Overview
Discover the picturesque capital of Quito, perched high in the Andes—warm and laid-back yet bursting with colorful markets and architectural gems that reflect a blend of Spanish, Italian, Moorish, Flemish, and indigenous designs. On this three-day extension, explore the city’s Old Town—a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Latin America’s most well-preserved historic center, where architecture dates back to the 1600s. You’ll also taste ancient To'ak chocolate, admire centuries-old indigenous art, and stroll the streets that pulse with vibrant cafes and sophisticated shops.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival
Arrive on your international flight to Quito (or, if you are already in Quito transferring from a group trip), and check in to the Hotel Mama Cuchara. Dinner tonight is on your own. Choose to enjoy the restaurant at Hotel Mama Cuchara, featuring homemade Ecuadorian cuisine and a seasonal, daily menu, or stroll into Quito’s Old Town where you’ll find a variety of options from traditional to contemporary. Overnight at hotel.
Arrival - Day 1
Hotel Mama Cuchara
Quito, Ecuador
Days 1 to 2 (2 nights)
Situated in Quito’s World Heritage-listed historic quarter, the Mama Cuchara is a restored colonial mansion with a mix of historic and modern architecture. The rooftop terrace is the perfect place to enjoy a cocktail and panoramic views over the historic quarter, and the restaurant, set in the original colonial courtyard, has a menu that changes daily to reflect Ecuador’s diverse regional cuisines. All the delights of colonial Quito are within walking distance.
Hotel Plaza Grande (Optional Upgrade)
Quito, Ecuador
Days 1 to 2 (2 nights)
Set on Quito's Plaza de la Independencia, this boutique hotel has an elegant ambiance and was among the first to be built in Ecuador's capital. Its central location right in the heart of the Old Town gives great access to many shops, restaurants, and historical sites.
Day 2
Colonial City Tour
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and head out in the late morning for a guided colonial city tour. Quito is brimming with art-filled cathedrals, cobblestone streets, lively squares, and a striking blend of architecture. Some highlights may include the majestic Plaza Grande, the ornate Presidential Palace, the monasteries of San Francisco and Santo Domingo, and the church of La Compania—a fusion of indigenous and European art made of intricate wood carvings, gold leaf adornments, and a dazzling ceiling. You’ll stop for lunch on the tour, and dinner this evening will be on your own. Your guide can give you suggestions, depending on how casual or decadent you’d like to go. Overnight at Hotel Mama Cuchara…BL
Colonial City Tour - Day 2
Hotel Mama Cuchara
Quito, Ecuador
Days 1 to 2 (2 nights)
Situated in Quito’s World Heritage-listed historic quarter, the Mama Cuchara is a restored colonial mansion with a mix of historic and modern architecture. The rooftop terrace is the perfect place to enjoy a cocktail and panoramic views over the historic quarter, and the restaurant, set in the original colonial courtyard, has a menu that changes daily to reflect Ecuador’s diverse regional cuisines. All the delights of colonial Quito are within walking distance.
Hotel Plaza Grande (Optional Upgrade)
Quito, Ecuador
Days 1 to 2 (2 nights)
Set on Quito's Plaza de la Independencia, this boutique hotel has an elegant ambiance and was among the first to be built in Ecuador's capital. Its central location right in the heart of the Old Town gives great access to many shops, restaurants, and historical sites.
Day 3
Museo Casa Del Alabado / To'ak Chocolate Tasting
Today you’ll visit the Museo Casa del Alabado located in a colonial 17th century house in the historic downtown district. The museum holds one of the most comprehensive collections of authentic Pre-Columbian art, pottery, and religious iconography in Latin America, and it contains around 5,000 archaeological objects, 500 of which are on permanent display. You’ll also partake in a To'ak chocolate tasting. To'ak is a company that produces chocolate made from a rare variety of Arriba cacao that dates back over 5,000 years, and was thought to be extinct at one point. Their handcrafted chocolate involves fermenting cocoa beans, and is currently some of the most expensive chocolate in the world. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to shop and wander through markets where you’ll find a colorful array of carvings, weavings, textiles, jewelry, and other handicrafts. In the evening, if you are joining a group tour, transfer to your meeting point. Otherwise, make your way to the airport for your homeward flight…BL
