Quito is one of the best base camps in South America. Within a few hours in any direction you can stand on the equator, soak in volcanic hot springs, wander a cloud forest, or gaze into a turquoise crater. Here are the trips worth your time — and how to reach each.
North: markets and equator
- Otavalo — South America’s most famous craft market, ~2 hours north.
- Mitad del Mundo — straddle the equator just outside the city.
- Pululahua crater — a living volcanic caldera next door to the equator.
West: cloud forest
- Mindo — hummingbirds, waterfalls, chocolate, and a warm, green escape from the altitude.
East: hot springs
- Papallacta — thermal pools high in the mountains on the road to the Amazon.
South: volcanoes and craters
- Cotopaxi National Park — one of the world’s highest active volcanoes.
- Quilotoa — a breathtaking turquoise crater lake.
- Baños de Agua Santa — waterfalls, the famous tree swing, and adventure (better as an overnight).
In the city
- TelefériQo & Pichincha — ride to 4,000 m for the best view of Quito.
- Old Town — the historic heart, a UNESCO gem.
How to reach them without the headache
Most of these are mountain drives, and public transport means connections and luggage juggling. A private transfer turns any of them into a simple door-to-door day: a driver who knows the roads, flight tracking if you’re coming from a landing, and the option to add an extra stop. Prepaid published rates cover Wyndham Quito Airport, anywhere in Cumbayá, and anywhere in Quito; for these day-trip destinations, ask for a quote.
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