Quito Express

Quito

The tour begins visiting the Quito`s downtown, one of the biggest in South America, our first point is the oldest street of the city, La Ronda, that used to be the home of musicians, poets and politics back in time. Here we will encounter with the traditions of the city first by stopping in the gastronomic capsule, to have an explanation of the different local spices that are used for the typical Ecuadorian gastronomy. Continuing we will visit the house of handicrafts made of metal and wood most of them designed for the traditional churches and made by hand for furniture decoration (Tasting costs and tips are not included). After we are done with la Ronda we will visit the Independence Square, surrounded by important historical buildings. Visit the Cathedral (XVI Century), the Presidential Palace, El Sagrario Church (XVII Century), and La Compañia de Jesus (XVII Century), one of the most beautiful baroque churches in South America, Not to be missed are the Church of San Francisco and Monastery, built a few months after the arrival of the Spaniards (XVI Century). Finally we will drive to the viewpoint at the Panecillo hill, where is located the virgin of Quito, the unique winged virgin of the world. You will have a wonderful view over the city and the surrounding mountains and volcanos. Afterward, we will drive 30 km (18.6 mi) to the north side of Quito, toward to the Middle of the World where the equatorial line divides the northern and southern hemispheres. Firstly, we will visit the main monument built in honor of the French scientific expedition that arrived in Ecuador in the XVIII century. Nonetheless, after taking some pictures with the monument, we will visit the correct location of the equator line at the Inti Ñan Museum, where we will have the opportunity to learn in a playful way more about the Middle of the World, scientifically and culturally. Later, we will go to an artisanal chocolate factory, where we can learn more about the Ecuadorian fine aroma cocoa and also about the chocolate process. In the end, we will be able to taste the chocolate processed while we sweet our day. After all, we will return to Quito. Excursion can also be provided with lunch at a typical restaurant.
Overnight: Quito
Meals: Breakfast