Hidden Quito: the heartbeat of the Historic Center- PRIVATE TOUR

4.7
(11 reviews)
Quito, Ecuador

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

What does it mean to be Quiteño?
It’s more than a place on the map — it’s a vibrant blend of history, culture, traditions, and pride. To truly understand it, you must travel back in time and wander through the streets where Quito’s story first began.

On this tour, we’ll take you through the heart of the Historic Center, uncovering the essence of the Chulla Quiteño spirit. As we explore its cobblestone streets, majestic churches, and timeless plazas, you’ll discover how history and everyday life intertwine in this living museum.

Join us on this unforgettable journey and feel the heartbeat of Quito in every corner. Let its stories, legends, and hidden charms reveal why this city is — and always will be — magical.

What's Included

Bilingual national guide (Spanish and English)
Tasting: Ecuadorian infusion
Entrance fees to the Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito
Tasting: Ecuadorian chocolate
Tasting: Traditional sweets
Tips
Basilica of the National Vow
Services not specified in the itinerary.
Church of the Society of Jesus

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Basílica del Voto Nacional, Venezuela between Caldas and Carchi. Our guide will be waiting for you in García Moreno Park, in front of the church, wearing a burgundy hoodie with the Kunakkuna Experiences logo or carrying a burgundy umbrella with our name on it.

End point

The tour will end at Plaza de San Francisco, which is a short distance from the Quito Metro station, making it easy to access other destinations in the city.

Itinerary

Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
  • 1
    Basílica del Voto Nacional

    Our guide will welcome you to the Basilica del Voto Nacional, an icon of Quito. From the outside, we will appreciate its gothic architecture and learn about the history of the famous Church of the End of the World (If you wish to climb the towers for a panoramic view of the city, the entrance fee is not included, and costs approximately $4.00). We will also visit the entrance to the Pantheon of the Presidents of Ecuador.

    20 minutes Admission ticket not included
  • 2

    En pleno corazón del Centro Histórico, la Casa Vásconez es un espacio donde la tradición y el arte contemporáneo convergen. Entre muros de adobe y luz colonial, la familia Vásconez exhibe esculturas y figuras inspiradas en el folclore andino, como la icónica Vaca Loca, convirtiendo este rincón en un verdadero tesoro artístico de Quito.

    20 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 3

    Known as the “Baroque jewel of America,” this temple is a visual spectacle where gold glitters in every corner. More than 52 kilos of 23-karat gold leaf cover the ceilings, columns, and altars, creating a magical and unique atmosphere. A place to stop, admire, and immerse yourself in the art of the legendary Quito School.

    20 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 4

    Climb to over 4,000 meters in just minutes! Enjoy a breathtaking view of Quito and the majestic Andean volcanoes. Ideal for family photos with the sky as a backdrop, or for sharing a romantic moment in the heights. In addition, at the top you can enjoy hiking, hot chocolate, and activities for adults and children.

    20 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 5
    Plaza de la Independencia (Plaza Grande)

    The heart of the Historic Center awaits us.Here we will talk about the history of Quito while capturing unique images of daily life in the city.

    20 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 6

    An icon of the city. We will climb to its highest point to enjoy a spectacular view of the Historic Center, capturing breathtaking photographs of the famous Carita de Dios.

    20 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 7

    Ubicada junto a la Catedral Metropolitana, en pleno corazón del Centro Histórico de Quito, la Iglesia de El Sagrario es una de las joyas más refinadas del arte religioso quiteño. Construida en el siglo XVII, destaca por su imponente fachada de piedra tallada y su interior ricamente decorado con pan de oro, frescos y esculturas coloniales. Originalmente concebida como capilla auxiliar de la Catedral, con el tiempo adquirió identidad propia gracias a su extraordinaria arquitectura y a la devoción que inspira. En su interior reposan valiosas obras de la Escuela Quiteña, convirtiéndola en un testimonio vivo del esplendor artístico y espiritual de la época colonial.

    15 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 8
    Fundacion Iglesia de la Compania

    We will get an inside look at one of the most impressive architectural jewels in Latin America, with its stunning interior covered in gold leaf.

    20 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 9
    Plaza de San Francisco

    We will close our tour at the majestic San Francisco Church, where we will learn about the history of the Virgin of Quito.

    20 minutes Admission ticket not included
  • 10
    Yumbos Chocolate

    Closing with a flourish: tasting the best Ecuadorian chocolate: Because Ecuador is the Land of Chocolate, we will end this tour with a delicious experience that will delight your palate.

    20 minutes Admission ticket included

Additional info

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Kunakkuna Experiences

Tags

Half-day Tours
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Additional fees
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

4.7 Based on 11 11 reviews
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