Private Colonial Walk Trough the Old Town in Quito

Exploring Quito’s old town is a must for any visitor looking to enjoy the city’s rich colonial history. This private walking tour provides an engaging and informative experience, guiding participants through iconic landmarks and offering unique insights into the UNESCO-designated cultural heritage site. From the grand Basilica del Voto Nacional to the charming cobblestone streets, the tour unveils Quito’s architectural gems and historical narratives in a seamless and authentic manner. Complemented by tastings of local chocolate and craft beer, this experience promises to leave a lasting impression on those seeking to uncover the vibrant culture and heritage of Ecuador’s capital.

This experience made our list of the 8 Best Walking Tours In Quito.

Good To Know

• This private walking tour offers an in-depth exploration of Quito’s historic Old Town, showcasing its colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage.
• Highlights include visiting the Basilica del Voto Nacional, Condor Tower lookout, and stops at iconic streets and plazas to learn about Quito’s history.
• Tastings of Ecuadorian chocolate and craft beer are included, enhancing the culture.
• The tour is led by a certified guide, providing valuable insights and a personalized experience.
• Convenient transportation and gratuities are covered, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable tour.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This private colonial walk through Quito’s Old Town allows visitors to enjoy the city’s rich history and culture.

Guests will explore the Basilica del Voto Nacional, including its iconic towers and the Condor Tower lookout point. They’ll also learn about the history and significance of the La Guaragua street.

Throughout the tour, the certified guide will share insights about Quito’s designation as the First Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Included are tastings of Ecuadorian chocolate and craft beer, providing an authentic cultural experience.

With private transportation and gratuities covered, this tour offers a seamless and enjoyable way to discover Quito’s well-preserved colonial charm.

Inclusions

The tour includes a certified guide who will lead the private colonial walk through Quito’s Old Town. Travelers will enjoy a complimentary chocolate tasting, as well as bottled water throughout the experience. Private transportation is provided, and gratuities are included, ensuring a hassle-free journey. The tour’s inclusions are designed to enhance the overall experience and make it as convenient and enjoyable as possible for participants.

Inclusion	Description
Certified Guide	Leads the private colonial walk
Chocolate Tasting	Free tasting of Ecuadorian chocolate
Bottled Water	Provided for each tourist
Private Transportation	Included for the duration of the tour
Gratuities	Covered in the tour price

Itinerary and Stops

The tour begins at García Moreno Park, in front of the impressive Basilica del Voto Nacional.

Visitors will explore the Towers of the Basilica and visit the Condor Tower lookout point for 35 minutes.

Next, they’ll learn about the history and significance of the iconic La Guaragua street in Old Town, spending 20 minutes there.

The tour includes 6 more stops with historical insights along the way.

The final destination is Plaza San Francisco, in front of the San Francisco Church.

Basilica Del Voto Nacional

Visitors begin the private colonial walk at García Moreno Park, standing in front of the impressive Basilica del Voto Nacional. This 19th-century neo-Gothic cathedral is a highlight of the tour.

Guests explore the Basilica’s towers and visit the Condor Tower lookout point, providing panoramic views of Quito’s historic center. The tour guide shares insights about the Basilica’s architectural elements and its significance in Quito’s history.

Though admission to the Basilica isn’t included, this stop offers an opportunity to admire the exterior and learn about its role in the city’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

La Guaragua

From the Basilica, the tour then moves along La Guaragua, an iconic street in Quito’s Old Town.

Here, the guide shares the history and significance of this vibrant thoroughfare:

• La Guaragua was a major commercial hub during the colonial era, bustling with artisans, merchants, and locals.

• Today, the street retains its historic charm, with well-preserved colonial architecture and a lively atmosphere.

• Visitors can browse local shops, sample traditional Ecuadorian snacks, and soak in the authentic ambiance of this iconic Quito landmark.

The 20-minute stop on La Guaragua offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Additional Stops

After exploring the iconic La Guaragua, the tour continues with a series of additional stops that provide deeper insights into Quito’s colonial history.

Travelers will visit 6 more locations, each offering unique perspectives on the city’s past. From baroque churches to historic plazas, the guide shares stories and anecdotes that bring the architecture and landmarks to life.

Whether it’s learning about the significance of a particular building or uncovering little-known facts, these additional stops offer a comprehensive understanding of Quito’s colonial heritage.

The carefully curated itinerary ensures a well-rounded exploration of the Old Town’s most captivating features.

Meeting and End Points

The meeting point for the Private Colonial Walk in Quito is located at the intersection of Venezuela & Francisco de Caldas, in front of the Basilica del Voto Nacional, in the city’s historic García Moreno Park.

• The tour ends at the Plaza San Francisco, in front of the San Francisco Church, situated in the heart of Quito’s Old Town.

• This centralized location allows for easy access to public transportation and other attractions in the city center.

• Travelers will enjoy the convenience of the meeting and end points, which are within walking distance of each other and the highlights of the tour.

Reviews and Ratings

Travelers have rated the Private Colonial Walk in Quito highly, with an overall rating of 5.0 stars across 4 reviews.

Positive feedback highlights the knowledgeable guides and enjoyable experiences. Travelers appreciated the comfort and English-speaking guides.

The tour provides a comprehensive introduction to Quito’s history and its designation as the First Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Along With exploring Quito’s Old Town, the experience includes a tasting of Ecuadorian chocolate and craft beer, adding to the culture.

The tour’s inclusions, such as private transportation and gratuities, contribute to its value and convenience for visitors seeking an authentic exploration of Quito’s colonial heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Limited Mobility?

The tour is suitable for people with limited mobility, as the surfaces are accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. The itinerary includes stops with opportunities to rest, and the guide can accommodate special needs.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Fit Specific Interests?

The tour can be customized to fit specific interests. Travelers can request additional stops or modifications to the itinerary, subject to guide availability and feasibility. The operator give you a personalized experience tailored to individual preferences.

What Are the Safety Precautions Taken During the Tour?

The tour operators prioritize participant safety. They provide bottled water, ensure comfortable private transportation, and offer a certified guide to lead the group. Surfaces are accessible, making the experience suitable for most travelers.

How Long Does the Entire Tour Last?

The entire private colonial walking tour through Quito’s Old Town lasts approximately 3 hours. It includes visits to the Basilica del Voto Nacional, La Guaragua, and 6 other historical stops, with a certified guide and complimentary chocolate tasting.

Can the Tour Be Booked for a Private Group?

Yes, the tour can be booked for a private group. The itinerary and inclusions are the same, but the experience is tailored to the group’s preferences with a private guide and transportation. Pricing starts at $39 per person.

The Sum Up

This private colonial walk through Quito’s Old Town offers an immersive experience for visitors to explore the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. Guided by a certified expert, the tour takes you to iconic landmarks, providing insights into Quito’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site. With complimentary tastings of local chocolate and craft beer, this tour is a must-do for anyone looking to truly appreciate Quito’s colonial past.