Quito City Tour and Papallacta Hot Springs

Summary

Your tour begins with pickup from your Quito hotel. After meeting your guide and small group of up to 15 people, head straight to one of the city’s most prominent landmarks, Panecillo Hill. The 655-foot (200-meter) high hill is capped by a famous statue of the Virgin Mary, but the real highlight is the view, which spans the entire city. Descend into the Old Town and enjoy a walking tour of Quito’s UNESCO-listed monuments, as your guide tells you more about the city’s colonial history. Along the way, stroll through the colorful La Ronda district; explore the bustling Plaza Grande, formerly known as Plaza de la Independencia; and visit the magnificent Gothic Basílica del Voto Nacional. After stopping for lunch at a local restaurant (included), set out on the drive to the Papallacta hot springs, admiring the scenery as you wind through the Ecuadorian Andes. Then, spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing at the spa and bathing in the five thermal pools, where the volcanic spring waters boast temperatures ranging from 86°F (30°C) to 158°F (70°C). After drying off, finish off your experience with an indulgent cup of hot chocolate. Back in Quito, your tour ends with drop-off at your hotel.

Tour info

Duration

11 hours

Why take this tour?

This one day cultural and relaxing Papallacta hot springs and Quito city tour takes you to the highlights of the historical centre of Quito, the capital of Ecuador and to the beautiful Papallacta hot springs. This is the perfect combination for the traveler without much time. Quito is listed on the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage archive. It was founded in the 16th century on the ruins of an Inca civilization (Tahuantinsuyo) and stands at an altitude of 2,800 m. Papallacta is a small Ecuadorian highlands village located at the Andes mountain range (east side) and about 1.5 hours away from Quito. Papallacta is known for its famous hot springs. The source temperature of the thermal baths varies between 30°C and 70°C (86°F and 158°F).

What’s included?

Professional driver/guide (English speaking)
Transportation from and to Quito’s hotel (urban zone)
Meals as described in the itinerary (local lunch x1 and hot chocolate x1)
Activities as described in the itinerary
Locker at Papallacta hot springs
24/7 assistance in Dutch, English and Spanish
Extra drinks and food
Optional tips for guide

Things to know

Before you book

Duration: 11h 30m
Mobile tickets accepted
Instant confirmation

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Operator Website

Operated by:

About operator:

Rebecca and her team specialize in 'tailor-made' authentic and adventurous private trips in the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador, Peru & Colombia. All tours are personally selected by Rebecca, which will be your guarantee for authentic (preferably family-owned) hotels, high-quality tours, great service, and last but not least, value for money.