Day 01
Quito Churches, Panecillo, and the Middle of the World
- Meet your tour guide and visit the following places.
- Basílica del Voto Nacional Church: It is the highest church in Quito and, among the old churches, it is the newest. It is possible to visit the condor tower and later see the inner part of the church to admire the stained glass.
- Plaza Grande main square with Catedral and Presidential Palace: This point is very important in history. It is where the Government Palace is located and where our President works. The major city hall and the Catedral are other important buildings to visit. In the middle of the square, the monument represents the date when Ecuador launched its first process of revolution.
- La Compañía Church (Gold Church): It is recognized as the most beautiful church in South America. It was built between 1605 and 1765. Almost every part of the church interior has details covered with gold leaf.
- San Francisco Church: Like La Compañía, it is beautiful in its own way. This church was started in 1540, making it one of the oldest churches in the city.
- Chocolate workshop: If you do not have time to visit Mindo to see chocolate plantations and learn about chocolate, visiting Yumbos Chocolate is a great option. Chocolate is made in an artisanal factory, and the flavours of Ecuadorian fruits mixed with chocolate will make you not want to leave the workshop.
- Panecillo Hill: It is the local viewpoint of the city. It was used at different times as a military point to control and defend the city. From here, you can see the city throughout the day.
- Middle of the World Monument: This is the place marked by the scientists who established the centre of the world.
- Intiñan Museum: It is known as the real line because, using a GPS, it points out the equator line.
