Top Quito Attractions & Museums

Laguna Quilotoa, a blue-green volcanic crater lake, sits in the rugged Andean countryside south of Quito. With this tour, escape the busy streets of Quito for an all-inclusive day in the Andes, and see Quilotoa Lake from two different lookouts on the crater rim with views of Cotopaxi in the distance. En route back to Quito, spend some time craft workshops in Tigua.

Get a sense of the architecture, history, and culture of Quito during this private tour visiting the city’s top sights. Start with an exploration of the historic city center of this Ecuadorian capital, visiting its main Basilica, Independence Plaza, and many more colonial-era sites. Then take a trip aboard the Teleférico to a peak more than 13,000 feet (4,000 meters) above the city for sublime views, finishing your day at ‘Mitad del Mundo,’ a monument marking where the earth’s equator splits the world into north and south.

Discover the life and talent of Ecuador’s most cherished visual artist, Oswaldo Guayasamín, with entry to the museum, chapel and home that preserve his legacy. View a large collection of his original paintings and sculptures, in addition to pre-Columbian and colonial artifacts, at the museum. See where Guayasamín lived and worked on a tour of his home, and enter the Capilla del Hombre, his final masterwork dedicated as a monument to peace and the people of Latin America.

For an unparalleled nature experience, take a day tour to Antisana Volcano.  After morning pickup from your hotel, you’ll set off to hike along the Andean slopes with your private guide.  Along the way, you’ll spot exciting species like carunculated caracara puma, and the noteworthy Andean condor. Explore the flora and fauna at your own pace. You’ll dine at a local restaurant for lunch, before being returned to your lodgings.

Spend a memorable night out in Quito with dinner and a performance of the renowned ‘Jacchigua’ show presented by the Ecuadorean National Folkloric Ballet. Savor a meal of haute Andean cuisine and a welcome drink before taking your seats for a brilliant display of traditional music, dancing, and costumes featuring more than 90 talented performers and special effects. Hotel pickup and drop-off makes it a safe and stress-free nightlife experience.

Take a break from sightseeing in order to relax mind, body, and soul on a day trip to Termas de Papallacta Spa from Quito. A serene experience ideal for tired travelers, this tour covers the thermal springs of Termas de Papallacta Spa. Spend ample time soaking in the steaming waters of the pools, created by volcanic activity and natural heat. Refreshments and entrance fees are included.

See the show that’s honored as part of the living cultural heritage of Ecuador with tickets to ‘Jacchigua,’ a permanent production of the country’s National Folkloric Ballet. Take a multi-sensory tour through the history, culture, and music of the Andes as 90 performers take the stage in a colorful display of traditional dance, costumes, and rhythms. The top-rated extravaganza makes a memorable night out in Quito for all ages.

Swap the bustling streets of Quito for the serenity of the cloud forest. This private day trip takes you to the Mindo Nambillo Cloud Forest Reserve north of the city to admire butterflies and waterfalls. It’s an ideal itinerary for anyone looking for a nature break, while surrounded by the sights of orchids and sounds of birdlife. Transport is provided from centrally located hotels.

With this tour, you can save the hassle of organizing a rental vehicle and instead explore Quito on a trolley—a replica of one of the city’s old trams. As you ride in style, enjoy guide commentary to help you learn about the sights. Places passed along the way include the Basilica of the National Vow, Plaza San Francisco, the traditional neighborhood of La Ronda, and artisan workshops.

Skip the line at one of Quito’s most popular attractions with this tour to the Church of the Society of Jesus, or “Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús.” Save time waiting in line by booking ahead, breezing by the queue and heading straight into the church anytime on your selected date. Once inside, join a guided tour that highlights the church’s ornate Baroque design features.

Nature lovers will relish in the opportunity to roam through the landscape of this extinct volcano, and discover all the geological wonder hiding along the Ruco Pichincha on this guided hike. Escape the rushed pace of city life. Instead, relax and enjoy the journey to the top. Upon arrival admire incredible views out over the nearby city and the reward of visiting the home of paranormal spirits.

Save your time from lining up to pay for your entry ticket, purchase ahead of time and then pick up your ticket from CarpeDM Adventures Office located on Venezuela N11-139 y Carchi on the exterior side of the building. Just let us know what time more or less you will arrive at our offices and we'll be ready. Visiting the Basilica Voto Nacional Observation Towers in Quito is an experience that promises awe-inspiring views and a deep connection to Ecuador's rich cultural heritage. As you embark on this journey, you'll find yourself immersed in a world of architectural marvels and natural beauty.