Quito - A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Description

Standing at an altitude of 2,850 m Ecuador was founded in the 16th century on the ruins of an Inca city. The city was the first to be named as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Quito is also a wonderful base for exploring the Galapagos Islands and the Amazon. The historic centre of the city is one of the best preserved historic areas in South America.

There is a masjid in Quito, the Assalaam Masjid on the Gral. L Plaza. Finding halal food in the city is difficult; however there are some good vegetarian restaurants in the city where you can find flavours from different parts of the world.

Quito has a number of interesting and beautiful museums. The Museo del Banco Central is one of the best known museums of the country; it features artefacts from the pre-Columbian, Colonial eras and also gold art work. Museo de la Ciudad is also a good museum to visit; it takes visitors through the social history of the country. The Museo Mindalae, The Intinan Solar Museum and the Museo Guayasamin are also good to visit.

For a unique experience, visit the Itchimbia Cultural Complex and Park. It is located on a hill towards a little further from the Old Town and has been developed beautifully. This centre holds some temporary exhibitions. Taking a walking tour of the Old Town is also recommended. Mountain biking and bicycle riding are also recommended activities while in the city. Take the Calle de la Ronda, a beautiful cobbled street, lined with shops, art galleries, cafes and restaurants.

Quito also has some beautiful parks; the Jardin Botanico is one of the must-visit places. It features different ecosystems from around the country. Take one of the highest cable cars of the world, the Teleferico to visit the eastern face of the Pichincha Volcano.

There are a number of craft shops all around the city where you can get unique crafts. Quito also has a number of shopping malls. There are some good shops at Tianguez, El Quinde and Museo Mindalae. Some of the best malls in Quito include the Quicentro, Mall el Jardin, Ventura Mall, San Luis, etc.

Quito has good connectivity of buses. There are three types of buses that run around the city, the Trolley, the Metrobus and the Ecovia. Taxis are also available in the city. Car rentals are also available but not a recommended option, as the traffic can get crowded.