Quito's historical center has mesmerized travelers for centuries and was acknowledged as the inaugural city to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978. The ancient town showcases cobblestone streets and Spanish-style residences with garden courtyards that date back centuries, making it the most extensive and best-preserved historical center in South America. Nearly every block in this area is adorned with colonial churches, which exhibit Baroque art, classic Catholic iconography, and exquisite Arabesque patterns and motifs. Noteworthy architectural marvels that must be seen include the breathtaking Iglesia de La Compañía and Iglesia San Francisco, both showcasing gold leaf, Christian symbolism, and the mastery of the Baroque style.
An unmissable attraction is the Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesus, located in Quito's historic center, and hailed as one of the most splendid and awe-inspiring churches in Latin America. Constructed by the Jesuits between 1605 and 1765, this church took nearly 160 years to complete. The interior of the church is a true masterpiece of Baroque art, with copious amounts of gold leaf adorning the walls, pillars, and ceilings. The decoration also boasts stunning paintings, sculptures, and intricate designs, which showcase the Jesuits' unwavering commitment to creating an astonishing temple.
Quito's Plaza Grande, also known as the 'large square,' is the heart of the city, where activity seems to converge from every corner. Some of the most renowned buildings, including the Presidential Palace, City Hall, the Archbishop's Palace, and Quito's Cathedral, as well as the Centro Cultural Metropolitano, surround this square. The square offers an ideal spot to unwind and appreciate the remarkable architecture and emblematic heritage trees, including endemic Andean palms. Colonial Quito presents captivating sights and panoramic vistas, providing ample opportunities for photography, particularly from the numerous towers overlooking the expansive plazas.
Apart from the architectural wonders and breathtaking views, Quito is also known for offering some of the world's finest premium dark chocolates. Ecuador is renowned for cultivating some of the planet's best cacao, and tours of the Colonial section often include visits to chocolatiers and shops. For an even more unforgettable experience, Quasar offers excursions to the domes of Santo Domingo Church & Convent or via an aerial tram to the summit of Pichincha volcano, offering one of the most comprehensive views of the renowned Avenue of the Volcanoes.
Experience one of the oldest & largest indigenous market in the Andes
Experience the Andean Hacienda Highlands Countryside
Staying in a comfortable country inn or hotel near the airport the night before avoids our guests' long drives and the city traffic. Also, there will be no need to wake up unnecessarily early to travel to the airport, allowing them to enjoy a better night’s sleep and feel more refreshed for your next day's flight or adventure.
The Otavalo highlands represent the Central Andes at its most essential. With its large and traditional indigenous population, numerous lakes, stunning green volcanoes, traditional craft villages, historic Spanish colonial haciendas, and the world-famous Otavalo market, the region is a beautiful combination of culture cradled in natural beauty.
Otavalo’s colorful and buzzing market is open daily, where you can haggle for astonishingly beautiful hand-made crafts, including a vivacious array of textiles. The surrounding villages, where we typically take time to visit local artisans, specialize in specific crafts including Peguche (weaving), Cotacachi (leather), and the last baroque woodcarving masters at San Antonio village.
The region is known for its historic haciendas including Pinsaqui, where the great liberator, Simon Bolivar, used to stay and where we usually have lunch, as well as Hacienda Cusin and breathtaking Zuleta, once the home of much loved former Ecuadorian President Galo Plaza.
En route to Otavalo, we visit Quitsato sundial to learn what ancient Ecuadorians knew about the equator. For more active travelers there is the opportunity for a full or partial hike of breathtaking Cuicocha Lake, set in a volcanic crater featuring two lava islands, or Mojanda moorlands and lakes.
