How to visit the Equator from Quito
I recently spent two nights in Quito, Ecuador on a layover and let's just say I was heart-eyed the entire time.
The gorgeous, sprawling city nestled in the Andean foothills is a place of true dazzle. Whether it's the active volcano Pichincha holding court over the skyline, the clouds hovering moodily overhead, or the chaos of cars and motorbikes clogging the colorful streets, Quito will take your breath away - literally. At 9,350 feet above sea level (that's 4,000 feet higher than Denver!), the city is the second-highest capital in the world.
If you're in the area, one of the things you cannot miss is the opportunity to visit the Equator. Located just 40 minutes outside of Central Quito, Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World) is the place to go to put one foot in the Northern Hemisphere and one in the Southern - not to mention, celebrate all that makes Ecuador such an incredible country.
Wanna go? Here's what you need to know:
Getting there
Via private transport: The easiest (and best, IMO) way to get to the Equator is to hire a driver or hop in a cab. We arranged for a driver through our hotel and it was s e a m l e s s. Our guy picked us up, took us to Mitad del Mundo, waited while we explored for a few hours, drove us back to Central Quito (where he joined us for yummy ceviche and beers at an amazing spot overlooking the city!), and dropped us off at our hotel at the end of the night. After tip, this cost $20 per person for a party of 3 - an absolute steal!
Via tour bus: Quito Tour Bus departs on Saturday and Sunday afternoons from the Boulevard of the United Nations. The fare costs USD$30 per person and includes roundtrip transportation on a double-decker bus, a bilingual guide, a tour of Mitad del Mundo, and access to all of the attractions inside.
Via public bus: Hop on the Mitad del Mundo Line along Avenida Occidental. It runs all day, and arrives approximately every five minutes. The best part? It's only $0.40 to ride!
What to see
Mitad del Mundo is its own little town, complete with shops selling traditional souvenirs and handicrafts, convenience stores, restaurants, a planetarium, displays on Ecuadorian history, and (of course) a monument marking the latitude of the Equator.
What it costs
Entry into Mitad del Mundo is ticketed. You can purchase tickets on-site for USD$5 for adults, and $2.50 for children ages 5-12. (Tickets are already paid for if you choose to visit via the Quito Tour Bus.) It's best to bring extra cash for any souvenirs or food you may want to buy once you're there!
What to bring
Due to the high altitude, Quito and its portion of the Equator experience a fairly consistent climate of mild days and cooler nights, with lots of rain. Be prepared with a rain jacket and/or extra layers for your visit!
Here's what else to have on hand:
Sunscreen
Camera
Passport (if you feel comfortable bringing it, you can get it stamped at the Equator!)
Comfortable walking shoes
And that about sums it up! Quito is a truly beautiful city, filled with the warmest people and some incredible sights. If you're in the area you can't miss out on the opportunity to set foot along the Equatorial Line - the experience will have you lost in a marvel you can find only in the middle of the world.
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