Private Tour Mitad del Mundo & Pululahua's Crater Hike
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Enjoy a day trip to the Middle of the World Monument and top it off with a hike in the Pululahua. This crater was declared a National Park in 1969, becoming the first to do so in Ecuador and in South America. You will take memorable pictures at the Equatorial line and then enjoy the hillsides of the Pululahua, which are a Geobotanical Reserve that protects more than 53 botanic species and 21 animal species. Your tour includes a professional guide and transport.
Available options
Day Tour without lunch
Enjoy of an spectacular view in The Pululahua Volcano and about 3 hours hike inside of the inhabited crater<br/>Pickup included
Day Tour including lunch
Enjoy of an spectacular view in The Pululahua Volcano and about 3 hours hike inside of the inhabited crater<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Lunch (if option selected)
Professional guide
Bottled water
All activities
Transport by private vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Just north of Quito, in a parish called San Antonio de Pichincha, lies the most visited attraction in the country, the Mitad del Mundo monument and complex dedicated to the equator and the fact that Quito lies only a handful of kilometers from it. A tourist’s favorite will forever be the iconic picture of them standing on the thin yellow line painted on the cement that (fictitiously) divides the planet in two. T
2
Stop 2
“A peaceful paradise for the nature lovers”, “a jewel”, “a secret near Quito”, are some of the descriptions used today by the people that visit the reserve for the first time. This mystical place is also believed to have a great concentration of “Nature´s Energy” for being almost on the equatorial line and above an active volcano. The people, who live here, do not want to leave it, and the visitors always feel at peace and want to stay longer.
3
Stop 3
The Intiñan Museum is located just outside of Quito right next to the Mitad del Mundo monument. Most people know that Mitad del Mundo's equator line is a bit off. Intiñan has its own marker and it's closer to the right spot.
What's not included
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Lunch (if option not selected)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
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Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Minimum age is 5 years
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
Important notes
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• If you will not be arriving at your destination within the specified reconfirmation period, please reconfirm with the local service provider prior to travel, or upon arrival at your destination. Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.
• The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions
Hotel pickups commence prior to this time
Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.
About Quito
Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is a vibrant city nestled in the Andean highlands. It is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, rich cultural heritage, and stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern urban life.
Top Attractions
Historic Center of Quito
The Historic Center of Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring well-preserved colonial architecture, churches, and plazas.
Historical
Half to full day
Free to visit the plazas and streets; entry fees for churches and museums
TelefériQo
A cable car that takes visitors to the top of Cruz Loma for breathtaking views of Quito and the surrounding volcanoes.
Adventure
1-2 hours
Moderate
Mitad del Mundo
A monument marking the equator, where you can stand in both the northern and southern hemispheres at once.
Historical
Half day
Moderate
Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve
A unique crater reserve with hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and a chance to see local flora and fauna.
Nature
Half to full day
Budget
Basílica del Voto Nacional
One of the largest neo-Gothic basilicas in South America, offering stunning architecture and panoramic views from its towers.
Religious
1-2 hours
Budget
Capilla del Hombre
A museum dedicated to the works of Ecuadorian artist Oswaldo Guayasamín, featuring his paintings and sculptures.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Llocro de Papa
A hearty potato soup with cheese, avocado, and sometimes meat.
Dinner
Vegetarian options available
Cuy Asado
Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish.
Dinner
Contains meat
Encebollado
A fish soup with yuca, onions, and tomatoes, often served with pickled onions.
Lunch
Contains fish
Empanadas de Viento
Fried empanadas filled with cheese and sometimes meat, dusted with sugar.
Snack
Vegetarian options available
Popular Activities
Hiking in Cotopaxi National Park
Zip-lining in Mindo Cloud Forest
Paragliding over Quito
Soaking in Papallacta Hot Springs
Visiting La Ronda Street for live music and performances
Exploring the Historic Center at a leisurely pace
Visiting museums and cultural attractions in the Historic Center
Exploring local markets and shopping areas
Best Time to Visit
June to September
This is the dry season with clear skies and pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F)
54°F to 68°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
GMT-5
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Quito is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of pickpocketing, scams, and unsafe taxis. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
- • Use official taxis or app-based services for safer transportation.
- • Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas.
Getting there
By air
- Mariscal Sucre International Airport • 18 km (11 miles) from city center
By bus
Quito Bus Terminal (Ofelia)
Getting around
Public transport
Quito has a well-developed bus system, including the Trolebús and Ecovía, which are affordable and efficient.
Taxis
Available • Apps: InDriver, TaxiApp
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Historic Center (Centro Histórico)
La Floresta
González Suárez
El Panecillo
Day trips
Cotopaxi National Park
50 km (31 miles) south of Quito • Full day
A stunning national park featuring the Cotopaxi volcano, hiking trails, and wildlife.
Mindo Cloud Forest
80 km (50 miles) northwest of Quito • Full day
A lush cloud forest with hiking trails, waterfalls, and a variety of wildlife.
Papallacta Hot Springs
65 km (40 miles) northeast of Quito • Half to full day
Natural hot springs nestled in the Andes, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
Festivals
Fiestas de Quito • Early December
Inti Raymi • June 21-24
Semana Santa • March or April (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Visit the Historic Center early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
- Try local street food and snacks, such as empanadas, hornado, and choclo con queso.
- Use the Metrocable for a unique and scenic way to reach the historic center and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
- Be cautious of altitude sickness, as Quito's high elevation can cause headaches, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Drink plenty of water, take it easy, and allow time to acclimate.
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
