Quito
7 Days of Andean Adventure in Quito & Nearby Valleys
Andean peaks, cloud forests, markets, and hot springs in one week
Planning a trip to Quito?
A one-week, cost-conscious but comfortable adventure base around Quito that blends high-Andes hiking, cloud forest, hot springs, markets, and historic streets. Days are tightly clustered by neighborhood so you maximize experiences, not transit, with built-in time to explore lively local barrios at your own pace.
Highlights
Wander UNESCO-listed plazas, gold-covered churches, and viewpoint basilicas in the Centro Histórico.
Stand astride the equator at Mitad del Mundo and explore hands-on science at the Intiñan Museum.
Drop into lush Mindo for waterfalls, ziplining, and hummingbirds in a tropical-feeling valley.
Ride the TelefériQo up Pichincha for big views and short high-altitude hikes above the city.
Shop for textiles and crafts at Quito’s artisan markets and vibrant local food markets.
Soak in steaming mountain hot springs near Papallacta after a light hike in páramo scenery.
Where to Stay
Hotel Casa Montero
Small colonial-style hotel right on Plaza Santo Domingo with terraces overlooking the Old Town.
$55-75/night
Hostal de La Rábida
Charming guesthouse in a converted house with a garden and homey common areas, a short walk from but not in the noisiest part of Plaza Foch.
$60-85/night
Casa Aliso Hotel Boutique
Boutique guesthouse with warm decor and a leafy courtyard in the creative La Floresta neighborhood.
$70-95/nightGood to Know
Altitude Acclimatization Strategy
Plan your first 24–48 hours with gentle walking only, drink water constantly, and consider coca tea (available in pharmacies and cafes) to help with mild symptoms like headaches and shortness of breath.[1]
Smart Local Transport
Use the Quito Metro or Ecovía/Trolebús for predictable north–south travel when not too crowded, and rely on Uber or Cabify at night or when carrying valuables; rides within central areas typically cost $2–5.
Cash, Cards, and Small Bills
Carry a mix of small US dollar bills ($1, $5, $10) for markets, buses, and almuerzos; many small places cannot change $50s, and card machines can go down during storms.
Street Safety & Petty Theft
Keep phones and wallets zipped away when on public transport or in crowds, wear your backpack on your chest in packed areas, and avoid walking with cameras dangling from straps at night.
Restaurant & Tipping Norms
Check your bill: many midrange restaurants already include a 10% service charge; if not, locals often round up or add a small extra tip, and one person usually pays the whole bill rather than splitting.
Respectful Dress & Behavior
In churches and the Old Town, dress a bit more conservatively (no very short shorts; women may want a scarf for shoulders), avoid loud conversations inside churches, and ask before photographing people.
Weather & Layers
Quito days can be sunny and warm then rainy and cool within an hour; pack a light waterproof shell, a fleece, sunhat, and sunscreen, and expect cooler nights even after hot days.
Adventure Activity Booking
For day trips like Mindo or Papallacta, use well-reviewed operators or your hotel to book tours that include transport; confirm whether entrance fees and gear (for ziplining, towels at hot springs) are included before paying.
Your Week Itinerary
Café Galletti Centro
Cozy cafe near Plaza Grande with quality Ecuadorian coffee, simple breakfasts, and pastries; order a cappuccino and a bolón de verde if available.
1h · $8-12 per personPlaza Grande & Historic Core Stroll
Walk slowly around Plaza de la Independencia, see the Presidential Palace from outside, and peek into the Cathedral and surrounding streets.
2h · Free (church entries $2-5)
La Compañía de Jesús Church
Baroque Jesuit church famed for its gold-leaf interior; dress modestly and move slowly to appreciate the detail.
1h · $5-7Heladería Dulce Placer (La Ronda)
Ice cream and sweets spot on La Ronda; try local fruit flavors like taxo or guanábana.
30m · $3-6 per person
Calle La Ronda Evening Walk
Stroll the pedestrian colonial lane, listen for live Andean music, and browse small artisan workshops and cafes.
1h 30m · Free (drinks/snacks extra)
La Casa de Los Geranios
Atmospheric colonial house restaurant on La Ronda serving Ecuadorian dishes; order locro de papas and a shared main.
1h 30m · $15-22 per person
Tianguez Café (under San Francisco church)
Cafe-handicraft space under Plaza San Francisco; light breakfast options with good coffee surrounded by fair-trade crafts.
1h · $8-12 per person
Iglesia y Plaza de San Francisco
Visit the church and its museum, then enjoy the plaza with views toward El Panecillo.
1h · $3-5 (plaza free)
Basílica del Voto Nacional Tower Climb
Walk up through the neo-Gothic basilica and climb the towers for panoramic city views; altitude makes it a bit breathy but it’s short.
1h 30m · $4-5
Cafe Mosaico
Restaurant-café on the hillside with sweeping views over the Old Town; salads, sandwiches, and Ecuadorian plates.
1h 15m · $12-20 per person
Parque Itchimbía & Centro Cultural Itchimbía
Walk the park’s paths and viewpoints, then, if open, check exhibits at the glass cultural center.
1h 30m · Free (special exhibits may charge)
Bandido Brewing Historic Center
Craft beer pub in a historic building with pizzas and bar food; you can share a pizza and try local brews.
1h 30m · $12-18 per person (excluding heavy drinking)35 activities across 7 days
Map
