Quito Tours & Vacations
Located in north-central Ecuador in the Guayllabamba river basin, Quito is the country’s capital city. At an elevation of 2,800 m (9,350 ft) above sea level, Quito is the second highest capital city in the world which can be experienced on an Ecuador vacation.
The area’s earliest inhabitants were the Quito people who gave the city its name. Quito became part of the Incan Empire, growing into a major city before the arrival of Spanish explorers early in the 16th century. The city was officially established, despite resistance from local inhabitants, by Spanish lieutenant Sebastián de Benalcázar in 1534. Roman Catholicism became the religion of the region and more than twenty churches were built during colonial times. During the 19th century, residents of Quito began to strive for independence resulting in the Battle of Pichincha. Victory in this battle marked Quito’s independence from Spain.
The city has continued to grow into the political centre of Ecuador. Recent years have witnessed massive restoration projects which have helped the city maintain its distinct character. Quito was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978 to preserve its colonial convents and churches as well as its famed “Old Town”. This “Old Town” hosts around 130 monumental buildings that celebrate the city’s colonial heritage and is a favourite amongst visitors on Ecuador tours. Quito’s beautiful location coupled with an appreciation for its history makes it an incredible destination to explore.
Because of Quito's elevation and its location on the equator, it is said the city enjoys eternal springtime.
Ecuador Travel Information
At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy-to-navigate travel information section dedicated to an Ecuador vacation.
Learn about the history and culture of Ecuador, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about Ecuador's nature and wildlife, weather and geography, along with 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information, will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering Ecuador for yourself. Start exploring… book one of our Ecuador tours today!
Extend Your Trip
After your Ecuador vacation packages, why not consider another of Goway's Latin America tours? These include a large selection of other exciting countries in Central and South America. We offer Chile vacation packages and Easter Island tours, Peru vacation packages which include Machu Picchu tours and Brazil tours including Iguassu Falls tours among many others.
Quito, Ecuador
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M/C Endemic Galapagos Cruise: 5 Days
DELUXE | CRUISE: Venture through the Galapagos Islands to see soaring frigate birds, lumbering tortoises, and frolicking sea lions. Travelling aboard a luxury yacht, the M/C Endemic, you’ll enjoy world-class comforts and amenities as you cruise through the islands, exploring volcanic landscapes and spotting wildlife.- Duration:
- 5 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 6,319
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous, Cruises & Sailing
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M/C Endemic Galapagos Cruise: 8 Days
DELUXE | CRUISE: Explore a magical world of soaring frigate birds, lumbering tortoises, and delightful penguins on this journey to the Galapagos Islands. Travelling aboard a luxurious yacht, you’ll enjoy deluxe accommodations and expert service as you pass between the islands of the Galapagos, exploring this breathtakingly diverse ecosystem.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 10,132
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous, Cruises & Sailing
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M/C Ocean Spray Galapagos Cruise
DELUXE | CRUISE: Discover the natural playground of the Galapagos Islands and spot rare species such as blue-footed boobies, giant tortoises, and frigate birds on a cruise throughout the archipelago. Stay aboard a 5-star catamaran and choose from 5 to 8 day itineraries to see the wonders of the islands.- Duration:
- 5-8 Days
- Prices From:
- AU$ 8,297
- Trip Type:
- Cruises & Sailing, Luxury and Beyond
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M/V Galapagos Legend: 8 Days
FIRST-CLASS | CRUISE: Experience the diversity of the Galapagos Islands as you spend 8 days sailing aboard the luxurious Legend. Take the time to get close to wildlife as you hike and snorkel around the islands.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- AU$ 7,909
- Trip Type:
- Cruises & Sailing
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Machu Picchu & the Galapagos Your Way
FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: See two of the world’s greatest landmarks on this unforgettable itinerary that you can upgrade or customize to your preferences. After visiting Quito, head to the Galapagos Islands to see its bevy of animals in volcanic environments before connecting to Cusco and exploring the Sacred Valley of the Incas and the citadel of Machu Picchu.- Duration:
- 11 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 4,933
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous, Classics (Bestsellers), Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Manatee Amazon River Boat Ecuador
DELUXE | CRUISE: Manatee Amazon Explorer offers all the necessary comforts while still being an exciting jungle adventure. Your guides share their wealth of knowledge about the Amazon’s tropical rainforest.- Duration:
- 4-8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,604
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous, Bucket List Travel Ideas, Cruises & Sailing
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Mashpi Cloud Forest Lodge
Experience Ecuador's wild side at Mashpi Cloud Forest Lodge.- Duration:
- 3-4 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,824
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous, Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Napo Wildlife Reserve
Leave the city behind and escape to an eco-community in the depths of the Amazon Rainforest. Staying at a luxury eco-lodge in Yasuni National Park, you’ll explore one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet and spot incredible animals, from colourful macaws to golden mantle tamarin monkeys to giant otters.- Duration:
- 4-5 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,089
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous, Family Vacations
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Pikaia Lodge Galapagos
A Galapagos trip is one of the world’s great vacations, and Pikaia Lodge offers 4, 5, or 8 day programs to suit a variety of timeframes, interests, and budgets. The Lodge also boasts its own vessel for exploring the islands in detail.- Duration:
- 4-8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 7,941
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous
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Quito & the Countryside
MODERATE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: With its unending springtime and ‘stone’s throw’ position from the Equator, Quito lays a very real claim to being the center of the world. On this immersive exploration of Ecuadorian capital, discover the city's rich history and the incredible countryside.- Duration:
- 6 Days
- Prices From:
- AU$ 2,399
- Trip Type:
- Private Experiences, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Quito Stopover
FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Visit the historic sites of Quito’s Old Town and see the city’s dozens of museums, shops, cafes and restaurants. Due to its altitude and location, Quito enjoys eternal spring time.- Duration:
- 3 Days
- Prices From:
- AU$ 806
- Trip Type:
- Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas