8 day itinerary for Uio

Itinerary

Quito, Ecuador (UIO) is a fantastic destination for families, with its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and plenty of activities that everyone can enjoy. Here’s a fun and family-friendly 8-day itinerary that balances exploration, relaxation, and adventure!

## Day 1: Arrival in Quito

• Morning: Arrive at Mariscal Sucre International Airport. Check into your family-friendly hotel. I recommend staying in the historic center for easy access to attractions.
• Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll around the historic center. Visit the Plaza Grande and the Presidential Palace. Kids will love the pigeons and the lively atmosphere!
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try some traditional Ecuadorian dishes like locro de papa (potato soup) or empanadas.

## Day 2: Exploring the Historic Center

• Morning: Visit the Basilica del Voto Nacional. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city—kids will love the adventure!
• Afternoon: Head to the Museo de la Ciudad (City Museum) for some interactive exhibits that are great for kids.
• Evening: Have dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in the historic center. Consider trying La Ronda, a charming street with various dining options.

## Day 3: Mitad del Mundo & Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve

• Morning: Take a trip to the Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World) monument. Kids will enjoy standing on the equator! There’s also a small museum that explains the science behind it.
• Afternoon: Visit the Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve nearby. Enjoy a family hike with stunning views and maybe even a picnic lunch.
• Evening: Return to Quito and have dinner at a local pizzeria or a casual eatery.

## Day 4: Teleférico & Parque Metropolitano

• Morning: Ride the Quito Teleférico (cable car) up to the Pichincha Volcano. The views are breathtaking, and there are some easy trails at the top for families.
• Afternoon: Spend some time at Parque Metropolitano, where kids can run around, and you can enjoy a picnic. There are playgrounds and beautiful walking paths.
• Evening: Dinner at a restaurant with a view, perhaps in the La Carolina area.

## Day 5: Day Trip to Otavalo

• Morning: Take a day trip to Otavalo, famous for its indigenous market. It’s about a 2-hour drive from Quito.
• Afternoon: Explore the market, where you can find colorful textiles, handicrafts, and local food. Don’t forget to try some llapingachos (potato pancakes) for lunch!
• Evening: Return to Quito and have a relaxed dinner at your hotel or a nearby restaurant.

## Day 6: Cotopaxi National Park

• Morning: Head to Cotopaxi National Park for a day of adventure! It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Quito.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a family-friendly hike or horseback riding around the park. The scenery is stunning, and kids will love the chance to see wildlife.
• Evening: Return to Quito and have dinner at a cozy restaurant.

## Day 7: La Mitad del Mundo & Intiñan Museum

• Morning: If you didn’t get enough of the equator, visit the Intiñan Museum near the Mitad del Mundo. It’s interactive and fun for kids, with experiments demonstrating the effects of being on the equator.
• Afternoon: Return to Quito and visit the Parque La Carolina, where you can rent paddle boats or visit the botanical garden.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a restaurant with a local flair.

## Day 8: Departure

• Morning: Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance for some last-minute shopping or a visit to a local café for breakfast.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.

Tips:

• Always check the weather and pack accordingly, as Quito can be quite variable.
• Make sure to stay hydrated and take it easy, especially with kids, as the altitude can be a factor.
• Consider using local transportation or hiring a guide for day trips to make things easier.

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic family adventure in Quito! Enjoy every moment! 🌍✈️