Top Local Tips for Quito

Tram and Cafe Cultura Must ride the Tram up into the Andies ... and short hike to 14,000 ft. The oldtown is very nice too. Stay at Cafe cultura for good food, room, and cozy fire. Stay at a hotel in the Galopagos in the ports .... then do day tours or shorter cruises. This is so much lower impact than staying on a cruise boat! Remember to book as you go!

Teleferiqo Don't miss the great views of Quito & surrounding mountains from Teleferiqo. If you've spent a few days at higher elevation, the hike to the top of the mountain is amazing. We were warned that it was not safe, but we did not have any problems and mainly met families or friendly hikers on the path.

Hotel in Quito We stayed at Cafe Cultura, and it was delightful! I highly recommend this place. Unique, handpainted walls, old, interesting building, helpful concierge, reasonably priced, hotel feels safe and secure and has a nice restaurant.