Quito, Ecuador Cruise Port

Quito is the capital of Ecuador and its second most populated city. It also has one of the largest, least-altered and best-preserved historic centers in the Americas. Located very near the equator, Quito is often referred to locally as “la mitad del mundo,” which translates to “the middle of the world.” Its close location to the equator and the subtropical highland climate offer spring-like weather year-round. The historical center of Quito has been a Unesco World Heritage site since 1978 and its narrow streets are perfect for wandering the historical city or “Old Town.” Not far from Old Town is New Town which has modern buildings, hotels, restaurants, museums and many more things to do and see. Featured below are a few of our favorite experiences for the cruise port of Quito, Ecuador:

• Old Town is a must-see destination with its narrow cobbled stone streets and restored colonial architecture bustling with street vendors.
   
• Visit the oldest colonial building in the city, the Monastery of San Francisco, where there are paintings, art and furniture on display.
   
• When in “the middle of the world,” be sure to head over to the Mitad del Mundo which is the Middle of the Earth Monument that straddles the equator.
   
• Head south of Quito to the Cotopaxi National Park where one of the tallest active volcanos in the world is located, Cotopaxi volcano.