BE AN EXPERT IN QUITO ADDITIONAL INFORMATION TO THE WEBINAR ALL YOU NEED IS ECUADOR

Transcription

1 BE AN EXPERT IN QUITO ADDITIONAL INFORMATION TO THE WEBINAR ALL YOU NEED IS ECUADOR 1

2 GENERAL CONTENTS 1. The City of Quito Location on the world map Essential information Quito, the city, its origins & history City recognitions 2. Quito Urban Area Old Quito or Oldtown La Mariscal & Floresta Financial District The Middle of the World 3. Quito for Special Interests Culture & entertainment Parks & green spaces Kids & families Archaeology Shopping in the city Nightlife & events Congresses & Conventions 4. Infrastructure & Services in the City Accommodation Gastronomy Air transportation Transport in Quito Directory of services 5. Suggested itineraries and routes to visit the city 4 days in the city Special Interests routes 6. Quito surroundings and connectivity with other attractions and destinations in Ecuador. Mountains & Snow-capped volcanoes Rainforest Indian Markets Papallacta and thermal baths Amazon Guayaquil & Cuenca Galapagos Islands 2

3 THE CITY OF QUITO LOCATION IN THE WORLD MAP Quito is located close to the 0 latitude in the inter-andean valley; it s surrounded by spectacular mountains and snow-capped volcanoes. ESSENTIAL INFORMATION Capital of Ecuador Population: 2 500,000 Est. Elevation: between m.a.s.l. (9.186 ft.) to m.a.s.l. ( ft.) in the highest districts Mild climate with average temperatures from 10 C (50 F) to 27 C (80.6 F) QUITO, THE CITY, ITS ORIGINS & HISTORY Archeological remains Archaeological investigations show that in the area of El Inga -a farm located near the Ilaló hill- nomadic peoples lived around BC; they survived on hunting, fishing and food gathering. These are the first life traces not only in Quito but in Ecuador as a whole. Since then, and over time, the area where nowadays lies Quito, was inhabited by people and cultures that left not only archaeological remains but their mark through the names of places and neighborhoods that bear their name even to our times, such as: Florida, Cotocollao, Rumipamba, among others. 3

4 Spanish Colonization ( ) When the Spanish conquistadores arrived to the Tahuantinsuyo in the current area of Quito, the Inca Empire was immersed in a civil war caused by the struggle for power between Atahualpa and his brother Huáscar. The first one defended its hegemony from Quito, and the second one from Cuzco. Spaniards sought Quito area because the rumors said that they would find Atahualpa treasure here, so they formed 2 expeditions: the first one coming from the south under Sebastián de Benalcázar command, who arrived to Quito in With his arrival the Spanish foundation of the city took place. From this date on, the city started a 300 years of colonial period which left a great mark and legacy through an important number of buildings that are part of the current charm and appeal of Quito s historic centre. Many landmarks were built on this time especially buildings and churches part of the religious communities that made Quito their home such as San Francisco, Santo Domingo, San Agustín, La Compañía, among others, complementing the paintings artwork and sculpture of the renowned Escuela Quieña or Quito Art s School. Another interesting fact of this period worth to mention is the arrival of the Frenchgeodesic mission, which arrived in 1736 to make field research work and measurements that confirmed the theory that Quito lies in the Middle of the World, this is on the Latitude Independence ( ) On August the 9 th 1809, a group of well-educated Creole people met in Manuela Cañizares house. On August the 10 th 1809, an Act was signed, ceasing on his duties the -at that time- President of the Royal Audience of Quito, the Conde Ruiz de Castilla. Due to diverse circumstances, this fact was reversed and in retaliation, on August the 2 nd 1810 around 300 Quiteños were killed in the barracks of the city (current historical wax museum). The independence process arrived to its end on May the 24 th 1822 when the Spanish royal army was defeated by the local freedom fighters under the command of the Marshal Antonio José de Sucre. As a memento of this memorable date, until now, the Presidential guard keeps the same uniforms as the ones used in the Battle of Pichincha. Quito & The Gran Colombia ( ) On June 1822, the liberator Simón Bolívar arrived to Quito to annex the territories of the former Real Audiencia de Quito to the Republic of Gran Colombia, at that time made up of the current territories of Colombia, Ecuador, Panamá and Venezuela with Bogota as its capital city. Quito then becomes the southern department. The early days of the Republic ( ) In 1830 the Republic of Ecuador is created with the Venezuelan Juan José Flores as its first President, since then, Quito is the capital of the country. As some important events of the City s development through history worth to mention are: In 1908 the Steam train arrives for the first time to the Chimbacalle Station. For 34 years the Quito Tramways Company operated tramways in two services: Chimbacalle station to San Diego cemetery; and, Chimbacalle station to Colón Avenue. 4

5 In 1960 Mariscal Sucre International airport start its operations On September the 8th 1978, Quito was declared by UNESCO as the first World Heritage City. The 21st Century City At the time, Quito is a city that develops at the globalization pace, in terms of technology as well as in infrastructure, transport, services, nowadays, is a metropolis that offers its visitors everything they need for a great experience. In relation to milestones dates, as described the previous paragraph and in relation to the city s projection to the future the following recent events can be mentioned: In mid-2013, the train links once again the cities of Quito and Guayaquil through the Tren Crucero circuit starting from Chimbacalle station. At the beginning of 2013 starts the construction of the first Metro line that will cover a distance of 23 km (14,5 miles) north - South. On February 2013 the brand-new Mariscal Sucre International Airport opens its doors. Two years in a row, 2013 and 2014 Quito is recognized as the South America s leading destination in the World Travel Awards. Plaza de San Francisco 1875 Plaza de San Francisco 2013 CITY RECOGNITIONS Over the years, the city of Quito has been recognized in several fields, ranging from culture, politics, architecture and tourism among others; some of its major recognitions are: First World Heritage Site, UNESCO, Latin-American Culture Capital, UCCI, 2004 Permanent Headquarters of the Union of South American Nations, UNASUR, since 2010 American Capital of Culture, IBOCC, 2011 Trip Advisor Travelers Choice World Travel Awards, South America s Leading Destination 2013 & 2014 Finalist of the New 7 Wonder Cities contest 5

6 URBAN AREA Quito s urban area grows and spreads along the mountains and volcano complex well-known as the Pichinchas, making of Quito an elongated City in North South direction (40 km / 24,8 miles approximately) and narrow in East West sense (on average 8 km /4,9 miles) In the urban area of the City there are diverse neighborhoods and districts, among which the main touristic zones are identified as follows: the Old Town, La Mariscal & La Floresta districts and the financial center. City Tourist areas: Old Quito or Oldtown La Mariscal & Floresta Financial District 6

7 CITY TOURIST AREAS OLD QUITO OR OLDTOWN Oldtown Quito s Old town with 375,2 Hectares (9 acres) or 3,75 Km2, is America s largest and best preserved Colonial Old Town; it features more than 130 monumental buildings and a great amount of religious buildings that give to the city the nickname of The Cloister of America, since it contains more than 60 Churches, Chapels, Monasteries, Convents & Chapter rooms and more than 10 major squares of the Colonial time Among the most relevant places to visit are: Plaza Grande & La Catedral Also known as Independence Square, this place can be considered the center of the city and starting point to discover the Historical Center of Quito. In the middle of this square you ll find the Monument to the Independence and in its surroundings the main powers of the State represented by the Presidential Palace, the City hall, the Cathedral and the Bishop s Palace are found. Iglesia de la Compañía 160 years lasted the construction of this church ( ); considered the best example of the Baroque style in Quito. Its impressive facade carved in stone is the entrance to its extraordinary interior decorated with a great work of gold leaf. Iglesia & Plaza de San Francisco Complex made up of a wide stone square, an easily recognizable church due to its twin towers and the convent that hosts a museum of religious art of great value. The construction of this architectonic complex initiated in 1.536, this is, only 2 years after the city s foundation. Boulevard 24 de Mayo Avenue built at the beginning of the 20th century, this point was considered the southern city limit. It was re-inaugurated as a Boulevard; its 4 old squares have been recovered. This avenue is now linked to other old town sites of interest such as La Ronda Street and San Francisco church and square. Pasaje Espejo & Plaza Chica This traditional Pedestrian Street follows a west east direction. Located few meters away from Quito s Main Square, this Street passes by very interesting places like the Small Square and the Theater Bolivar besides of featuring an excellent offer of places to eat. 7

8 Barrio de San Marcos This is one of the traditional neighborhoods of Quito s old town that still keeps its original personality and the calm of the ancient times. The Junín Street leads from the beginning of this district to the traditional square and church of the 17th century. You will find here some interesting places like the Watercolor painting Museum, the Manuela Sáenz and the Architecture Museum. LA MARISCAL & LA FLORESTA The area of La Mariscal starts to develop in the 30s becoming a commercial zone which now features shopping, bookstores, Banks, embassies and tourism-related businesses. Plaza Foch In the last years it has strengthen its tourism vocation through the improvement of Squares, parks and green areas many of which have Wi-Fi zones. Tourism and nightlife have boomed in places such as Plaza Foch, Plaza Yuyu and bohemian neighborhoods like Guápulo among other places that currently offer rich and wide options for fun, food and people from all over the world, so we can say that here you can find Several different cultures sharing the same place. Among the main places to see here are: Plaza Foch In the center of La Mariscal neighborhood, this square is the right place to hang out and to be seen. Home to services, facilities and businesses related with the tourism industry and most of Quito s Nightlife. Its main appeal roots in its capacity to hold many diverse cultures in only one spot. Plaza Yuyu Located in the North end of La Mariscal district, this place and its surroundings display very pleasant spaces to enjoy a coffee, a beer and great gastronomical offer. On one of its sides the Museum of the Cultures Mindalae rises. Plaza Gabriela Mistral This Square, -a former park- is part of the revitalization process that is taking place at La Mariscal district. Located few meters away from the famous Plaza Foch, the Gabriela Mistral square offers a space of resting, reading and for cultural activities, close to all the services that this cosmopolitan zone of Quito has to offer. Guápulo This Bohemian district of Quito is located in the city s Eastern flank from where Francisco de Orellana departed on his trip that ended with the discovery of the Amazon River. From the 8

9 viewpoint in the upper part of this district to the lower side that arrives to the Church of Guápulo the cobble stone road is home to several bars and places to hang out. La Floresta This traditional district of Quito is becoming one of most dynamic areas in the city. It is home to several universities and institutes; an alternative chain of cinema (8 ½) and a wide range of prestigious restaurants. FINANCIAL DISTRICT Bulevar Naciones Unidas The center of this sector is La Carolina the most visited city park, around which grows the City s main financial and commercial center. This place is home to Shopping centers and Malls, Banks, offices, hotels and entertainment places. The Naciones Unidas ; Amazonas ; Shyris and Republica del Salvador Avenues are the best representatives of this modern area. Among the paces to see are: Boulevard Av. Naciones Unidas This Boulevard goes in East-West direction, along one of the most important avenues of the city. Starting at the Atahualpa Olympic stadium, this Boulevard links the main commercial avenues of this area as well as shopping centers and sites of interest such as La Carolina Park. Frequent shows and/or air-open exhibitions take place on this spot. Avenida República del Salvador This is one of the areas of largest expansion in modern construction. It is home to a variety of avant-garde buildings where important companies and luxurious apartments are found. Along this Avenue there are several restaurants and cafes where the daily movement and life of this modern area can be appreciated. Avenida Amazonas With an extension of 8 km. (4.9 miles) it constitutes an important road axis of Quito. In the section located along La Carolina Park, it concentrates part of the financial center of the city, where you find banks and an endless number of entertainment options. 9

10 THE MIDDLE OF THE WORLD Equator or Latitude is the line after which the country was named and is also a place to enjoy both hemispheres at the same time; this place also features a calendar of artistic performances, a planetarium where people can see the stars of the north and of the southern hemispheres and other diverse activities to enjoy of this particular place. Monumento Mitad del Mundo Ciudad Mitad del Mundo Complex of several attractions where you also find the monument located in the Equatorial Line, on the latitude marked with This Complex was built hundreds of years after the visit of the first French Geodesic Mission (1.736), who s scientific studies allowed determining the center of our planet, or as we know it, the Middle of the World. Museum Inti-ñan Inti Ñan or the Path of the sun is a space dedicated to the scientific research of the Equator and its bordering towns. Here you can enjoy a sample of the Andean ways of life, its ancestral cultures and several interesting activities related to its special location in the center of the Earth. QUITO, SPECIAL INTERESTS CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT Culture and entertainment are part of the daily life in Quito: Theatre, museums, music and art are exposed in more than 20 theatres and cultural spaces showing international events and festivals, classic and symphonic music, dances and ancestral festivals. Teatro Sucre In this city, ancient cultures and traditions are kept alive such as the Easter parade. In addition, Quito also offers places and meeting sites to enjoy movies, sports, shows and activities to have fun. 10

11 Among the places with an interesting Agenda of events are: Theatre Sucre Inaugurated in 1886; this theater of neoclassic style was the first emblematic theater of Quito. It has capacity for 804 people and has been the scenery not only for the greatest theater and orchestral works presented in the country, but also for important events of the city. Its interior is decorated with art works dating mostly from the 20th century. Casa de la Música Thanks to its new architecture techniques and impeccable acoustics, it is considered as one of the best stages for the music on this hemisphere. Hans and Gi Neustaetter or House of the Music constitutes one of the higher concert halls of the world due to the altitude of the City. In addition, it counts on a Room for smaller presentations and Conferences and the Main Hall. Theatre Variedades E. Albán It was inaugurated in 1913 under the name of Teatro Variedades and functioned exclusively as a cinema until 1994, when it closed its doors. After a revitalization process, this Theater has re-opened its doors with new state-of-the-art technology and a capacity of 250 seats. Plaza de las Américas This is a space for the family entertainment that counts on restaurants, coffee places, cinemas, a gym, places for kids and specialized stores. Additionally, several events and presentations take place having as a stage the center of this covered Plaza and where the premises become a place for the audience. Movies The city boasts several multiplex cinema chains where films and premieres at national and international level are presented; they count on state-of-the-art technology, parking lots, snack-bars, and all the facilities for a pleasant experience while watching a movie dubbed to Spanish or in English with Spanish subtitles. Ice Skating Rinks If you never have imagined yourself Ice Skating close to the Equator, in Quito this is possible. The city offers Ice rinks in 2 shopping centers, one in the north and the other one in the south of the city, and unlike the seasonal Ice rinks in North America or Europe, these ones are open throughout the year. Stadiums Fútbol (soccer) is the most practiced sport in Ecuador and the most followed at professional level, so Quito stadiums are frequented by many people throughout the year to watch the local championship matches as well as the international games that take place in any of the city s 3 stadiums; Casa Blanca and Olímpico Atahualpa in the north of the city and Aucas stadium in the south. 11

12 PARKS & GREEN SPACES With more than 20 m2 of green areas per capita, Quito is one of the greenest cities in South America. The suggested minimum international Media for a city is 10m 2 per person. Quito has more than 27 forests & metropolitan parks, Areas of relaxation to enjoy such as Parque Náutico or the Botanical Garden. Among others, you can visit the following sites: Parque La Carolina La Carolina Park With 67 hectares this park -in the middle of the city- is one of the largest urban parks of Quito and in the country. It features a wide variety of places and activities including: soccer fields, volleyball, basketball and tennis courts; jogging path, a BMX circuit, rollers and skating park, child s playground exercising areas, an exhibition center, a small artificial lake with pedal boats, parking and more. Botanical Garden In this place you can observe a wide variety of orchids and other species of flora that are normally found on the Ecuadorian Andes slopes. Green areas surround the Orchids green house and represent environments from different mountain ranges. Metropolitan Park With an extension of 557 hectares (1376 acres) this park - forest, is the main lung of the city. This park lies at an altitude of 2,890 m. (9,481 Ft.) above the sea level. The visitors can enjoy its nature and the fresh air. This park is inhabited by more than 10 species of hummingbirds and 70 species of birds. In addition it also counts on BBQ areas. This park is the ideal site for mountain bike lovers. KIDS & FAMILIES Quito is also a city to enjoy in family through diverse activities to enjoy and learn with the kids; it has museums and interactive spaces such as: Exposición Dinosaurios 12

13 Interactive Museum of Science (MIC) In this great place, home to the largest model of Quito s urban area, the visitors learn about science and the city s development in a funny and interactive way. Dinosaurs Recreations of natural size dinosaurs with own movements create a fascinating atmosphere. The visit to this museum becomes a great adventure, due to the interactivity that takes the visitors back in time when these animals existed. Vulqano Park It is located inside the Telefériqo or cable car complex. It has electronic and mechanical games. Quito Zoo Quito Zoo is located in the warm town of Guayllabama, 30 Km. (19 miles) north of Quito. In an area of about 12 has. (30 acres) You will find around 180 different animals including fauna of Ecuador as well as some species from other world regions. An excellent option for a day out with the children. SHOPPING Options for each visitor of the City; Handcrafts, recognized brands, & fashion items; books or toys, souvenirs, etc., are on display in more than 10 shopping centers and Malls in the urban area of Quito, in the handcraft markets and / or specialized stores along the city. Tienda el Quinde Among the main Shopping Centers featuring stores with local and international renowned brands, and with services such as Banks, entertainment, special restaurants, food courts, bookstores, and other services are: In the Financial District area Quicentro Shopping Mall El Jardín Centro Comercial Iñaquito o CCI In the South of the city Quicentro Sur El Recreo 13

14 In the North area of the city (In the way to the Middle of the World) Ciudad Comercial el Bosque El Condado Shopping In Cumbayá district (In the way to the International Airport) Scala Shopping Paseo San Francisco As for handcrafts and important Ecuadorian products, we can highlight several recognized shops and places such as: Galería Ecuador Gourmet: La Mariscal area Tienda El Quinde: Oldtown Olga Fish: between La Mariscal and La Floresta Mercado Artesanal: La Mariscal area ARCHAEOLOGY Traces of life in an ancient city are displayed in places like: Museo Casa del Alabado Museum Casa del Alabado This private Museum displays Pre- Columbian Art, having as a main objective the contribution to the development of the culture. This museum keeps an archaeological patrimony of approximately 5,000 original pieces, coming from most of the societies that inhabited Ecuadorian land in the past. Museo Nacional This museum exhibits the most important pieces of Ecuadorian art in its different rooms: Archaeology, Gold, Colonial Art, Republican Art and Contemporary Art. It additionally counts on several temporary exhibition rooms. Tulipe The monumental site of Tulipe pools is the center of a broader cultural context that preserves the testimonies of a past civilization. The construction of these structures by the Yumbos is an evidence of their highest creative expression, not only from the architectonic or design point of view, but it also talks about their social, organizational and religious development. 14

15 NIGHTLIFE & EVENTS Panorama Norte de Quito Quito shows its legendary nightlife & vibrant atmosphere through several events that take place in the city such as concerts and international shows and presentations that complement its wide offer of bars, discos, live music, and many other Farra options, especially in the Plaza Foch and its surroundings and Plaza Yuyu, both in La Mariscal district and other places located in the same district as well as in the financial center and in the Old town. A vibrant City, Old & New; the ideal destination for meeting and congresses since it counts on diverse Meeting and convention centers; Unique spaces and colonial and historic iconic venues that allow the organization of a great diversity of events. Capilla Museo de la Ciudad Among the main Meeting and convention centers are: Centro de Exposiciones y eventos Mitad del Mundo Centro de Convenciones Eugenio Espejo Quorum Quito, Centro de Convenciones Quito Exhibitions Center Centro de Convenciones Quitumbe For further information about conventions and events venues, unique spaces, agenda of events and other useful information please visit the on-line directory of services showed at the end of this sales manual. 15

16 INFRASTRUCTURE & SERVICES IN THE CITY Accommodation Quito presents a wide hotel network, featuring several categories in the different City districts covering the needs of every market, from 5 star hotels for guests who enjoy luxury to backpackers hostels. There are hotels in the tree main touristic areas: the Old Town, La Mariscal & La Floresta district and in the Financial center. Further information about the city s hotel network can be found in the Directory of Services in the following link: Gastronomy In Quito you can find all kind of restaurants, from the local specialties of Quito and other Ecuadorian regions to the flavors of the international cuisine. Further information about the city s gastronomy and restaurants network can be found in the Directory of Services in the following link: Air Transportation Mariscal Sucre International Airport (IATA code: UIO) is the main airport of Ecuador. Located near the town of Tababela approximately 40 Km away from the city it features a 4,100 m long runway at an altitude of 2,400 meters (7.870 Ft.) and a 41 m high control tower. The airport area occupies a total area of 1,500 hectares It has been awarded as the South America s Leading Airport in the 2014 edition of the World Travel Awards and offers Service to +33 destinations (14 nationals; +19 internationals) Transport in Quito Tourist Transport There are several private tourist transport companies commonly used by the tour operators for the transport of their passengers in the different tours and circuits operated not only in the city but in the whole country. 16

17 Regular Buses and Bus Rapid Transit Systems (BTRs) Quito has three different BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) systems driving over the main avenues in north south direction: Trolebus: North station Quitumbe Regional Buses Station, green line. Ecovía & Corredor Sur Oriental: Río Coca north station Quitumbe Regional Buses Station, red line. Metrovía: Ofelia North Station Marín Chillos Station blue line. All three systems have feeder buses routes to go to different sectors of the city. Estación Norte Trolebus Public Bicycles This Public system counts on more than 500 bicycles distributed in 25 BiciQuito stations located strategically in places close to the busiest points, places of interest, and student, banking and commercial areas of Quito. Taxis & Rent a Car Taxis in Quito are yellow and work under a tariff system called Taximeter. The minimum payment for a ride is 1.00 USD. Taxi service from/to Quito airport may vary from to USD Metro Quito L1 under construction 17

18 SUGGESTED ITINERARIES AND ROUTES TO VISIT THE CITY 4 DAYS IN THE CITY DAY 1: VISIT TO THE OLD TOWN FULL DAY PM: AVAILABLE CULTURAL EVENT (HOUSE OF THE MUSIC, THEATER SUCRE, THEATER BOLÍVAR ) The suggested itinerary for this day in the Oldtown is scheduled to work with the stops and timetables of the Quito Tour Bus; however, it is also possible to do it in private transportation. 09:00 Leave from Naciones Unidas Boulevard on board the double-decker tourist bus, or leave from hotel. This Boulevard goes in East-West direction, along one of the most important avenues of the city. Starting at the Atahualpa Olympic stadium, this Boulevard links the main commercial avenues of this area as well as shopping centers and sites of interest such as La Carolina Park. Frequent shows and/or air-open exhibitions take place on this spot. 09:40 Visit of Center for contemporary art The old Army Hospital in the traditional district of San Juan is now home to the Contemporary Art Center of the city. This building has suffered an astonishing renovation process becoming an attraction by itself, is now home to the Contemporary Art Center of the city 10:40 La Basílica church, visit of the towers In the year of 1,892 the first stone that started the process of construction of the biggest church of Ecuador was placed. This church of Neo-Gothic style took more than 100 years to be completed and features great viewpoints at the top of its towers from where you can enjoy the city as well as the church s gargoyles inspired on the fauna of Ecuador. 11:55 La Compañía church, visit of the church 160 years lasted the construction of this church ( ); considered the best example of the Baroque style in Quito. Its impressive facade carved in stone is the entrance to its extraordinary interior decorated with a great work of gold leaf. 12:30 Visit of San Francisco square and Monastery Complex made up of a wide stone square, an easily recognizable church due to its twin towers and the convent that hosts a museum of religious art of great value. The construction of this architectonic complex initiated in 1.536, this is, only 2 years after the city s foundation. After this visit, time for lunch. 18

19 14:15 Visit of Casa del Alabado Museum This private Museum displays Pre-Columbian Art, having as a main objective the contribution to the development of the culture. This museum keeps an archaeological patrimony of ca. 5,000 original pieces, coming from societies that inhabited Ecuadorian land in the past. 15:00 Visit of Museum of the City This museum is located in one of the oldest buildings of Quito, dating from Here you can appreciate works and objects part of the history of the city. Additionally it also has temporary exhibition halls that invite you to visit this museum more than once. 16:00 Independence Square Also known as Independence Square, this place can be considered the center of the city and starting point to discover the City s Old town. In the square s center you ll find the Monument to the Independence and in its surroundings the main powers of the State represented by the Presidential Palace, the City hall, the Cathedral and the Bishop s Palace are found. 16:30 El Quinde Store El Quinde gift shop features a modern approach and concept, offering visitors Quito s finest products, while showcasing the natural and cultural essence, heritage and diversity of the Ecuadorian capital. 17:05 Return to NNUU Boulevard on board Quito Tour Bus The tour ends around 17:55 18:00 Transfer to the hotel 18:45 Event according to the current agenda on: Sucre Theatre, House of the Music or other Iglesia La Compañía Teatro Sucre 19

20 DAY 2: AM VISIT MIC + PANECILLO HILL. LUNCH PM TELEFÉRICO (QUITO S CABLE CAR) 08:30 Transfer from hotel to the south area of the city, visit the Interactive Science Museum (MIC) In this great place, home to the largest model of Quito s urban area, the visitors learn about science and the city s development in a funny and interactive way. 10:30 Transfer and visit to El Panecillo This natural hill was baptized due to its similarity with a small piece of bread (Panecillo). Located in the middle of the city this place stands as a natural viewpoint. The Panecillo hill, with 3,000 m. (9,842 ft.) above the sea level, marks the division between the south and the old town. In 1976, the Spanish artist Agustín de la Herrán Matorras built in aluminum, the monument to the Virgin at the top of this hill. Time for lunch 14:00 Transfer and Visit Teleferiqo It is located on the skirts of the Ruco Pichincha volcano. The cable s car departure station is located at 2,950 m. (9,678 ft.) and the arrival one at 4,100 m. (13,450 ft.), from here you will enjoy spectacular views of the city and the surrounding mountains and volcanoes such as the Antisana, the Cotopaxi and the Cayambe. Return to the hotel around 18:00 Panecillo TeleferiQo 20

21 DAY 3: AM VISIT TO THE BOTANICAL GARDEN + MEN S CHAPEL. LUNCH PM MINDALAE MUSEUM + PLAZA FOCH. COFFEE, TEA, BEER AT THE PLAZA 09:00 Transfer to visit the Botanical Garden In this place you can observe a wide variety of orchids and other species of flora that are normally found on the Ecuadorian Andes slopes. Green areas surround the Orchids green house and represent environments from different mountain ranges. 11:30 Transfer to visit the Chapel of Men Architectonic and cultural space; this iconic building similar to the Inca temples, was conceived by Oswaldo Guayasamín ( ), one of the most relevant artists that Ecuador has given; this is a space dedicated to the Latin American man, exhibiting at the same time important works of this recognized Quiteño. Time for lunch 14:30 Transfer to visit Mindalae Museum This is the Ethno-historic museum of handcrafts. It takes its name from an emblematic personage of the Northern Andes zone: the Mindala, the old indigenous America retailer, who was responsible of establishing commerce relations between the four cardinal points. The exchanges or interchanges used to take place in the cities Plazas. 15:30 Short Walk in La Mariscal area. Gabriela Mistral & Foch squares. Take a short walk from Gabriela Mistral square to Plaza Foch to enjoy the bohemian environment of this cosmopolitan zone. To finish the afternoon, go for a Coffee, a hot chocolate, a cup of tea, natural juices; a glass of wine or any other thing your clients would like to have before returning to the hotel. Jardín Botánico Capilla del Hombre 21

22 DAY 4: AM MIDDLE OF THE WORLD. LUNCH PM SHOPPING + COFFEE, TEA, JUICE AT LAS TERRAZAS 08:30 Pick up at hotel, visit of City Mitad del Mundo Complex of several attractions where you also find the monument located in the Equatorial Line, on the latitude marked with This Complex was built hundreds of years after the visit of the first French Geodesic Mission (1.736), who s scientific studies allowed determining the center of our planet, or as we know it, the Middle of the World. 11:30 Visit of Inti Ñan Museum Inti Ñan or the Path of the sun is a space dedicated to the scientific research of the Equator and its bordering towns. Here you can enjoy a sample of the Andean ways of life, its ancestral cultures and several interesting activities related to its special location in the center of the Earth. 14:30 Transfer to visit one of the shopping centers in the Financial District; the Artisan Market or specialized stores in La Mariscal area, where you will be able to shop and to finish the afternoon in a Coffee Place of the zone. Museo Inti-Ñan Galeria Ecuador ROUTES OF SPECIAL INTERESTS Calle La Ronda La Ronda One of the oldest and at the same time more traditional streets at Quito s old town. Bohemian site that offers cafeterias, art, restaurants, sounds and flavors that are enjoyed so much by the inhabitants of Quito as well as by the city s visitors. This it is definitively a must see place to know better this city. 22

23 Street of the 7 crosses Along Garcia Moreno Street, there are 7 crosses at the entrance of each church located on this way: Santa Bárbara, La Concepción, La Catedral, El Sagrario, La Compañía, Carmen Alto and Hospicio San Lázaro. On this street you can also visit: Carondelet Palace, Metropolitan Cultural Center, Numismatic Museum, among other spots or important buildings. Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús Parks Featuring more than 20m2 of green areas per person, Quito features a complete system of parks, such as: La Carolina Park Guanguiltagua Metropolitan Park Itchimbía Park El Ejido Park La Alameda Park Las Cuadras Park 23

24 Plazas Quito s squares have been important places in the city, where public and social events and even markets have taken place since colonial times to our days; among others you can visit: Independence or main Square (Plaza Grande) Santo Domingo Square San Francisco Square Las Conceptas Square Theatre Square Foch Square or Plaza Foch Museums Quito has a great variety of museums and cultural centers in the whole city. Below you will find a small sample listing divided in the different areas: South of the city: Museum of the Train Interactive Museum of Science (MIC) Oldtown: Museum of the city Fray Pedro Gocial Museum (San Francisco) Casa del Alabado Museum Numismatic Museum Historic Wax Museum A.M. Caamaño Center for contemporary art 24

25 La Mariscal Area and Financial District: National Museum Mindalae Museum Capilla del Hombre Museum Quito Tour Bus The Quito Tour Bus runs each hour and takes approximately 3 hours to reach its final destination. The ticket is valid from to hours on the scheduled day. PRICE RANGE TO VISIT QUITO For a half-day or full day visit of the city there are price ranges going from 12,00 USD per person (Double Decker tour Bus) to rates from 29,00 USD in sharing basis to tariffs from 50,00 to 200,00 USD on private basis, depending on the type of transport, tour guide, language, lunch and entry tickets to museums and attractions. QUITO SURROUNDINGS AND CONNECTIVITY WITH OTHER ATTRACTIONS AND DESTINATIONS IN ECUADOR Mountains & Snow-capped volcanoes: Pichinchas, Cotopaxi, Rumiñahui, Sincholagua, Antisana, Cayambe, Ilinizas, Mojanda and other volcanoes and snow-capped mountains are found at less than 2 hours by car from Quito, they offer opportunities for activities such as: Trail running, hiking, mountain biking, camping, climbing and others. 25

26 Cloud Forest: The cloud forest is one of the richest ecosystems in the world, it has constant mist coming from the coast and clashes when reaches the mountains in the heights between 1,500 and 3,000 meters above sea level; home to orchids and hummingbirds. This ecosystem can be reached from Quito in a car ride that takes between 2 and 3 hours: Mindo and Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas. Indian Markets In the country, we find several indigenous markets where you can meet Andean communities, many of them exchange and sale different types of products from ancient times; one of the most known and close to Quito is the renowned Otavalo Market. Papallacta Hot Springs In several regions of the Andes, we find sources of thermal water with mineral properties that benefit the health of its visitors; the closest to Quito is Papallacta, which is located 2 hours drive from the city. Other Destinations within Ecuador from Quito: Amazon: minutes flight Pacific Coast: minutes flight Guayaquil: 40 minutes flight Cuenca: 40 minutes flight Loja: 50 minutes flight Galapagos Islands: 2h30 flight, with a stop in Guayaquil. 26

27 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ABOUT QUITO AND ECUADOR Visit the Tourism Directory in the following link: 27

28 General Concept GREAT EXPERIENCE Rodrigo Salas President Editorial Board MINTUR Cristina Rivadeneira Subsecretaria de Mercados Irene Landívar Directora de Mercados Internacionales Óscar López Coordinador de Mercados Internacionales EKOS Verónica Sevilla Coordinadora General Cristina Recalde Community Manager y Medios Digitales Alejandra Benitez Asistente Administrativa Maps & pictures Courtesy of: The communication campaign to the international industry All You Need Is Ecuador is a promotional action of the Ecuadorian Ministry of Tourism 28