Looking for unforgettable tours from Quito? Ecuador’s capital is not only a cultural and historical gem but also the perfect starting point to explore some of the country’s most breathtaking destinations. Within just a few hours’ drive, you can reach volcanoes, hot springs, cloud forests, colorful markets, and even the edge of the Amazon rainforest.
Whether you’re after adventure, culture, or relaxation, Quito offers endless options for day trips and multi-day tours that will make your stay in Ecuador unforgettable.
Why Start Your Journey in Quito?
Quito is uniquely located in the heart of the Andes at 2,850 meters (9,350 ft), surrounded by mountains, valleys, and rivers. Its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the best preserved in Latin America, filled with baroque churches, cobblestone plazas, and colonial architecture.
But what makes Quito truly special is its strategic location. From here, you can:
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Visit the Middle of the World Monument and stand on the equator.
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Explore the Andean highlands with majestic volcanoes and crater lakes.
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Travel northwest to the Mindo Cloud Forest for birdwatching and chocolate tours.
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Relax in the Papallacta hot springs high in the páramo.
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Discover authentic markets like Otavalo and Saquisilí.
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Venture into the Amazon rainforest in as little as five hours.
Top Tours from Quito (Less Than 2 Hours Away)
Cotopaxi National Park
Just 1h45 south of Quito, Cotopaxi is one of Ecuador’s most iconic landmarks. This snowcapped, cone-shaped giant rises to 5,897 m (19,347 ft), making it the highest active volcano in Ecuador.
Things to do in Cotopaxi:
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Hike along scenic trails through the páramo ecosystem.
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Cycle down volcanic slopes.
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Spot wild horses and Andean condors.
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Visit Limpiopungo Lagoon for epic views.
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Summit attempts for experienced climbers.
Learn more about our Cotopaxi tours
Mindo Cloud Forest
Only two hours northwest of Quito, Mindo is a lush paradise where the Andes meet the rainforest. Known as one of the world’s top birding hotspots, Mindo is perfect for nature lovers.
Highlights in Mindo:
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Birdwatching (world-famous Christmas Bird Count winner).
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Chocolate and coffee tours.
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Waterfalls and river tubing.
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Ziplining and canopy adventures.
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Butterfly gardens and orchid houses.
Papallacta Hot Springs and Spa
At just 1h30 from Quito, Papallacta is a relaxing escape in the high-altitude páramo. The natural hot springs are surrounded by mountains, perfect for unwinding after exploring the city.
Things to do in Papallacta:
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Soak in thermal pools.
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Enjoy spa treatments and massages.
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Stay overnight at cozy lodges.
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Hike through nearby páramo trails.
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Spot native birds and wildlife.
Discover Papallacta hot springs
Top Tours from Quito (2–3 Hours Away)
Otavalo Indigenous Market
A little over two hours north, Otavalo is home to South America’s most famous handicraft market. The Otavaleños are master weavers, musicians, and merchants, keeping their ancestral traditions alive.
Highlights in Otavalo:
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Shop for colorful textiles, ponchos, jewelry, and handicrafts.
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Visit the Saturday animal market.
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Explore nearby waterfalls and lakes.
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Try local Andean food specialties.
Cuicocha Crater Lake & Cotacachi
Close to Otavalo, Cuicocha is a stunning volcanic crater lake with two islets in the middle. At 3,246 m (10,650 ft), it’s ideal for short hikes, boat rides, and photography. Cotacachi, nearby, is famous for leather goods and handicrafts.
Quilotoa Crater Lake
Three hours southwest of Quito lies Quilotoa, a breathtaking turquoise crater lake at 3,914 m (12,841 ft).
Activities at Quilotoa:
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Hike down to the lake shore.
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Ride a mule or kayak on the lake.
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Explore the Quilotoa Loop with Andean villages.
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Learn about Kichwa culture and traditions.
Tours from Quito (3+ Hours Away)
Baños de Agua Santa
Known as the “Gateway to the Amazon,” Baños is an adventure capital surrounded by waterfalls and mountains.
Top activities in Baños:
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White-water rafting, canyoning, and ziplining.
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Swing at the “End of the World.”
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Relax in hot springs.
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Visit Pailón del Diablo waterfall.
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Explore cozy cafés and nightlife.
Misahuallí – Amazon Jungle Gateway
Just five hours east of Quito, you can step into the Amazon Basin at Misahuallí.
Activities include:
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Jungle hikes with local guides.
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Visit indigenous communities.
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Spot monkeys and exotic birds.
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River tubing and boat rides.
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Wildlife rescue centers.
Chimborazo Volcano
About four hours from Quito, Chimborazo is Ecuador’s tallest mountain at 6,263 m (20,548 ft). Due to the Earth’s bulge at the equator, its summit is the closest point to the sun.
Things to do at Chimborazo:
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Trekking in the Andean highlands.
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Spot vicuñas and wild llamas.
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Visit high-altitude refuges.
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Photograph jaw-dropping landscapes.
Longer Multi-Day Tours from Quito
If you have more time, Quito is the perfect base for longer journeys across Ecuador. Some top picks include:
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Cuyabeno Amazon Reserve (7–8 hours east).
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Cuenca & Ingapirca Ruins (8–9 hours south).
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Esmeraldas and the Ecuadorian Coast (7+ hours northwest).
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The Avenue of the Volcanoes road trip.
Ask us about customized tours from Quito
Plan Your Tour from Quito
With so many options, Quito is the ultimate hub for exploring Ecuador. Whether you’re looking for a day trip, a cultural immersion, or an Amazon adventure, our team at EcuaTouring can help you plan the perfect itinerary.
Contact us today and let’s design your dream tour from Quito!
