How to Avoid Tourist Traps in Quito, Ecuador

1. Local Markets

Experience authentic Ecuadorian culture by visiting local markets like La Mariscal and El Ejido. Avoid overpriced souvenirs at tourist shops.

Authentic Products: Find locally-made goods, fresh produce, and traditional food items
Avoid Tourist Prices: Bargain for lower prices without feeling like a tourist trap.
Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the daily life of Quiteños

Enjoy panoramic views of Quito from the top of El Pichincha at TelefériQo. Avoid lines and overpriced food at the base station.

Panoramic Views: Take in breathtaking views of Quito and the surrounding volcanic landscape
Skip the Lines: Buy tickets online or arrive early to avoid long lines.
Pack a Picnic: Save money by packing your own food and snacks

Visit the Mitad del Mundo monument to straddle the equator. Avoid tourist traps with high-pressure sales tactics.

Equatorial Line: Stand on the actual equator and perform science experiments.
Avoid High-Pressure Sales: Decline any offers from vendors trying to sell you trinkets or services.
Admission Options: Choose between the main monument and nearby attractions like the Intiñan museum

Dine at locally-owned cafes and restaurants in Quito. Avoid tourist traps with overpriced menus.

Authentic Eats: Taste traditional Ecuadorian dishes like ceviche, empanadas, and cuy.
Affordable Prices: Find affordable, delicious meals in neighborhoods like La Floresta.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals or hotel staff for their favorite spots

Discover the historical charm of Old Town Quito. Avoid tourist traps with overpriced shopping and services.

Historical Architecture: Explore beautiful colonial churches, squares, and monasteries.
Bargain for Souvenirs: Negotiate prices at shops to avoid overpaying.
Find Hidden Gems: Wander the narrow streets and discover lesser-known attractions

Visit La Basílica del Voto Nacional, one of the largest neo-Gothic churches in the world. Avoid tourist traps with pushy vendors.

Impressive Architecture: Marvel at the intricate gargoyles, stained glass windows, and towering spires.
Avoid Vendor Pressure: Walk confidently past vendors trying to sell trinkets or services.
Hidden Details: Look for the hidden faces, animals, and other details in the stonework

Relax and enjoy nature at Parque La Carolina. Avoid tourist traps with overpriced food and drink options.

Natural Beauty: Take a stroll through the lush park, admiring native flowers, trees, and birds.
Pack a Picnic: Save money by bringing your own food and drinks.
Outdoor Activities: Participate in activities like yoga, dance classes, or outdoor concerts

Visit El Panecillo for stunning views of Quito and the Virgin of Quito statue. Avoid tourist traps with overpriced food and services.

Stunning Views: Take in panoramic views of Quito and the surrounding volcanic landscape.
Skip the Lines: Arrive early or late to avoid lines at the statue's base.
Pack a Picnic: Save money by packing your own food and snacks

Learn about Ecuador's indigenous cultures at Museo Mindalae. Avoid tourist traps with overpriced entry fees.

Indigenous Artifacts: Explore artifacts, textiles, and tools from various indigenous cultures.
Bargain for Souvenirs: Negotiate prices at the museum's gift shop to avoid overpaying.
Cultural Education: Learn about the history and customs of Ecuador's indigenous communities

Experience the nightlife in La Ronda, Quito's historic street. Avoid tourist traps with overpriced drinks and food.

Historical Nightlife: Enjoy traditional music, dance, and drinks in a beautiful, historic setting.
Bargain for Drinks: Negotiate prices at bars to avoid overpaying.
Find Local Favorites: Ask locals for their favorite bars or clubs

Visit Quito's night markets to find unique souvenirs and street food. Avoid tourist traps with overpriced items.

Unique Souvenirs: Find locally-made goods, traditional textiles, and handicrafts.
Bargain for Prices: Negotiate prices to avoid overpaying.
Taste Street Food: Sample traditional Ecuadorian dishes like empanadas, ceviche, and cuy

Learn about pre-Columbian art at the Casa del Alabado Museum. Avoid tourist traps with overpriced entry fees.

Pre-Columbian Artifacts: Explore intricate, ancient artifacts made from stone, gold, and pottery.
Bargain for Souvenirs: Negotiate prices at the museum's gift shop to avoid overpaying.
Cultural Education: Learn about Ecuador's pre-Columbian history and civilization

Visit San Augustin Church, a beautiful example of Baroque architecture. Avoid tourist traps with overpriced entry fees.

Baroque Beauty: Marvel at the ornate gold altar, intricate stone carvings, and stunning frescoes.
Skip the Line: Arrive early to avoid lines at the church's entrance.
Free Religious Services: Attend a free religious service (if available during your visit)

Join a food tour to discover Quito's authentic cuisine. Avoid tourist traps with overpriced, mediocre meals.

Authentic Cuisine: Taste traditional Ecuadorian dishes in local restaurants and markets.
Expert Guides: Learn about the history, culture, and culinary traditions of Quito from knowledgeable guides.
Skip the Lines: Avoid lines at popular restaurants and markets with pre-arranged reservations

Learn about Ecuador's history at the Casa de la Moneda Museum. Avoid tourist traps with overpriced entry fees.

Historical Artifacts: Explore gold and silver coins, colonial furniture, and historic documents.
Bargain for Souvenirs: Negotiate prices at the museum's gift shop to avoid overpaying.
Cultural Education: Learn about Ecuador's history, economy, and political system