Between Murals & Flavors: Modern Quito Walking Tour

3 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English and 1 more

This tour offers a completely different way to experience Quito—beyond traditional sightseeing. Instead of just visiting landmarks, you’ll connect with the city through its urban art, local flavors, and creative neighborhoods.

What makes it special is the balance between culture, gastronomy, and storytelling. You’ll walk through La Mariscal and La Floresta with a local guide who brings each mural, market, café, and hidden corner to life with context and meaning.

You’ll discover authentic places most travelers miss: artisan markets, independent cinemas, bohemian streets, and contemporary art spaces—ending with a high-quality Ecuadorian chocolate tasting.

It’s an immersive, small-group experience designed for travelers who want to feel Quito, not just see it.

What's Included

Soft drink at the Ocho y Medio Cinema café, a cozy cultural space in La Floresta, perfect for a refreshing break during your experience.
Visit to La Mariscal Artisan Market
Visit to Santa Teresita Church (neo-Gothic landmark)
Professional bilingual national tour guide
Ecuadorian chocolate tasting
Tips are optional but highly appreciated. They are a great way to recognize your guide’s dedication, knowledge, and passion throughout the experience.
Personal expenses

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Arco de la Circasiana, El Ejido Park (Av. Patria & Av. Amazonas). Please see map for reference. Your guide will be waiting between the arch and the “El Ejido” metro station, wearing a wine-colored Kunakkuna Experiences hoodie.

End point
Paccari Experience House

The tour ends at Paccari Casa de Experiencias Floresta, in La Floresta neighborhood. It is near Plaza La Floresta, Av. Isabel La Católica, and surrounded by cafés, restaurants, and art spaces in one of Quito’s most creative and cultural areas.

Itinerary

Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
  • 1

    We will begin our experience beneath this iconic arch, where your guide will warmly welcome you. Here, you’ll learn about the fascinating history of this landmark, a symbolic gateway to one of Quito’s most emblematic and vibrant districts.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2

    An open-air space where you’ll discover the lives and legacy of key historical figures such as García Moreno, Eloy Alfaro, Velasco Ibarra, and Vicente Rocafuerte. Their leadership and decisions played a fundamental role in shaping Ecuador’s history and identity.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Mercado Artesanal La Mariscal

    Quito’s largest artisan market and a smaller counterpart to Otavalo’s famous Plaza de Ponchos. Here you’ll discover a wide variety of Andean handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. You’ll also have free time to browse and find the perfect keepsake from your visit.

    20 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4

    The second neo-Gothic church built in Quito, this architectural gem beautifully blends history, faith, and art in every detail. A striking landmark that reflects the city’s rich religious and cultural heritage.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5

    Castles of La Mariscal: Enjoy a charming walk along Roca Street, between Amazonas and 6 de Diciembre avenues, where you’ll discover unique buildings that look like they came straight out of a fairytale. These architectural gems stand as witnesses of La Mariscal’s golden era.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 6

    La Mariscal Historic Villas Area: Here we’ll revisit how elegant villas and country homes once shaped La Mariscal in the mid-20th century, a period of transformation and urban growth that marked a new chapter in Quito’s history. Mona Caron Mural: A striking large-scale urban artwork that celebrates nature, resilience, and cultural identity through powerful visual storytelling.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 7

    Salesian University Mural: Another remarkable piece of Quito’s urban art scene, featuring powerful messages of identity, culture, and creativity. This vibrant mural reflects the city’s contemporary artistic expression and its connection to social and cultural narratives.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 8

    Visit a local market with a modern touch, hidden within Quito’s bohemian La Floresta neighborhood. This traditional space offers an authentic glimpse into everyday local life, where you’ll connect with the city’s culture, flavors, and community spirit.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 9

    We will explore the vibrant streets of Valladolid, Vizcaya, Lugo, Guipúzcoa, and Coruña, discovering colorful murals, independent galleries, cozy cafés, and hidden corners. This walk reveals La Floresta as one of Quito’s most dynamic cultural and creative districts.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 10

    A landmark of independent cinema in Quito, founded in 2001 and located in the La Floresta neighborhood. Dedicated to auteur films, Ecuadorian cinema, and non-commercial productions from around the world, it also serves as a vibrant cultural hub hosting workshops, events, and screenings. Here we will take a break at its cozy café, the perfect place to recharge and enjoy a warm drink before continuing the experience.

    20 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 11
    Paccari Experience House

    We will conclude the experience with a guided tasting of fine aroma cacao chocolates, crafted by Paccari, internationally recognized for its exceptional quality and unique flavor profile. A perfect final touch that celebrates Ecuador’s world-renowned chocolate heritage.

    30 minutes Admission ticket included

Additional info

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Supplied by Kunakkuna Experiences
Show 1 more

Tags

Half-day Tours
Private and Luxury
Historical Tours
Art Tours
Walking Tours
Chocolate Tours
Street Art Tour
Food & Drink
Zombie
Zombie Slice
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Show more
from per person
Was {{formatPrice(summaryFromPriceBeforeDiscount, currency, 2)}}