Private Quito Old District Tour & Teleferico including entrances

Discover Quito’s Historic Charm and Mountain Views in One Seamless Day

This 6-hour private tour offers an engaging way to familiarize yourself with Quito’s lively Old Town and its surrounding natural beauty. For $109 per person, you’ll visit iconic sites like the San Francisco Church, La Compañía, and the Plaza Grande, then finish with a ride on the Teleferico, reaching an incredible 13,000 feet with panoramic views of the city and volcanoes. Your guide, like Daniel, will provide a fully narrated experience, weaving history and local color into your exploration.

What we especially appreciate is the combination of cultural walking and breathtaking vistas—it’s a well-balanced mix that offers both an understanding of Quito’s colonial past and a chance to see its stunning natural landscape. Plus, the hotel pickup and private transport make for a relaxed, hassle-free day. On the flip side, one consideration is that the tour’s success hinges on good weather; as one reviewer noted, cloudy conditions can obscure the views from the Teleferico, but you’ll still get a chance to explore Quito’s historic center.

This tour suits travelers who value authentic city exploration paired with a spectacular natural viewpoint. It’s perfect for those seeking a comprehensive Quito experience in a manageable timeframe, especially if you prefer intimate guided visits over large group tours.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with entrance fees and hotel pickup
• Cultural highlights include La Compañía, Plaza de la Independencia, and Basilica del Voto Nacional
• Spectacular views from the Teleferico at 13,000 feet above sea level
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with detailed commentary
• Flexible itinerary that adapts if the Teleferico is closed
• Comfortable private transportation ensures a smooth day

An In-Depth Look at Quito’s Historic and Natural Treasures

When booking a tour like this, you’re generally looking for a balance between culture and spectacular scenery. This private Quito Old District Tour with Teleferico checks both boxes, giving you a taste of colonial Quito’s grand architecture alongside the chance to take in sweeping views of the city and volcanic peaks—an excellent combination packed into six hours.

Starting the Day: City Highlights and Historic Streets

Your day begins with a prompt pickup at your hotel—something truly appreciated for avoiding the hassle of navigating Quito’s busy streets on your own. The guide, fluent in English and Spanish, will help you understand what you’re seeing, making the experience more engaging.

The first stop is the Fundacion Iglesia de la Compañía, arguably Quito’s most ornate church, with its unmistakable green-and-gold domes. Its baroque interior is a highlight, and the fact that the entrance fee is included means you won’t need to worry about extra costs. A quick 30-minute visit allows you to admire its intricate gilded altar and ceiling artwork, which many visitors find awe-inspiring.

Next, a short stroll takes you to Plaza de la Independencia, the city’s central square. Here, you can gaze at the Cathedral and the Government Palace, both impressive structures that narrate Ecuador’s political past. As one reviewer pointed out, the evening lighting makes this area particularly beautiful, adding a romantic glow to the historic buildings.

Architectural Marvels and Colonial Churches

Continuing your walk, the Basilica del Voto Nacional offers a neo-Gothic spectacle—its gargoyles and spires looming over the city. Though only a brief stop (10 minutes), it’s worth noting that the façade’s gargoyles are more than just decorative—they symbolize Ecuador’s diverse fauna, which is a fun detail for nature lovers.

The San Francisco Church and Santo Domingo’s Church deepen your understanding of Quito’s colonial past. These churches, along with the Company Church, are part of the network that makes Quito a UNESCO World Heritage site. As one review emphasizes, the tour’s guide “was extremely knowledgeable about Quito and surroundings,” which helps bring these sites to life.

The Government Palace and Local Flavors

A quick stop at El Palacio de Gobierno provides insight into Ecuador’s political heart. It’s situated on Independence Square, making it a natural photo op. Though you don’t enter the palace, the exterior and the lively square provide a sense of Quito’s civic spirit.

Reaching New Heights: The Teleferico Adventure

After exploring the historic center, your adventure takes you to the Teleferico Quito. This cable car, running from the city edge up the Pichincha Volcano to Cruz Loma, is one of the most memorable parts of the tour. The ride itself lasts about 40 minutes each way and ascends to 13,000 feet, offering views that stretch across Quito and beyond.

Once at the top, you’ll have approximately an hour to soak in the scenery, take photos, or simply breathe in the thin mountain air. For many, this is the highlight—standing above the city and volcanoes, marveling at the sheer scale of the landscape.

One reviewer mentioned that cloudy weather can obscure the vistas, and this is true—if the weather is clear, you’ll enjoy unforgettable panoramic views. If not, you can still appreciate the cool mountain air and the experience of being at such altitude.

Flexibility and Weather Considerations

If the Teleferico is temporarily closed—perhaps due to weather or maintenance—the tour adapts by visiting Panecillo and entering the Compañia Church instead, ensuring your day remains full and interesting.

Practical Details: What to Know

• The tour is fully private, so your group enjoys personalized attention.
• The entrance fees for La Compañía and the Teleferico are included, reducing unexpected costs.
• Round-trip transportation from Quito hotels simplifies logistics, especially after a busy morning.
• The tour operates rain or shine, but clear weather enhances the experience.
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the city’s uneven cobblestones and stairways.
• The tour starts promptly at 8:30 am, so planning ahead is key.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback from Travelers

Reviews highlight how guides like Daniel make the experience memorable. One traveler called the tour “excellent and informative,” praising the guide’s punctuality and knowledge. Others appreciated the stunning views from the Teleferico, though some noted that weather conditions can spoil the vista—an unavoidable aspect of mountain excursions.

One less favorable review pointed out a slight delay in guide arrival and some organizational hiccups, but these seem isolated and unlikely to detract significantly from the overall experience.

Many visitors also mention enjoying the small chocolate tasting included, which adds a delicious local touch to the tour.

Summing Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This private Quito tour offers a balanced mix of culture, history, and natural beauty—ideal if you’re keen to see key sites without the hassle of independent planning. The inclusion of entrance fees and hotel pickup makes it a good value, especially considering the personalized service.

It’s best suited for first-time visitors who want context and narration, as well as those eager to enjoy Quito’s top sights in one manageable day. If weather permits, you’ll love the spectacular views from the Teleferico; if not, you’ll still walk away with a deeper appreciation of Quito’s colonial architecture and vibrant plazas.

Travelers who enjoy walking historical streets paired with scenic mountain vistas will find this tour highly satisfying. Given the reviews’ emphasis on knowledgeable guides and the overall smooth organization, it’s a safe, reliable choice for a memorable Quito experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from select Quito hotels is included in the price, simplifying your day.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, starting at 8:30 am; it includes city sightseeing and the Teleferico ride.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, admission to La Compañía Church and the Teleferico are covered in the tour price.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes for walking are recommended, and dress appropriately for weather conditions, especially at higher altitudes.

What happens if the Teleferico is closed?
If the cable car isn’t operating, the tour will visit Panecillo and include entrance to the Compañia Church instead.

Can I customize the tour?
Since this is a private experience, your guide can focus on your interests within the given itinerary.

Is this tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, it operates in all weather conditions, but cloud cover may limit views from the Teleferico.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers guide services, hotel pickup/drop-off, transportation, entrance fees for La Compañía and Teleferico, and a small chocolate tasting.

How many people typically join?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, offering personalized attention.

How early should I book?
Most travelers book about 60 days in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure availability.

To sum it up, this private Quito tour offers an excellent way to combine history, architecture, and panoramic mountain views—all in one manageable and enjoyable package. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply eager to see Quito from above, you’ll find this tour offers a solid combination of value, expert guidance, and authentic experiences. Just remember to check the weather forecast and bring your camera—because some of the best moments happen at 13,000 feet, looking out over Ecuador’s stunning landscape.