The Perfect Layover in Quito: Maximizing Your 24 Hours

Con Todo Canoa
Aug 26, 2024
2 min read

For most travelers to Ecuador, Quito's Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) is the gateway to the adventure. With its breathtaking landscapes and rich culture, Quito is more than just a stopover—it's an experience worth exploring, especially if you have a day to spare. Here’s how to make the most of your 24-hour layover in Quito before continuing your journey to the Coconut Beach Hotel in Canoa.

Evening Arrival: Soak Away the Journey

After landing in Quito, skip the city rush and head straight to relaxation. An Uber, rental car, or taxi can whisk you 45 minutes away to the serene Papallacta Hot Springs. Nestled in the Andes, this hidden gem offers private hot spring pools where you can unwind under the stars. Imagine soaking in warm, mineral-rich waters as the stress of travel melts away—perfect for recharging after a long flight. Rooms start around $100 per night, giving you access to the pools 24 hours a day.

Morning: Breathe in the Andes

Wake up early to the crisp mountain air and take a leisurely hike through the scenic trails around Papallacta. The views here are nothing short of spectacular, offering a peaceful start to your day. After your hike, enjoy a hearty breakfast before checking out and heading back to the city.

Mid-Morning: Ascend Above the Clouds

Back in Quito, your next stop is the TelefériQo Cable Car. Rising over 12,000 feet, this ride offers panoramic views of Quito sprawling beneath you. If you’re up for it, the area around the cable car station is perfect for hiking or even paragliding—an exhilarating way to take in the scenery. Aim to visit before noon when the skies are clear for the best views. Plan to spend at least an hour here, or more if you’re exploring.

Afternoon: Stand in Two Hemispheres

No visit to Quito is complete without a trip to the Ciudad Mitad del Mundo—the famous "Middle of the World" monument. Here, you can literally stand with one foot in each hemisphere, a unique photo opportunity that’s sure to make your friends back home envious. The site also offers museums and exhibits where you can learn about the indigenous cultures and the science behind the equator. Grab a bite to eat either at the site or along the way to your next destination.

Late Afternoon: Explore Quito’s Historic Heart

Wrap up your day with a visit to the stunning Basílica del Voto Nacional in Quito's historic center. This magnificent Gothic-style cathedral is one of the most important religious sites in the country. Don’t just admire it from the ground—climb up to the towers for an incredible view of the city and surrounding mountains. It’s a bit of a climb, but the vistas are worth every step. Plan to spend an hour or more exploring this architectural wonder.

Evening: Onward to New Adventures

With your perfect day in Quito complete, head back to the airport, rejuvenated and ready for the next leg of your journey to the Coconut Hotel in Canoa or beyond. Quito has given you a taste of what makes Ecuador so special—now it’s time to dive into the next adventure!