What to do in El Quinche

Activities, attractions and tours

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Top places to visit

1. Monument to the Equator

While Quito may not be unique in its position on the equator, the Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World) Monument made it the most famous example of a city in two hemispheres. The monument is built on the historic site where a French explorer calculated the line of the equator in 1736. Visit the 98-foot (30-meter) monument and stand with one foot in each half of the world.
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Mitad del Mundo Monument featuring a square or plaza, a monument and a park

2. La Mariscal Craft Market

Peruse intriguing handicrafts and see artisans at work while you browse the stalls of the Mercado Artesanal La Mariscal (La Mariscal Craft Market). Shop for anything from clothing and jewelry to art, children’s toys and textiles. Over 100 stall holders ply their trade in the animated Mercado Artesanal La Mariscal, one of Quito’s best markets for crafts and souvenirs.
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La Mariscal Craft Market showing interior views, shopping and markets

3. Foch Square

Experience the wide-ranging and energetic nightlife of Quito amid the bright lights of the vivacious Plaza Foch (Foch Square). Once a rundown intersection in the Mariscal district, today this entertainment square is the beating heart of Quito’s nightlife scene. It’s where locals and tourists alike come to eat, drink, dance and mingle in the bars, restaurants and nightclubs. Plaza Foch is also the setting for live music events and a weekly artisan market.
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Foch Square featuring street scenes and a square or plaza

4. Catedral Metropolitana de Quito

Find a historical site rich with religious, political and artistic heritage at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito (Catedral Metropolitana de Quito), one of the oldest churches in South America. This 16th-century cathedral features an eclectic mix of architectural styles, from Gothic-Mudéjar (Moorish) to Baroque and neoclassical. Stroll through the historic cathedral to see its ornate naves, chapels, golden high altar and celebrated paintings from the Quito School of Art.
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Quito Cathedral showing a church or cathedral, street scenes and heritage architecture

5. TelefériQo Base Station

A ride on the Quito Cable Car (TeléferiQo Quito) presents a breathtaking journey to the slopes of Rucu Pichincha, a peak on the active yet safe Pichincha Volcano. Admire the views across Quito’s sprawling city center and spot rugged Andean peaks. Follow walking trails to viewpoints and a small chapel. Afterwards, enjoy some family-friendly fun at a small amusement park. The TeléferiQo Quito is one of South America’s highest cable cars and travels from around 9,843 feet (3,000 meters) to a vertigo-inducing 13,451 feet (4,100 meters).
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Quito Cable Car which includes a gondola

What to do in El Quinche

Popular places to visit

Mitad del Mundo Monument featuring a square or plaza, a monument and a park

Monument to the Equator

Stand with one foot in each hemisphere at this monument to the site where the equator is marked, then spend time in the accompanying planetarium and museum.

Monument to the Equator
La Carolina featuring a garden, flowers and wild flowers

Parque La Carolina

Parque La Carolina is just one of the places to see in Quito, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Make time for the shops and local tours in this culturally rich area.

Parque La Carolina
La Mariscal Craft Market which includes interior views, street scenes and markets

La Mariscal Craft Market

From Panama hats and wood carvings to musical instruments and hand-knitted items, this vibrant market offers a wide range of Ecuadorian souvenirs and crafts.

La Mariscal Craft Market
Foch Square featuring street scenes and a square or plaza

Foch Square

Join Quito’s pulsating nightlife, attend free concerts and shop at an artisanal craft fair at this square in the heart of Quito’s Mariscal district.

Foch Square
Quito Cable Car which includes a gondola

TelefériQo Base Station

Travel through the clouds to the slopes of an active volcano to enjoy spectacular views of Quito’s city center, the surrounding countryside and Andes mountain range.

TelefériQo Base Station
Quito Cathedral showing a church or cathedral, street scenes and heritage architecture

Catedral Metropolitana de Quito

Discover one of the oldest churches in South America, featuring an intriguing mix of architectural styles, magnificent Catholic artworks and a fascinating history.

Catedral Metropolitana de Quito
Basilica of the National Vow showing interior views, a church or cathedral and religious elements

Basilica of the National Vow

Visit this magnificent neo-Gothic landmark to admire its fine architecture and Ecuador-themed gargoyles, and the panoramic views from its immense towers.

Basilica of the National Vow
Independence Square which includes street scenes and a square or plaza as well as a large group of people

Independence Square

Rows of stately colonial buildings and a 16th-century cathedral surround this historic civic square on the site where Quito’s Old Town made its humble beginnings.

Independence Square
San Francisco Church showing a church or cathedral and street scenes

St. Francis Catholic Church

This church and monastery complex is as old as the city itself and features stunning 16th-century architecture, a converted catacomb and 3,500 artworks.

St. Francis Catholic Church

Frequently asked questions

Is El Quinche worth visiting?
Providing a mix of history and culture, there's no shortage of things to do in El Quinche. While you're here, visit Jerusalen, a major attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in El Quinche?
Begin your day with a visit to Capilla Calderon and Jerusalen. Then, tour other parts of El Quinche for tasty eats and a little retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in El Quinche?
You can't go home without visiting Jerusalen, rated the top tourist attraction in El Quinche.
Is three days enough to stay in El Quinche?
Three days is enough for a quick escape to El Quinche — you'll hit the main attractions and get a good idea of the local vibe. But if you want to truly soak it all in, book for at least a week to check out some nearby highlights too.
What are some activities to do in El Quinche with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, a schedule filled with fun activities makes all the difference. Browse our ideas for what to do in El Quinche with kids.

What to do in El Quinche for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, avid foodie or outdoor explorer, there are loads of things to do in El Quinche for adults including Buenavista.
Are there free things to do in El Quinche?
You don't need to spend piles of cash to enjoy a great holiday here. There are lots of free things to do in El Quinche for the budget-conscious visitor. Unwind in the parks, soak up the vibes at free events and festivals or ask a local tour guide for tips.