Quito Old Town Chocolate and Ice Cream Experience

The Quito Old Town Chocolate and Ice Cream Experience offers a unique opportunity to indulge in the rich culinary traditions of Ecuador. Guests will explore a renowned chocolate factory, learning about the intricate process of crafting fine chocolate. They’ll then venture to a beloved local ice cream shop, savoring exotic Latin-inspired flavors that transport them on a delightful sensory journey. With a focus on culture and artisanal craftsmanship, this half-day tour promises to leave visitors with a deeper appreciation for Quito’s vibrant heritage. What more could one discover on this enticing adventure?

About Your Stay

• This half-day tour in Quito’s historic center includes a guided walking tour, interactions with local artisans, and tastings of chocolate and ice cream.
• Highlights of the tour include visiting Independence Square, a woodcarving workshop, a chocolate factory, and an ice cream shop.
• The tour provides an immersive cultural experience by showcasing Ecuadorian artisanry, culinary heritage, and traditional flavors.
• The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours and is priced at $74.85, with free cancellation up to 24 hours.
• The tour has received a perfect 5-star rating from 2 reviews, praised for its knowledgeable guide and delightful, immersive experience.

Tour Overview

The Quito Old Town Chocolate and Ice Cream Experience is a half-day tour that provides visitors with a glimpse into the historic center of Quito, Ecuador.

Rated 5.0 out of 5 based on 2 reviews, this tour combines a guided walking tour of the colonial streets with interactions with local artisans and a tasting of Latin American chocolate and ice cream flavors.

Highlights include Independence Square, a woodcarving workshop, a local chocolate factory, and a traditional ice cream shop.

Meeting at Independence Square, the tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours and is priced from $74.85 with a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Highlights of Quito’s Historic Center

Quito’s historic center is a fascinating tapestry of colonial architecture, vibrant public spaces, and cultural heritage sites.

The tour begins at Independence Square, the heart of the city, where visitors can admire the grand Presidential Palace and the imposing Basilica of the National Vow.

Next, the group visits a local woodcarving workshop, where artisans showcase their intricate handicrafts.

The tour then takes participants to a renowned chocolate factory, allowing them to indulge in the rich flavors of Ecuadorian cacao.

Woodcarving Workshop Experience

Artisans at the woodcarving workshop showcase their intricate handicrafts, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Quito.

The tour guides lead participants to interact with the skilled artisans, who demonstrate the techniques behind their exquisite wood carvings.

Visitors can observe the carvers meticulously shaping the wood, transforming it into intricately detailed figures and ornaments.

This hands-on experience allows travelers to appreciate the dedication and artistry that goes into preserving Quito’s time-honored traditions.

The workshop provides an immersive cultural encounter, complementing the tour’s exploration of the city’s historic sites and culinary delights.

Chocolate Tasting at Local Factory

After the interaction with the skilled woodcarvers, the tour transports participants to a local chocolate factory, where they embark on a delectable journey through the world of Ecuadorian cocoa.

Guests learn about the intricate process of chocolate-making, from bean to bar, while savoring a variety of flavors. They’ll sample dark, milk, and white chocolates, each showcasing the unique profiles of Ecuador’s finest cacao.

The tasting experience also highlights the country’s rich culinary heritage, as the chocolates incorporate traditional Latin American ingredients like cinnamon, chili, and fruit.

It’s a decadent and educational stop that whets the appetite for the final sweet treat on the tour.

Traditional Ice Cream Shop Visit

The traditional ice cream shop visit caps off the immersive Quito experience. Guests will indulge in a variety of Latin-inspired ice cream flavors, including:

• Mora (blackberry)
• Naranjilla
• Taxo (banana passionfruit)

These unique flavors offer a delightful contrast to the rich chocolates sampled earlier.

The local ice cream parlor’s artisanal approach and dedication to using fresh, seasonal ingredients ensure a truly authentic taste of Ecuadorian culture.

This final stop on the tour provides a sweet ending to a day spent exploring Quito’s historic charms and culinary delights.

Meeting and Logistics Details

The tour meets at Independence Square, near the Independence monument, where participants can easily locate the meeting point.

The tour starts at 2:00 PM and returns to the same meeting point at the end of the experience.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s conveniently located near public transportation options, making it accessible for most visitors.

The private tour format ensures a personalized experience, with the host company, Leon Photo And Foodie Tours, providing all necessary entrance fees and snacks throughout the day.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes all entrance fees, transportation, and snacks during the experience.

Guests can look forward to:

• Sampling delectable chocolate and ice cream treats featuring Latin American flavors
• Interacting with local artisans at a woodcarving workshop
• All inclusive package with no additional costs

However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and travelers should plan accordingly.

The tour departs from and returns to the Independence Square, making it easily accessible via public transportation.

Reviews and Feedback

Guests have overwhelmingly praised the Quito Old Town Chocolate and Ice Cream Experience, awarding it a perfect 5-star rating based on 2 reviews.

One reviewer, Sophie_O, lauded the tour, describing it as "phenomenal" and noting the guide’s knowledgeability enhanced the appreciation for Ecuadorian culture and history.

The tour operator has responded positively to the feedback, expressing gratitude and welcoming future visits.

With a total of 2 glowing reviews, the tour seems to offer a delightful and immersive experience for those seeking to explore Quito’s historic center and indulge in local culinary delights.

Questions About Your Stay

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, you can take photos during the tour. The tour overview mentions that the experience includes a guided walking tour through colonial streets, allowing participants to capture the historic sights and interact with local artisans.

Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?

The tour is available in languages other than English, though the specific languages offered are not explicitly stated. Guests are advised to inquire about language options when booking the tour to ensure their preferred language is accommodated.

Are There Any Dietary Accommodations for the Food Tastings?

The tour offers dietary accommodations for food tastings. Participants with special dietary requirements can notify the tour operator in advance, who will make the necessary arrangements to ensure an inclusive and enjoyable experience.

How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?

The tour involves a moderate amount of walking through Quito’s historic center. The guided walking portion lasts approximately 2 hours, covering key sites and interacting with local artisans. Visitors should wear comfortable walking shoes.

Is There an Option to Extend or Customize the Tour?

The tour offers a standard half-day itinerary, but travelers can inquire about customization options with the tour operator. Additional activities or extending the duration may be possible, depending on availability and participant preferences.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The Quito Old Town Chocolate and Ice Cream Experience offers a delightful half-day tour that immerses visitors in the rich flavors and cultural heritage of Ecuador. Guests explore a renowned chocolate factory, learn about the chocolate-making process, and sample exquisite varieties. The tour continues to a traditional ice cream shop, featuring unique Latin-inspired flavors, providing a sweet conclusion to this engaging culinary adventure in Quito’s vibrant old town.