Exploring the historic heart of Quito and its vibrant traditional markets can be a captivating experience. This private sightseeing tour offers travelers an immersive journey through the city’s rich cultural heritage. From admiring the architectural wonders of the colonial-era old town to browsing the bustling stalls for unique handcrafted souvenirs, the tour promises to unveil the essence of Ecuadorian traditions. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, visitors can explore the stories behind the iconic landmarks and savor the flavors of authentic local delicacies. Whether you’re a history buff or a curious cultural explorer, this tour holds the potential to leave a lasting impression.
About Your Stay
- A private guided tour focusing on Quito’s historic center and two traditional markets, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
- Key attractions visited include La Compañía Church and El Panecillo, allowing for cultural exploration and local food sampling.
- The tour is accessible for wheelchair and stroller users, with a moderate fitness level required.
- Pricing starts at $60 per person, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour.
- Positive customer reviews highlight the knowledgeable guide, comfortable transportation, and engaging cultural experiences.
Tour Overview
The private sightseeing tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Quito’s historic Centre and two traditional markets.
Guests are picked up from their centrally located hotels in the morning and embark on a journey to discover the city’s top attractions, including the Old Town and the iconic La Compaña Church.
The tour provides an opportunity to take in the local culture by sampling regional foods and shopping for souvenirs at the city’s largest markets.
Afterwards, guests are comfortably transported back to their hotels, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Quito.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour’s inclusions encompass a private guide who’s bilingual, hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as bottled purified water.
Plus, entrance fees to La Compañía Church ($5 per person) and El Panecillo ($1 per person) are covered.
Exclusions include food, drinks, tips, and personal expenses.
The tour is accessible to wheelchair and stroller users, and service animals are allowed.
A moderate level of physical fitness is required, and children must be accompanied by an adult.
The tour operates in all weather conditions, so appropriate dress is recommended.
Age and Accessibility Requirements
Recommended for travelers aged 12 and above, this private sightseeing tour in Quito is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with service animals allowed.
The tour operates in all weather conditions, so appropriate dress is recommended. Although a moderate fitness level is required, children must be accompanied by an adult.
The tour is conveniently located near public transportation, making it easily accessible for visitors.
Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of Old Town or browsing the vibrant markets, this tour offers an engaging and memorable experience for travelers of all abilities.
Pricing and Booking
The private sightseeing tour in Quito starts at $60.00 per person, with the price varying based on the group size. Guests can conveniently reserve the tour now and pay later, offering flexibility in their planning. Plus, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Pricing | Details |
---|---|
$60.00+ | Per person |
Varying | Based on group size |
Free Cancellation | Up to 24 hours before |
This comprehensive tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the historic center of Quito and its vibrant traditional markets, accompanied by a knowledgeable bilingual guide.
Customer Feedback
Customers have positively reviewed the private sightseeing tour in Quito, rating it 5.0 out of 5 based on a single review.
The review highlights the knowledgeable guide, who enthusiastically shared the city’s rich history, and the engaging, memorable experience. Reviewers emphasize the charm of Quito’s historic center and the opportunity to sample local foods and shop for souvenirs at the city’s vibrant markets.
The tour’s comfortable transportation and accessibility features, such as wheelchair and stroller access, make it suitable for a range of travelers.
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Highlights of Old Town Quito
A highlight of the private sightseeing tour in Quito’s historic center is the opportunity to explore La Compañía Church, a stunning Jesuit temple renowned for its extravagant Baroque-style interior. Visitors can admire the intricate gold leaf ornamentations that cover the walls and ceilings, creating an awe-inspiring atmosphere. Plus, the tour includes a visit to the Old Town, where travelers can stroll through the charming cobblestone streets and marvel at the well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture.
Attraction | Description |
---|---|
La Compañía Church | Stunning Baroque-style Jesuit temple with lavish gold leaf interior |
Old Town | Charming colonial-era streets and architecture |
El Panecillo | Iconic hill with a statue of the Virgin of Quito |
Traditional Markets | Opportunity to sample local foods and purchase souvenirs |
Exploring Traditional Markets
During the private sightseeing tour, visitors can explore Quito’s two largest and most vibrant traditional markets.
The first is Mercado Central, a bustling indoor market where locals shop for fresh produce, meats, and household goods. Visitors can wander the stalls, haggle with vendors, and sample traditional Ecuadorian snacks.
The second market is Mercado Artesanal La Mariscal, an outdoor market featuring handcrafted souvenirs, textiles, and artwork from across the country. Guests can browse the colorful stalls, interact with the artisans, and find unique mementos to take home.
These markets offer a glimpse into the daily life and culture of Quito, providing a memorable and immersive experience for tour participants.
Transportation and Guide
The private sightseeing tour includes round-trip transportation from the traveler’s centrally located Quito hotel.
A professional bilingual guide leads the tour, providing comprehensive exploration of Quito’s top attractions, including the historic Old Town and the iconic La Compañía Church.
Bottled purified water is provided throughout the day. The tour grants visitors the opportunity to sample local foods and shop for souvenirs at the city’s two biggest markets.
With a moderate fitness level required, the tour is accessible to most travelers, including those with wheelchairs or strollers.
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour operates in all weather conditions.
Questions About Your Stay
What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?
The average group size for this tour is not specified. The tour is offered as a private experience, so the group size can vary depending on the number of travelers booking the tour together.
Do the Markets Accept Credit Card Payments?
The tour markets primarily accept cash payments, though some may accept credit cards. It’s recommended to bring local currency to ensure a smooth shopping experience at the markets.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
No, participants cannot bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes bottled purified water, but all other food and beverages must be purchased separately at the markets or during the lunch stop.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
While the standard tour duration is not specified, it’s possible to extend the experience by requesting an extended tour. Travelers should discuss this option with the tour provider when booking to accommodate any scheduling needs.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Interests?
The tour offers flexibility to customize the itinerary to suit the customer’s interests. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the guide and work together to create a personalized experience within the tour’s overall framework.
Final Verdict On This Stay
This private sightseeing tour of Quito’s historic center and traditional markets provides an immersive cultural experience. Visitors will explore iconic landmarks, browse bustling markets, and sample authentic cuisine, all while benefiting from a knowledgeable bilingual guide and convenient transportation. With a focus on the city’s rich history and vibrant culture, this tour promises a memorable adventure tailored to individual interests.
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