Meeting Point

Pick up from hotel in Quito.

Panecillo statue and view point.

We’ll visit the top of El Panecillo Hill, home to the Virgin of Quito a symbolic statue that represents the city. From this viewpoint, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of northern Quito, the Historic Center, and the southern part of the city. On a clear day, you can even admire the breathtaking landscape of the famous Avenue of the Volcanoes.

Basilica of the National Vow neo-Gothic church

We’ll visit the Basilica of the National Vow, a stunning neo-Gothic church built in honor of Ecuador. Its unique architectural details reflect the country’s identity, featuring gargoyles shaped like animals from the four natural regions, native flowers such as orchids, and many symbolic elements that make this basilica unique.

Heart of Quito’s Historic Center Independence Square.

Next, we arrive at the heart of Quito’s Historic Center — Independence Square. Surrounded by iconic landmarks such as the Archbishop’s Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and Carondelet Palace — the seat of the Ecuadorian presidency — this is where history comes alive. As we walk through the square, you’ll hear the fascinating stories behind Ecuador’s independence and its enduring symbols of power and faith.

“Golden Jewel of Quito,” the Church of La Compañía de Jesús

Known as the “Golden Jewel of Quito,” the Church of La Compañía de Jesús is undoubtedly one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Visitors and locals alike are captivated by its stunning beauty, which played a major role in Quito’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its dominant Baroque style, combined with exquisite gold leaf craftsmanship, makes this church truly spectacular and unforgettable.

Last traditional hat maker.

We will visit one of Quito’s most iconic figures: the last traditional hat maker. Discover how Spanish, English, and German hat styles were adapted and transformed by indigenous cultures into unique designs that tell stories of heritage and identity. And of course, you’ll see the most emblematic Ecuadorian hat—the Toquilla straw hat, often mistakenly called the Panama hat—the only hat that existed in the Americas before the arrival of the Spanish.

La Ronda, the oldest neighborhood in Quito

We will explore La Ronda, the oldest neighborhood in Quito, rich with history and charm that reflects what the city looked like in the 17th and 18th centuries. Here, we’ll visit one of the last artisans skilled in working metals like silver and bronze, creating religious figures, jewelry, and pre-Columbian designs using the traditional colonial technique of repoussé. He will provide a live demonstration and explanation of this beautiful craft, and you’ll have the opportunity to purchase unique handcrafted pieces.

Artisanal chocolate factory

And of course, no tour is complete without a sweet ending! We’ll visit an artisanal chocolate factory where you’ll learn about the rich history of Ecuador’s cacao, one of the country’s top exports, and its booming organic chocolate industry. You’ll get to taste a variety of chocolates, from 100% pure cacao to 85%, plus unique blends with coffee, berries, ginger, and chili. But I won’t spoil the rest, some surprises await!

Ending Point

At the end of the tour, we’ll return you to your hotel.