Old Town Quito’s historical tours pack impressive value, featuring some of Ecuador’s most significant colonial treasures. The UNESCO World Heritage site’s walking tours stand out as the best way to experience centuries-old churches, plazas, and architecture. Tours of the Basilica and Cathedral offer fascinating insights into religious art and Spanish colonial influence, while the Intiñan Museum effectively explains Ecuador’s indigenous heritage.
I especially love the small-group walking tours through the historic center – they’re intimate and allow time for photography and questions. The half-day tours hit the perfect sweet spot, covering major sites without exhaustion.
Let’s explore the most rewarding historical tours in Quito:
Key Points
- Quito offers a range of historical and cultural tours covering key landmarks like Intiñan Museum, Basilica, Cathedral, and UNESCO-listed monuments, with prices starting at $84 per person.
- Tailored tours provide comprehensive insights into Quito’s history and culture, including visits to significant sites like Independence Plaza and La Compania de Jesus.
- Guided city and historical tours explore the historic center, Panecillo Hill, and colonial heritage with small group sizes and professional bilingual guides.
- Specialty tours like the Golf Cart Tour offer accessible and unique experiences, such as a bike ride and relaxation at natural hot springs.
- Tours emphasize interaction with nature and local wildlife, featuring highlights like the Andean condor, spectacled bear, and Laguna Quilotoa.
Antisana Volcano Birding & Natural History Condor Tour Private, All Included
The Antisana Volcano Birding & Natural History Condor Tour offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning natural wonders of Ecuador’s Andes.
This private, all-inclusive tour is highly recommended, with a 100% satisfaction rating from 38 reviews. Priced from $185 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, lunch, and entrance fees.
Highlights include observing the majestic Andean condor, spectacled bear, giant hummingbird, and aquatic species at Mica Lagoon. The certified, bilingual naturalist guide provides extensive knowledge of the local wildlife.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour involves some walking on irregular terrain, making it suitable for most travelers.
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Private Quito City Tour, Historical Center, Equator Museum, and Pululahua Crater
For travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Quito, the Private Quito City Tour offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the city’s rich history and remarkable natural wonders.
Recommended by 100% of travelers, this full-day private tour highlights UNESCO-listed monuments, the Equator Line, and the Pululahua Crater.
Visitors will marvel at the panoramic views from Panecillo Hill, embark on a walking tour of Quito’s Old Town, experience the Equator Line at the Intiñan Museum, and explore the cloud forest within one of the world’s inhabited craters.
With a personalized guide, customizable itinerary, and included lunch, this tour provides a comprehensive and unforgettable glimpse into the wonders of Quito.
Read our full review: Private Quito City Tour, Historical Center, Equator Museum, and Pululahua Crater Review
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City Tour in Quito. Muffin, Cable Car, Historic Center and Middle of the World
Quito’s City Tour offers travelers an engaging and comprehensive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks. The tour includes key highlights like the historic city center, the Middle of the World monument, and a thrilling cable car ride offering panoramic vistas.
With a private vehicle and personalized itinerary, the tour maximizes one’s time in Quito. Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides, who provide valuable insights, and the seamless logistics that eliminate the need for public transport.
Positive reviews highlight the tour’s ability to showcase Quito’s top attractions in a single day. Accessible to most, the tour is an efficient and enjoyable way to experience the best of Ecuador’s capital.
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Cultural Tour Otavalo, Cotacachi, Cuicocha and San Pablo Lagoons
This cultural tour offers a captivating exploration of Ecuador’s northern highlands, taking visitors on a journey through the vibrant Otavalo Market, the artisan town of Cotacachi, and the serene Cuicocha and San Pablo Lagoons.
At $65 per person, the tour includes lunch, breakfast, private transportation, and a bilingual guide. Customers praise the experience, with a 4.8 rating from 21 reviews and a 95% recommendation rate.
The tour departs from Quito at 7 am and returns to the same meeting point, with a maximum group size of 18 travelers.
Wheelchair accessibility is limited, but strollers are allowed, and infants can sit on laps.
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Cultural Tour of Otavalo: Market and Cuicocha Lagoon Visit All Inclusive
Explore the vibrant Otavalo Market and the serene Cuicocha Lagoon on this comprehensive cultural tour. With 14 glowing reviews from travelers, this all-inclusive experience offers a professional guide, private transportation, meals, and admission fees.
Highlights include visits to the Equator, Museo Solar, and indigenous textile workshops, plus a scenic hike around the Cuicocha Lagoon. Guests rave about the knowledgeable and engaging guides, the variety of activities, and the opportunity to immerse in local culture.
Wear layers and bring cash for market purchases. For the fullest experience, consider visiting on a Saturday. Flexibility in the itinerary ensures a rich understanding of Ecuadorian history and traditions.
Read our full review: Cultural Tour of Otavalo: Market and Cuicocha Lagoon Visit All Inclusive Review
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Cultural Tour Laguna Quilotoa: Hiking and Descent to the Lagoon All Included
Frequently, travelers flock to the mesmerizing Laguna Quilotoa, a breathtaking crater lake nestled in the Andes mountains.
On this cultural tour, you’ll hike and descend to the lagoon’s edge, led by a knowledgeable guide. The tour includes private transportation, meals, and entrance fees, though personal expenses aren’t covered.
While a moderate fitness level is required, an option to ride a horse is available. Some travelers noted additional community donation fees.
The tour’s highlights include interacting with indigenous families and exploring the local market, in addition to the stunning Quilotoa Lagoon.
With rave reviews, this tour offers an immersive cultural experience in the heart of Ecuador.
Read our full review: Cultural Tour Laguna Quilotoa: Hiking and Descent to the Lagoon All Included Review
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Quito Old Town; Flavors, Colors and History in a Private Tour
A private tour through Quito’s Old Town promises a captivating exploration of the city’s flavors, colors, and rich history. Rated 5.0 from 9 reviews, this private tour offers a personalized experience, with private transportation, a driver guide, and inclusions like lunch, snacks, and entrance tickets.
Flexibility is key, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour and the option to reserve now and pay later. Pickup is available from hotels or the airport, with options for wheelchair and stroller accessibility.
This tour is suitable for most travelers, providing a unique opportunity to take in the heart of Quito’s cultural heritage.
Read our full review: Quito Old Town; Flavors, Colors and History in a Private Tour Review
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Quitos Heritage & Volcano View Private Tour
Visitors seeking to enjoy Quito’s rich cultural heritage and witness the breathtaking vistas of the Andes can embark on the Quitos Heritage & Volcano View Private Tour.
This highly rated 5-star experience explores the city’s historic landmarks, including the Santo Domingo Domes and Basilica del Voto Nacional, as well as the Pululahua volcano.
The tour includes private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, lunch, and admission fees. Priced at €76.98 per person, the tour offers free cancellation and a lowest price guarantee.
Travelers can select a pickup point and start time of 9:00 am, with confirmation received at booking. This private tour format ensures an exclusive experience for your group.
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Private Famous Food Tour of Historic Old Town in Quito
Foodies can embark on an immersive culinary adventure through Quito’s historic Old Town with the Private Famous Food Tour.
This half-day excursion showcases the region’s diverse flavors, offering a 5.0-rated experience. For $95 per person, guests enjoy a private tour with a bilingual guide, hotel pickup, and a sampling of local delicacies like quesadillas, ceviche, and goat stew.
The tour also includes a coffee tasting and optional Canelazo cocktail. Travelers praise the guide’s expertise and the opportunity to visit iconic eateries.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most visitors seeking an authentic taste of Quito’s gastronomic heritage.
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Quito, Latitude and Heritage
Situated at an elevation of over 9,000 feet, the city of Quito occupies a unique position on the equatorial line, bestowing it with a remarkable latitude and heritage.
This private tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore Quito’s historic old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. At $60 per person, the tour includes roundtrip pickup, bottled water, and a delightful lunch and dinner.
With a 5.0 rating from 6 reviews, the tour is wheelchair accessible and available on select days throughout the year. Guests must have a moderate level of fitness, as the tour involves walking.
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Full Private Tour of the Historic Center + Middle of the World
This full-day private tour takes visitors on an immersive exploration of Quito’s historic center and the famous Middle of the World site.
Travelers will be picked up in a private Chevrolet Grand Vitara and transported to the city’s key landmarks, including the Intiñan Museum, Basilica, and Cathedral.
Lunch and all entrance fees are included in the $84 per person price. The tour provides a rundown of Quito’s rich history and cultural heritage.
With attentive and patient guides, the experience is tailored to first-time visitors. Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, and participation isn’t advised for those with heart problems or serious medical conditions.
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Golf Cart Tour in Quitos Historical Center
Explore Quito’s rich history and iconic landmarks aboard a convenient golf cart tour.
This half-day excursion from the city takes you on a 20km bike ride with stunning views of Cotopaxi mountain.
After your ride, unwind with a relaxing soak at the Termas del Volcan Ilalo natural hot springs.
The tour includes a delicious lunch and a local bilingual guide to provide insights along the way.
Available daily with a maximum of 6 travelers, the experience is wheelchair accessible but not recommended for those with certain medical conditions.
With a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation, this tour offers a hassle-free way to discover Quito’s historical treasures.
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Visitors can join a shared tour of Quito’s historic center, exploring the city’s iconic landmarks in small groups of up to 10 travelers.
The tour starts at 8:30 am from designated meeting points and includes tourist transport, a bilingual guide, and entrance fees to the Church of the Company and the Basilica.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s conveniently located near public transportation.
Reviews are mixed, with praise for the knowledgeable guide but also reports of last-minute cancellations.
Travelers should note that tips aren’t included, and infants must sit on laps.
Read our full review: Shared Tour of the Historic Center of Quito in Small Groups Review
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Half-Day Quito City Tour Visiting Historical Center and Panecillo
A half-day Quito city tour takes visitors on an exploration of the UNESCO-listed historic center and the iconic Panecillo Hill.
The tour visits key landmarks like Independence Plaza, the Cathedral, Presidential Palace, La Compania de Jesus, and San Francisco Square.
Travelers will enjoy 360-degree panoramic views from the top of Panecillo Hill.
The tour includes round-trip hotel transportation, a bilingual guide, and entrance fees to some churches.
Visitors are advised to dress in layers, wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring small bills for tips and entrances.
With an overall 5.0 rating from previous travelers, this tour offers an informative and enjoyable experience exploring Quito’s rich history and architecture.
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Private Sightseeing Tour Historic Centre Quito
Quito’s UNESCO-listed historical center comes alive on this private sightseeing tour, where travelers explore the city’s rich colonial heritage.
Accompanied by a professional bilingual guide, guests explore significant landmarks like the colonial churches and squares.
The tour also includes a visit to El Panecillo, a hill crowned by a winged statue of the Virgin of Quito.
Pickup and drop-off at centrally located hotels are provided, and entrance fees are covered.
With a moderate fitness level required, the half-day tour offers wheelchair and stroller accessibility, making it suitable for a range of travelers.
Reserve now and pay later for added flexibility.
Read our full review: Private Sightseeing Tour Historic Centre Quito Review
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Sum Up
Quito offers a range of historical tours that showcase its colonial architecture, cultural heritage, and natural wonders. From guided city tours to outdoor adventures, visitors can explore the city’s rich history and diverse landscapes. Whether you’re interested in birding, visiting the equator, or discovering local markets, there’s a tour to suit every interest and budget. With so many options, travelers can easily find the best historical experience in Quito.