3 day itinerary for Quito, Ecuador

Itinerary

Quito is a fantastic destination with a rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. Here’s a fun and educational 3-day itinerary for your group of 10-12 people. I’ll include transportation options and estimated prices to help you plan. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Exploring the Historic Center

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café. Try “Café de Tere” for delicious Ecuadorian breakfast options. Expect to spend around $5-10 per person.
• Transportation: Walk to the historic center (it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site) since it’s compact and pedestrian-friendly.

Activity:

• Plaza Grande: Visit the main square, where you can see the Presidential Palace and the Cathedral. Free entry!
• Basilica del Voto Nacional: A stunning neo-Gothic church. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city. Entry fee is about $2 per person.

Lunch:

• Restaurant: Enjoy lunch at “La Ronda,” a charming street with various eateries. Budget around $10-15 per person.

Afternoon:

• Museo de la Ciudad: Learn about Quito’s history and culture. Entry fee is around $3 per person.
• La Compañía de Jesús: Visit this baroque church, famous for its intricate gold leaf interior. Entry fee is about $2 per person.

Evening:

• Dinner: Head to “El Ventanal” for a lovely dinner with a view. Expect to spend around $15-20 per person.
• Transportation: Return to your accommodation via walking or a group taxi (around $10-15 total).

## Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Nature

Morning:

• Breakfast: Grab breakfast at your accommodation or a nearby café ($5-10 per person).
• Transportation: Hire a private van for the day (around $150-200 total for the group).

Activity:

• Mitad del Mundo: Visit the equatorial monument and learn about the significance of the equator. Entry fee is about $5 per person.

Lunch:

• Restaurant: Enjoy lunch at the nearby “Intiñan Museum” café, where you can try local dishes. Budget around $10-15 per person.

Afternoon:

• Intiñan Museum: Explore this interactive museum that showcases the science and culture of the equator. Entry fee is about $4 per person.

Evening:

• Dinner: Return to Quito and dine at “Café Mosaico,” known for its great views and local cuisine. Expect to spend around $15-20 per person.
• Transportation: Return to your accommodation via the private van.

## Day 3: Art and Adventure

Morning:

• Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation or a local café ($5-10 per person).
• Transportation: Use the private van again for the day.

Activity:

• Guápulo: Visit this charming neighborhood known for its art and culture. Explore the Guápulo Church and local art galleries. Free entry!

Lunch:

• Restaurant: Have lunch at “La Casa de la Cultura,” where you can enjoy local dishes. Budget around $10-15 per person.

Afternoon:

• TelefériQo: Take a cable car ride up Pichincha Volcano for breathtaking views of Quito. Round-trip ticket is about $8 per person. Enjoy some hiking or just take in the scenery at the top.

Evening:

• Dinner: Celebrate your last night at “Zazu,” a fine dining restaurant that offers a fusion of Ecuadorian and international cuisine. Expect to spend around $30-50 per person.
• Transportation: Return to your accommodation via the private van.

Summary of Costs:

• Transportation (Private Van): $150-200 total for 3 days
• Meals: Approximately $5-50 per person per meal, depending on the restaurant.
• Entry Fees: Around $30-40 per person for all activities.

Total Estimated Cost for the Group:

• Transportation: $150-200
• Meals (3 days): $450-600 (assuming $15-20 per meal for 12 people)
• Entry Fees: $360-480 (assuming $30-40 per person for 12 people)

Grand Total: Approximately $960 - $1,280 for the group, excluding accommodation.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan an unforgettable trip to Quito! Enjoy the rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious food! If you have any more questions or need adjustments, feel free to ask! 🌍✈️