10 Days Ecuador - Andes & Amazon
10 dias

What you'll do

Day 1

Arrival in Quito, Ecuador

1

Basílica del Voto Nacional

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Stunning Neo-Gothic basilica in Ecuador

The Basílica del Voto Nacional in Quito, Ecuador is an incredible feat of architecture and spirituality. Built in the Neo-Gothic style, this Roman Catholic church is the largest such basilica in the Americas. Its construction began in 1892 with the laying of its first stone and was consecrated by Pope John Paul II in 1985. The Oblate fathers donated the land for the stunning building, designed by architect Emilio Tarlier, which remains technically unfinished to this day due to the legend that states when it is completed, the end of the world will come. With its two clock towers rising 73 meters above the ground to a rose window in the transept, this awe-inspiring sight is not to be missed! The price to climb the Basílica's towers is $2 USD.

2

Convent of San Francisco

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Living history and art in Quito

The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco, commonly known as el San Francisco is a historic Roman Catholic basilica located in the heart of the city Quito, Ecuador. Strategically built on the same spot where the Inca royal palace of Huayna Cápac once existed, the building stands tall with its Mannerist-Baroque facade and is considered one of South America's most significant architectural complexes. It houses some of the most spectacular colonial art pieces, sculptures, paintings, and even boasts its own library containing thousands of manuscripts from the 17th century. El San Francisco is much more than an area of worship— visitors can explore its plazas and courtyards, play in its gardens, and even attend performances hosted at the theater or Radio studio! One look and you'll know why it's embarking travelers for centuries!

3

Quito Metropolitan Cathedral

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Centuries-old Catholic cathedral in Ecuador

The majestic Quito Metropolitan Cathedral, known locally as " La Catedral Metropolitana de Quito", is a centuries-old Catholic cathedral located in Quito, Ecuador. This iconic structure, with its white-painted walls and prominent belltower, resides on the southwestern side of the Plaza de la Independencia (La Plaza Grande). Firstly consecrated in 1545, it was later elevated to Archdiocese in 1848 and Cathedral of Ecuador in 1995, making it the seniormost Catholic Church in the nation. The building is characterized by Gothic-Mudéjar style, containing Baroque and Neoclassical patterns. With its rich history and cultural significance, the Quito Metropolitan Cathedral has become a grand symbol of the city. Additionally, an array of intriguing artwork adorn this beautiful landmark, from Miguel de Santiago's famous painting of the Virgin Mary to the bronze rooster weather vane that crowns its transept dome. Truly, the Quito Metropolitan Cathedral is a remarkable monument worthy of admiration.

4

Church of the Society of Jesus

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Architectural monument in Quito

The renowned Church of La Compañía of Quito, located on the corner of García Moreno and Sucre, is an important architectural monument located in the historic center of Ecuador's capital city. Constructed between 1597 and 1765, this Catholic church was funded and overseen by the Jesuit Order, and features Baroque and Mudéjar styles of architecture. With its impressive volcanic stone façade, symetrical interiors and fifteen side chapels dedicated to different saints, the church is a popular tourist spot and an invaluable part of Ecuadorian heritage. It was even visited by Pope John Paul II in 1985 and Pope Francis in 2015, both of whom marvelled at the beauty of the building.

5

Middle of the World City

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Exploring Ecuadorian Culture and History

Ciudad Mitad del Mundo is a tract of land owned by the prefecture of the province of Pichincha, Ecuador. An iconic monument stands 30-meters high and is topped with a 5-tonne globe in commemoration of the eighteenth century Franco-Spanish Geodesic Mission, making it an appealing destination for curious tourists. It also includes other attractions, such as a planetarium, mini model of Quito, restaurants, local handcraft stores, and cultural events. The monument and the museum contain interesting displays of Ecuadorian culture and folklore. Touring Mitad del Mundo is recommended to anyone interested in learning more about the history and culture of Ecuador, through meaningful interactions with locals and exciting activities provided.