Half-Day Market and Ecuadorian Gastronomy Tour in Quito

Quito , Ecuador

Half-Day Market and Ecuadorian Gastronomy Tour in Quito

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About this experience

If you are a food lover, or just want to get to know the gastronomy of another country, this tour is for you...!!

You will get to know the new city, in the middle of its parks and buildings, you will visit restaurants that offer Ecuadorian food, you will have an explosion of flavors in your mouth, while you learn the history of food and your guide explains fun stories and secret places. ☺️

You can also visit the “Artisan Market” if you want to bring souvenirs from the country, such as ponchos, hats, etc., and you will visit a local market in the city where you will see fruits, food, etc.

- REMEMBER THAT THIS TOUR IS FOR “CARNIVORES AND VEGETARIANS”

- IT IS NOT A TOUR FOR “VEGANS”

- IN EACH RESTAURANT “ONE PLATE OF FOOD FOR EVERY TWO PEOPLE” IS INCLUDED.

Available options

Half-Day Market and Ecuadorian Gastronomy Tour in Quito

What's included

Certified tourist guide

In each restaurant the meal is included “ONE PLATE OF FOOD FOR EVERY TWO PEOPLE”

Detailed itinerary

Near the university sector, we will visit a restaurant where we will eat the famous “CEVICHOCHO”, this is a ceviche from the Andes, instead of fish it has grains from the mountain.

Flavors that mix between salty, citrus, sweet (an explosion of flavor)

Between Av. Patria and 6 de Diciembre is the House of Culture and in front is a McDonald's establishment. At the entrance you will meet your guide, you will recognize it by our brand “TuristiK”.

After eating, exercise is important so it is OPTIONAL, we can visit the artisan market where you can bring some spectacular souvenirs from your visit to the country, as well as ponchos, hats, etc.

Also in the same neighborhood, we will visit another restaurant where their specialty is dishes made with “PLATANO VERDE”, for example “TIGRILLO” which is cooked green plantain, with fresh cheese and egg.

As a grand finale near this university we will visit one of the most important local markets in the city “MERCADO SANTA CLARA”, where you will be able to see some fruits from Ecuador.

Here in the food court, the guide will explain some traditional dishes and you will be able to try them.

In this beautiful place we will enjoy a delicious Ecuadorian empanada, made by hand and cooked in the oven.

While the empanadas are being prepared, we will visit a “City Art Hotel” where we will observe its spectacular architecture, its history and be able to take surprising photos.

Stop at one of the best markets in Quito, where you will taste some unique local fruits and have a stop to taste some local and typical Ecuadorian dishes.

Discover true local cuisine in a clean, good and safe market

What's not included

In each restaurant each person can buy drinks

Extra food - If you want to eat any additional dishes, it is not included in the tour

Tips

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

17 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Between Av. 6 de Diciembre and Patria there is a “McDonald’s” at the entrance you will meet your guide, you will recognize him by a cap, pin or bracelet with the word “TuristiK”

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.