Enjoy a leisurely breakfast provided by the hotel in their lovely café and courtyard. 

This morning your guide will meet you at your hotel for a private guided walking tour of the historical center of Quito, starting with a visit to El Panecillo, the landmark hill rising at the southern edge of the historic center. Quito’s Winged Virgin statue is visible from almost anywhere in the city.  Explore Colonial Quito on foot; San Francisco church and museum of religious art, La Compania Cathedral and seven tons of gold gilding, bustling Independence Plaza, flanked by the Presidential Palace and the Cathedral of Quito.   

Lunch is at La Gloria restaurant in Ecuador and offers a unique gastronomic experience.

After lunch, you can choose from one of three activities:

In the afternoon, choose from visiting Mitad del Mundo (fun for kids) or one of the museums featuring colonial or modern art. 

1 – Drive north to Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World) and straddle both hemispheres at the same time.  Latitude zero marks the spot where a geographic expedition located the exact position of the equator. Visit the Equatorial monument and Inti Nan Museum, which displays examples of pre-Columbian life in Ecuador and has demonstrations on the unique geography, astrology, and natural sciences.

2 – Capilla del Hombre (Chapel of Man), the former home and intimate chambers of the famous modern day painter Oswaldo Guayasamin, guided by an art specialist from the museum.  

3 – Casa Del Alabado – artifacts and art from pre-Columbian times. 

Other options: Museo de la Ciudad – pre-Incan artifacts to the 20th century or “Midalae Museum”, for handicrafts, costumes, musical instruments and weapons 

Optional:  A fine dining experience awaits you at The Restaurant located in the Hotel Casa Gangotena, featuring delightful original creations using locally sourced ingredients (not included).