Food
Quito's culinary scene offers a delightful mix of traditional Ecuadorian fare with international flavors. Start your gastronomic adventure with Locro de Papa, a hearty potato soup garnished with cheese and avocado. Make sure to catch Fanesca, a unique soup prepared only during the Holy Week, made with twelve grains to represent the twelve apostles and fish to symbolize Jesus. The city also boasts an exciting street food culture where you can try Empanadas de Viento, large, fluffy empanadas filled with cheese.
Culture
Nestled high in the Andes, Quito's culture is an engaging blend of indigenous, Spanish, and mestizo influences. The city's abundant historical sites, lively festivals, customary music, and the amiable nature of its residents distinctly reflect its deep-rooted heritage.
Known for its colorful Fiestas de Quito, which takes place in December, locals celebrate the city's founding with bullfights, parades, and street parties. The city also thrives on music, especially Andean folk music, characterized by hauntingly beautiful notes from traditional instruments like the pan flute.
Travel Tips
- Altitude: Quito holds the distinction of being the world's second-highest capital city. It's best to take it easy on your first day to adjust to the altitude.
- Weather: Quito has a consistent spring-like climate year-round, with cool nights and warm, sunny days. Always carry a jacket.
- Currency: The official currency is the U.S. dollar. Credit cards are generally accepted, but carrying cash for small vendors is helpful.
- Safety: Quito is generally safe, but staying cautious is essential, especially after dark.
Interesting Facts
- Quito holds the honor of being the first city to receive the designation of a UNESCO World Heritage site, owing to its remarkably conserved historical core.
- Quito's official name is San Francisco de Quito, in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi.
- Due to its elevation and location on the equator, Quito experiences 12 hours of daylight 365 days a year.
Top Places
- Historic Centre of Quito: Home to impressive colonial architecture, picturesque plazas, and awe-inspiring churches like the golden La Compañía de Jesús.
- La Mitad del Mundo: A must-visit landmark where you can straddle the equator and visit the fascinating museum detailing the history and significance of the equator.
- TelefériQo: This cable car ride offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding Andean peaks.
- Museo del Alabado: This pre-Columbian Art Museum houses a stunning collection of ancient Ecuadorian artifacts.
- La Ronda: This charming, narrow street is perfect for a stroll, lined with galleries, shops, and traditional food outlets.
Beyond its status as the gateway to the Galapagos, Quito is a city enchanted with its historical charm, scenic beauty, vibrant culture, and warm people. Its rich history, delicious food, and the opportunity to stand in both hemispheres simultaneously make Quito a truly unique destination.
