Quito Old Town and Middle of the World Private Tour

Quito’s historic center and the Middle of the World site offer a captivating blend of Ecuador’s heritage and global significance. This private tour guides visitors through the city’s iconic landmarks, including the towering Basilica and the ornate La Compañía church. Beyond the colonial architecture, the tour explores the Intiñan Museum, which delves into the country’s equatorial location and its cultural implications. With personalized attention from a bilingual guide and private transportation, this immersive experience promises an unforgettable glimpse into Quito’s rich tapestry of history and traditions. What secrets might this tour unveil about Ecuador’s unique place in the world?

About Your Stay

• A full-day guided tour of Quito’s historic center and the Middle of the World site, providing a personalized and comprehensive exploration.
• Visits to iconic landmarks like the Basilica, Intiñan Museum, La Compañía church, and the equatorial line monument, with entrance fees included.
• Delicious lunch and private transportation throughout the tour, ensuring a hassle-free and comfortable experience.
• Knowledgeable bilingual guide who offers insights into the city’s history, culture, and the significance of the equatorial line.
• Suitable for time-pressed visitors seeking to maximize their experience in Quito and its surrounding attractions.

Tour Overview and Highlights

What does this full-day guided tour of Quito and surrounding areas entail?

It offers visitors a chance to explore the top attractions in Quito and nearby areas. The tour includes visits to the iconic Basilica, the Intiñan Museum, the historic La Compañía church, and the famous Middle of the World site.

Travelers will enjoy a personalized experience with a bilingual guide who can provide valuable insights. This tour is ideal for time-pressed visitors who want to make the most of their time in Quito.

The tour includes private transportation, entrance fees, and a delicious lunch, making it a comprehensive and hassle-free way to discover the highlights of this fascinating city.

Inclusions

This full-day guided tour includes private transportation, a professional bilingual guide, and all necessary entrance fees.

Visitors will have access to the Basilica ($2), Intiñan Museum ($4.5), La Compañía ($4), and the Middle of the World ($7).

A delicious lunch is also provided as part of the tour. Gratuities for the guide and driver are included, so there’s no need to worry about tipping.

With all these inclusions, this tour offers excellent value for the money and ensures a stress-free and enjoyable experience exploring Quito’s top attractions.

Pickup Information

The tour pickup time is 9:00 am from selected hotels. Guests should provide the name of their hotel when booking the tour to ensure smooth pickup arrangements.

The private transportation will then collect participants from their accommodations and transport them to the tour’s starting point. This convenient pickup service allows travelers to maximize their time and focus on the day’s activities without worrying about navigating the city on their own.

It’s a hassle-free way to begin the guided exploration of Quito’s top attractions and the iconic Middle of the World site.

Tour Requirements and Accessibility

Recommended items for the tour include sunglasses, sun cream, comfortable shoes, a camera, extra water, snacks, and a waterproof jacket.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller accessible. Infants must sit on laps during the tour.

Travelers with no serious medical conditions can participate in the tour. The tour covers a range of destinations, so having the appropriate gear and being prepared for the weather conditions is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Basilica

During the tour, visitors have the opportunity to explore the iconic Basilica of the National Vow, a towering neo-Gothic cathedral located in the heart of Quito’s historic center.

The Basilica’s intricate stone carvings, stained-glass windows, and impressive spires make it one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.

Visitors can admire the cathedral’s architectural details and learn about its fascinating history, which includes its role as a symbol of Ecuador’s national identity.

With an entrance fee of just $2, the Basilica offers an affordable and enriching cultural experience for travelers seeking to enjoy Quito’s rich heritage.

Intiñan Museum

After exploring the magnificent Basilica, the tour proceeds to the Intiñan Museum.

Located on the equatorial line, this interactive museum provides a unique opportunity to learn about the indigenous Ecuadorian cultures. Visitors can witness experiments demonstrating the Coriolis effect and stand with one foot in each hemisphere.

The museum’s exhibits showcase traditional Andean arts, crafts, and customs, offering a deeper understanding of the region’s rich heritage. Guests can also participate in cultural activities like playing traditional instruments or learning about medicinal plants.

With its informative exhibits and hands-on experiences, the Intiñan Museum is a highlight of the Quito tour, providing an immersive cultural experience.

La Compañía

What’s La Compañía? It’s a Jesuit church located in the historic center of Quito, known for its impressive Baroque architecture.

Visitors can explore the church’s stunning interior, which features intricate wood carvings, gilded altars, and a beautiful main altar.

The church’s facade is also noteworthy, with its detailed stone carvings and towering bell towers.

During the tour, your guide will provide insights into the church’s history and significance within Quito’s religious and cultural heritage.

La Compañía is one of the must-see attractions on the Quito Old Town and Middle of the World tour, offering a glimpse into the city’s colonial past and impressive architectural wonders.

Middle of the World

Situated just 16 miles north of Quito, the Middle of the World monument marks the spot where the equatorial line intersects the earth.

Visitors can:

• Stand with one foot in the Northern Hemisphere and the other in the Southern Hemisphere
• Participate in experiments to demonstrate the Coriolis effect caused by the earth’s rotation
• Explore the surrounding park, which features museums, restaurants, and souvenir shops
• Take photos at the iconic monument for the perfect proof of being at the "middle of the world"

The Middle of the World offers a unique opportunity to experience the geographic wonder of the equator and learn about the complex systems that govern our planet.

Questions About Your Stay

Can the Tour Be Customized to Meet Specific Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to meet specific interests. The private nature of the tour allows the guide to tailor the experience based on the travelers’ preferences and interests.

Are There Any Discounts or Promotions Available for the Tour?

The tour operator doesn’t currently offer any discounts or promotions for this private tour. However, they may have special offers or packages available at various times, so it’s best to check with them directly for the latest information.

How Long Is the Transfer Time Between Each Attraction?

The tour includes private transportation between attractions, but the exact transfer times aren’t specified. Typical travel times between Quito’s top sights like the Basilica, Intiñan Museum, and Middle of the World are approximately 15-30 minutes each way.

Is the Guide Available to Provide Recommendations for Local Restaurants?

The guide is available to provide recommendations for local restaurants during the tour. They can suggest options that align with the traveler’s preferences and dietary requirements, enhancing the overall experience.

What Is the Cancellation Policy and Are There Any Penalties?

The cancellation policy is flexible, with no penalties for cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance. Customers who cancel within 24 hours may be subject to a partial refund or tour credit.

Final Verdict On This Stay

Enjoy the rich heritage and unique equatorial significance of Quito on this private tour. You’ll explore the historic old town, visit iconic landmarks, and journey to the Middle of the World site. With personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide, private transportation, and lunch included, this tour provides an unforgettable glimpse into Ecuador’s vibrant culture and history.