulary and that turned out to be true. The whole operation was so easy -- they even took us to the airport on our way out. The bus was comfortable, the driver safe, and it was just overall a fabulous trip -- our favorite activity in Quito. Thank you Alex and CarpeDM!

6. Quito’s insights and flavors

Church of the Society of Jesus, García Moreno N10-43, Quito 170401, Ecuador Quito Bike Tours
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Quito’s insights and flavors Live an authentic experience! Explore Quito from a different perspective as you walk in the Historical Center visiting the dome of one of its iconic colonial churches and climbing El Panecillo Hill to see and understand the city from unique viewpoints. Discover the interior of Casa Gangotena, a wonderful early-20th century mansion as you enjoy tasting traditional snacks. We drive to Pomasqui,16 miles north of the Old Town, to learn about the fascinating culture of the Agave plant, including a taste of the Ecuadorian spirit known as Miske! History, colonial art, tradition and sophistication, local flavors and spectacular views await you.

Inclusions: Coffee and/or Tea, All Fees and Taxes, Private transportation, Cafe quiteño - Local snacks ( sweet & salty ), Certified Bilingual Guides

Exclusions: Personal Expenses, Additional drinks, Tips

Reviewed By carola_glaettli

the tour with Catalina was so great! she knows so much and we explored many different places in the historic center. thank you so much again! would the tour really recommend!

7. Baños full day tour from Quito including all entrances and activities

Quito Tour Bus
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5.0 based on 5 reviews

In just one day you will visit the main attractions of Baños, you will be able to see the Devil´s Cuadrol waterfall, the swing at the end of the world and the amazing viewpoint of the Amazon. You will travel safely with expert guides who will let you know all the attractions like a local and will take you to try the best typical food in the area. It is an adventure tour with a lot of nature and outdoor activities

Inclusions: Confirtable tourist transportation, Bilingual guide (English and Spanish), Casa del árbol entrance, Devil´s Cauldron waterfall entrance

Exclusions: Tips, Details not specified, Food and drinks, Extreme activities

Reviewed By Don J

My wife and I were fortunate to be able to take a private tour while in Quito during COVID lockdown. Our itinerary included The Museo de Sitio Intinan, the Casa de Agave distillery and museum, lunch at Panorama, and a drive through the Quito Historico Centro and up to the Mirador de Panecillo. Our tour guide, Diana, was exceptional. She had a great command of the English language, was very personable, and very knowledgeable about every place we visited throughout the day. She went above and beyond to make the day a very personal and special one for us, including taking pictures of us and for us throughout the day. Our driver, Carlos, was also wonderful. I would highly recommend this tour for anyone visiting Quito!

8. Mindo Cloud Forest

Galapagos My World
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5.0 based on 15 reviews

Immerse yourself in a thick vegetation of plants, trees and wild flowers of the Cloud Forest which is located on the edge of the Andes Western Mountain Range. Mindo is 98 km away from the Quito city. This forest is the transition zone between the highlands and the coast. The altitude ranges from 2000m (6562 ft) above sea level and 1000m above sea level (3281 feet). This natural region is located in the Protector Forest Nambillo - Mindo. The reserve covers approximately 2000 hectares almost 2000 soccer fields. In addition, Mindo is part of the ecological corridor or hotspot so called Chocoan-Darien that crossing over Ecuador to reach out Colombia. This eco-route is one of the most biodiverse and endangered habitats. Hence, this bio-diversity region is within the 10 most important eco-regions in the world.

Inclusions: An English-speaking Certified Naturalist Guide-Chauffeur, Pick up from your centrally hotel in Quito, Activities and visits according to your preference

Exclusions: Travel Insurance, Entrance cost; Hummingbird Sanctuary $5 pp, Ziplining $ 20pp, Tarabita & Waterfall Santuary $ 5pp. , Mindo´s Chocolate Tour $8 pp, Mountain Cable Car $8 pp, Orchid Farm $3 pp, Tubing $6 pp (*min 4 pax)

Reviewed By valeriavH3917KD

This day was incredible to look many mountains from the highest part of the visit. The tour guide made the trip a lot of fun. I enjoyed every thing we did. 100% recommended.

9. Baños and Upper Amazon Day Trip

Ecuador Best Tours
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5.0 based on 4 reviews

Have lots of fun on this flexible private day trip from Quito to Baños, considered one of the most outstanding Ecuadorian highlights, escorted by professional and knowledgeable local tour guides! Have a great taste of the Andes and the Tropical Rainforest from the comfort of a this fabulous excursion! Enjoy during this life experience amazing landscapes, towering waterfalls, safe adventure sports, friendly walks, and especially unforgettable memories protecting your family avoiding unnecessary crowds..!

Inclusions: Private transportation, All Fees and Taxes, Bilingual Tour Guide

Exclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Extra expenses

Reviewed By JeannePlantation

I had only one afternoon in Quito to sightsee. I contacted Ecuador's Best Tour with late notice by email and Luis replied right away. Luis has a great laid back, no worries attitude and assured me he would take care of everything and pick me up at my hotel. He arrived early to pick me up. I was thrilled to visit the beautiful Church la Compania. Luis was very knowledgeable about the history of the church and architecture. Next we visited a beautiful view of the city with the statue Virgin of El Panecillo. I only had a few hours to visit and Ecuador's Best Tours really helped me make the most of my visit. I highly recommend booking this with this company and you will be lucky if Luis is your guide. His English is extraordinary and he's just a pleasant guide to be around. I have toured many places around the would and I would say Luis was one of the best guides I have encountered. I got some great photos from my visit and hope to return someday. I would certainly use Ecuador's Best Tours again.

10. Quito City Tour, Equator Museum and Pululahua Crater

Rebecca Adventure Travel
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4.9 based on 11 reviews

This one-day cultural tour takes you to the highlights of the historical center of Quito, the capital of Ecuador. The city of Quito is also listed on the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage list. It was founded in the 16th century on the ruins of an Inca city and it stands at an altitude of 2,850 m. In the morning, you will visit Quito’s highlights, including the Panecillo, the Basilica, and the San Francisco church. You will stroll through the lovely streets and Plazas of the old town. After, you will have a local lunch “almuerzo” in the Mariscal area. Then you will drive for approximately 45 minutes to visit the Intiñan Equator Museum, located 200 meters from the Middle of the World Monument, and after that, you will have time to go to the Pululahua’s Crater. *If you would like to visit the monument of the Middle of the World, you can do it instead of visiting the Intiñan Museum for an extra cost. Please contact us for prices and let us know in advance.

Inclusions: Professional driver/ guide, Private transportation from and to Quito’s hotel (urban zone), Meals as described in the itinerary, Activities as described in the itinerary, 24/7 assistance in Dutch, English and Spanish

Exclusions: Tips for guide, Extra food and drinks

Reviewed By mbennaton

We (my husband and I ) had an amazing time in the Galapagos Islands! We did this trip at the end of October 2020 after the stressful lockdown covid months, so we were looking forward to unwind and visit for the first time the enchanted islands as our vacation. The tours designed by Rebecca Adventure were perfect and customized to our taste and needs. We visited Santa Cruz and Isabela and it was perfect because there weren't many tourists at the time due to the pandemic. We were truly impressed with all the activities, the wildlife and the services provided by our tour guides. We got to see most of the land and marine fauna that we expected, including hammerhead sharks. It was without a doubt one of the most memorable trips of our lives. We highly recommend Rebecca Adventure as your tour agency for the Galapagos and Ecuador. Biosecurity measures were very well respected on the islands, so its safe to travel! If you're looking to come to Ecuador and the Galapagos this is the time, still less tourists, the wildlife is truly impressive and besides life is short, take risks and ENJOY IT!

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