hours ashore on average
Ships typically dock in Quito for around — hours. That's enough time for a full island tour, a beach day, or a combination of shorter experiences.

Tours & Experiences in Quito

30 experiences available — book through our trusted partners

3 Hours Local Food Tour in Quito
3 Hours Local Food Tour in Quito
★★★★★ 5.0 (107 reviews) ⏱️ 3.0h
Food is always the best way to discover one culture, so we are going to talk about the food, traditions and history. Quito is much more than a colonial city, so join me to reach the roots of our Quito´s ancestors in this tour.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Mindo Cloud Forest Guided Private Tour
Mindo Cloud Forest Guided Private Tour
★★★★★ 5.0 (74 reviews) ⏱️ 9.0h
Stay so close to the most colorful hummingbirds, this will be your travel experience in Ecuador. The Cloud Forest is unique and is home of thousands of plants and flowers, the different trails lead to crystal waterfalls. In the afternoon we will visit either a Butterfly garden or a chocolate Factory. This is a private tour, your experienced guide will recommend the best activities according to your interests. High chances to see toucans in the wild.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Quito Old Town Free walking tour English small group Cacao Taste!
Quito Old Town Free walking tour English small group Cacao Taste!
★★★★★ 5.0 (66 reviews) ⏱️ 2.0h
Welcome to Quito! New at the city and want to explore it´s wonders? Come with us and let´s explore thousands of years of history speaking through it´s streets and remarkable buildings at the old town of Quito! In this tour we will give you a brief (3 hours tour) introduction to the city We will talk about history, architecture, customs and more Quito awaits for us!
Free cancellation VIATOR
Quito Private Tour: Old Town, Half the World and Cable Car
Quito Private Tour: Old Town, Half the World and Cable Car
★★★★★ 5.0 (58 reviews) ⏱️ 7.0h
Are you looking for a 100% private and personalized tour in the city of Quito? where you can enjoy a great adventure with your partner, family or friends. This is the right place for you. I have the license of national guide of Tourism, with some years of experience working in the area. In addition, I enjoy what I do and is in charge of operating the tours according to the tastes and needs of the tourists. Book your tour!
Free cancellation VIATOR
Otavalo Unveiled: A Day Journey Through Time and Tradition!
Otavalo Unveiled: A Day Journey Through Time and Tradition!
★★★★★ 5.0 (57 reviews) ⏱️ 8.0h
In the heart of South America, nestled just two hours north of Quito, lies the enigmatic town of Otavalo. It's not just any town; it's a pulsating epicenter of culture, art, and nature. Known far and wide for hosting the continent's most expansive Indian handicraft market, Otavalo is more than just a marketplace. It's a tapestry of vibrant colors, intricate woodwork, and masterful weaving. Beyond the bustling stalls and the hum of barter, Otavalo's soul lies in its breathtaking backdrop. Majestic peaks, serene lakes, and untouched natural reserves cradle this town, while whispers of ancient Indian villages dance in the wind. Otavalo isn't just a destination; it's an experience, a journey into the heart of a land that time forgot.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Private Full Day Experience at Papallacta Hot Springs
Private Full Day Experience at Papallacta Hot Springs
★★★★★ 5.0 (57 reviews) ⏱️ 7.0h
This tour is ideal for couples or families, in the Papallacta Hot Springs we can enjoy a unique moment of relaxation in the middle of mountains and beautiful landscapes that we will observe throughout the trip from the beginning of our tour. The Papallacta tourist complex is located near the city of Quito, approximately an hour and a half away. On this tour we have two schedules to choose from, we can leave early in the morning at 8am or in the afternoon starting at 2pm. During the journey we will make some stops to observe the Andean landscape and take several photos of the sector. When we arrive at our destination we will be able to enter the Spa to relax in its medicinal hot springs. Before returning to Quito we will make a stop to enjoy the typical gastronomy of the place, with local people who will offer us a delicious chicken or trout broth in their different ways of preparation, in this place we can also fish, without a doubt a different experience.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Active Ecuador tour 8 days
Active Ecuador tour 8 days
★★★★★ 5.0 (55 reviews) ⏱️ 192.0h
Guaranteed Departures every sunday year around Highights Quilotoa Crater Lake Cotopaxi National Park Explore Baños city Road biking The Swing of the end of the World Hike to Pailon del Diablo Waterfall Learn about the Culture of the Amazon Canyoning in the tropical rain forest Make organic chocolate fondue with your hands Learn how to use a blowgun Share time with the local indigenous people Paddle the Arajuno River Hike in the Amazon Jungle and search for medicinal plants Volcanic hot springs in Baños Stay at unique places in every location Be led by top Activexpedition experienced guides at every step you take Support sustainable travel to preserve culture and nature
VIATOR
Monkey Island,Amazon River & Native Aquatic Species - All tickets
Monkey Island,Amazon River & Native Aquatic Species - All tickets
★★★★★ 5.0 (53 reviews) ⏱️ 7.0h
See native aquatic species and then visit Monkey Island in Iquitos, a refuge for native primate species and an example of biodiversity conservation and sustainable tourism. They rehabilitate and then release Amazonian primates into their natural habitat.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Daydream in Quilotoa: Laguna's Enchanting Embrace Awaits
Daydream in Quilotoa: Laguna's Enchanting Embrace Awaits
★★★★★ 5.0 (51 reviews) ⏱️ 8.0h
In the heart of Ecuador, as dawn breaks, our journey of discovery commences. On select days, the vibrant tapestries of the Saquisilli (Thursdays) or Pujili (Sundays) markets beckon, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of indigenous life. As we traverse towards the Laguna Quilotoa, a shimmering emerald marvel cradled within a volcanic embrace, the Andean mountains stand sentinel, their majesty punctuated by the ancient Zumbahua canyon and the whispers of time in indigenous hamlets and verdant farmlands. This odyssey, winding through some of the nation's most untouched realms, pauses at an indigenous abode, where the stories of the land come alive through its people. So, brace yourself, for this is not just a journey, but an immersion - a dance of culture and nature's grandeur.
Free cancellation VIATOR
5 Days Ecuador Hot & Cold Guided Motorcycle Tour
5 Days Ecuador Hot & Cold Guided Motorcycle Tour
★★★★★ 5.0 (43 reviews) ⏱️ 120.0h
5 days | 4 nights 760 km (475 miles) Asphalt 95%, country road 5% Highland forest, rain forest, Amazon basin Anything to be expected, variable temperatures Moderate asphalt road, lovely sceneries.
VIATOR
Cotopaxi Horseback Riding Tour from Quito – Andes Adventure
Cotopaxi Horseback Riding Tour from Quito – Andes Adventure
★★★★★ 5.0 (41 reviews) ⏱️ 7.0h
Explore Cotopaxi National Park on horseback in an unforgettable journey through nature, culture, and adventure in the heart of the Ecuadorian Andes. This unique tour combines authenticity, safety, and expert guidance all within the park itself, a privilege few tours offer. You’ll ride with two experienced guides: • Your private English-speaking guide, who picks you up in Quito and stays with you all day. • A traditional chagra from Machachi, sharing his knowledge and horsemanship. Picture yourself riding along highland trails, spotting wild horses, and breathing in the fresh mountain air beneath the towering Cotopaxi Volcano. You choose the pace and duration: enjoy a 2-hour scenic ride or go deeper with up to 4 hours of horseback adventure. This isn’t just sightseeing it’s a truly immersive Andean experience.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Full Day Mindo - Cloud Forest from Quito
Full Day Mindo - Cloud Forest from Quito
★★★★★ 5.0 (40 reviews) ⏱️ 8.0h
Nestled in the lush Andean foothills, the enchanting town of Mindo is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This tour offers a perfect blend of breathtaking landscapes, incredible biodiversity, and unique cultural experiences, making it an unforgettable day in the cloud forest. The adventure begins with a visit to Alambi Hummingbird Sanctuary, a serene haven for bird enthusiasts. Next, the journey takes a thrilling turn as we ride the Tarabita, a cable car that soars over the lush forest canopy. The panoramic views of the Mindo Valley are simply breathtakin. The tour continues with a visit to the Mindo Butterfly Farm, where the magic of nature unfolds in front of your eyes. To cap off the day, indulge your senses at the Mindo Chocolate Experience. This hands-on tour takes you through the entire process of chocolate-making, from the cacao bean to the final product and sample delicious varieties of chocolate along the way.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Quito 360 Bike Tour: Modern to Old Town with Chocolate Tasting
Quito 360 Bike Tour: Modern to Old Town with Chocolate Tasting
★★★★★ 5.0 (38 reviews) ⏱️ 4.0h
Experience it on two wheels! Enjoy the beautiful city of Quito in a sustainable and unique way—don’t waste time in traffic; instead, spend it enjoying a one-of-a-kind experience on a fun, easy, and safe tour that takes you to the city’s most iconic landmarks. We’ll explore the city from its modern district to the historic center—the largest and best-preserved in Latin America—accompanied by a passionate, bilingual local guide who will not only show you the route but also share Quito’s history, legends, and hidden secrets, tailoring the ride to your interests and your pace, and best of all, with zero carbon emissions. Although Quito is located at a high altitude above sea level, 90% of our route runs along flat streets, marked bike lanes, and pedestrian-only streets. We’ll ride at a relaxed, leisurely pace, with plenty of stops to take photos and learn about the history, making the tour very accessible.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Cotopaxi + Quilotoa: Andes Tour 2 days 1 night
Cotopaxi + Quilotoa: Andes Tour 2 days 1 night
★★★★★ 5.0 (38 reviews) ⏱️ 48.0h
Our tour to Cotopaxi and Quilotoa is one of the most famous tours in Ecuador. Therefore, we confirm departures every Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday so you can book with us.
Free cancellation VIATOR
10-Day Ecuador Highlights
10-Day Ecuador Highlights
★★★★★ 5.0 (37 reviews) ⏱️ 240.0h
Discover the MAGIC of ECUADOR traveling through the Avenue of Volcanoes in the high Andes Mountains towards the best tropical Amazon destinations and explore the outdoor town of Baños, Unesco classified city of Cuenca and local indigenous market in Otavalo. On your journey, you will learn about all the different local tribes and their cultures. The Ecuador Highlights trip is the perfect combination of cultural experiences, wildlife spotting, adventure activities, and natural wonders that make Ecuador one of the most mega-divers countries on Earth. "Unique Experiences:" Visit a native local family in the middle of the Amazon jungle and look for the smallest monkey in the world (Pygmy Marmoset)    Breathtaking zig-zag train ride through the rocky slopes of the Andes and the switchbacks of the Devil's Nose
VIATOR
Hiking the Quilotoa loop in Ecuador
Hiking the Quilotoa loop in Ecuador
★★★★★ 5.0 (33 reviews) ⏱️ 24.0h
This walk is unique, you can enjoy the best landscapes and you can also meet the communities that live near the lagoon. Our guides will take you through the best paths so you can relax, enjoy nature and take the best pictures of this place.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Tour to Otavalo Cotacachi Cuicocha Peguche
Tour to Otavalo Cotacachi Cuicocha Peguche
★★★★★ 5.0 (32 reviews) ⏱️ 8.0h
This is a Private Full Day Program, you will see the amazing "Sierra"  Ecuadorian Andean Landscape, you will visit the Middle of the World site "Quitsato", here you can stand one foot in the northern and one foot in the southern hemisphere. Enjoy the visit to the Otavalo Market, home of the most colorful in Ecuador and the largest indigenous markets in South America. You have also the option to visit Cuicocha Crater Lake, Peguche Waterfall, the leather town of Cotacachi. Depending of the sites that you would like to visit, there is more options such as the Wood Carving town of San Antonio de Ibarra, or if you would like to see the Andean Condor and other birds of pray instead of visiting the market for shopping. During this day you choose the sites to be visited and the time you would like to spend on it and the time to back at your Hotel in the city, you build your own day!!
Free cancellation VIATOR
Cotopaxi and Quilotoa Volcano Tour - Lunch & Tickets included
Cotopaxi and Quilotoa Volcano Tour - Lunch & Tickets included
★★★★★ 5.0 (32 reviews) ⏱️ 8.0h
Perfect for travelers with limited time, this tour combines Ecuador’s two most iconic destinations in just one day. Start with hotel pickup in Quito and head along the Avenue of the Volcanoes to Cotopaxi, one of the world’s highest active volcanoes, where you’ll enjoy a short hike around Limpiopungo Lake. Then continue to the stunning Quilotoa Crater Lake, famous for its emerald green waters and breathtaking Andes views. This all-inclusive day trip is the ideal way to experience both Cotopaxi and Quilotoa in a single unforgettable adventure.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Chakana Reserve: Unique Andean Wildlife, Condors, Ecuadorian Hillstar & Bears
Chakana Reserve: Unique Andean Wildlife, Condors, Ecuadorian Hillstar & Bears
★★★★★ 5.0 (31 reviews) ⏱️ 8.0h
● Antisana and Chakana reserve hosts the largest Andean Condor population in Ecuador. ● Search for the emblematic Spectacled Bear in its natural habitat. ● Observe different species of hummingbirds including the outstanding Ecuadorian Hillstar. ● Visit Chakana reserve and access to the best lookout to the Condor’s nesting and roosting sites. Watch them flying at eye level and admire their greatness. ● Support local development and conservation by visiting one of Jocotoco Foundation’s Reserve,and Tambo Condor Reserve ● Enjoy the day at your own pace in the company of an experienced, specialized guide ● Take unforgettable shots of magnificent landscapes and fauna. ● For the best chances for condor sightings and pictures, chose the early start at 5:00 am
Free cancellation VIATOR
Private Tour to spotting condors at Antisana volcano all included
Private Tour to spotting condors at Antisana volcano all included
★★★★★ 5.0 (30 reviews) ⏱️ 6.0h
The best activity outdoor from the city of Quito breathtaking for the landscapes surrounding of the Antisana reserve where we have a connection with the wildlife with unique and mágic species as Andean condor the best option that you can choose if you want to connect with the nature an learn bit about of the landscapes of the Andes region that we will see
Free cancellation VIATOR
A local, professional guide to take you ANYWHERE you want!
A local, professional guide to take you ANYWHERE you want!
★★★★★ 5.0 (29 reviews) ⏱️ 1.0h
The day is yours-we can go wherever you want! Share your interests and we’ll handcraft your ideal Ecuadorian adventure—whether it's exploring Quito’s historic center, hiking Cotopaxi, visiting Quilotoa’s crater lake, or chasing waterfalls in Baños. From iconic highlights to hidden gems, we’ll create a flexible, personalized itinerary just for you. Travel like a local with your Ecuadorian guide and friend—our day could explore local eats, artesan markets, ancestral ceremonies, city architecture, volcano views, scenic drives, waterfall swims, and more! Skip conventional tourism and join us for meaningful travel. All net profits support our sister onprofit, Awaken Foundation, which empowers Indigenous and rural communities across the Amazon, Andes, and coast through health and wellbeing, education, and bioeconomics projects. When you travel with us, you support the development of self-sufficient, empowered Ecuadorian communities! So book with us and travel with purpose!
Free cancellation VIATOR
Looking for nature around Quito? Mindo cloudforest Private Tour
Looking for nature around Quito? Mindo cloudforest Private Tour
★★★★★ 5.0 (28 reviews) ⏱️ 8.0h
Mindo's cloudforest is one of the most diverse ecosistems in the planet, perfect place for birdwatching, butterflies and to find the real conexion with nature. This tour used to be more active based on itinerary, but now is focused on finding conexion with nature and to learn from it, experiencing real contact with butterflies, hummingbirds and learning about products with a chocolate tour. Located two hours from the city of Quito towards the coast. This change in altitude and temperature makes it the perfect climate for wildlife. Cloudforest known for its great variety of birds, plants, orchids, and a diversity of fruits. Accompanied by a certificated local tour guide and driver, an open-minded ambient, good music, safety and comfortability of his car. Feel free to ask! LGBTIQ 420 friendly.
Free cancellation VIATOR
15-Day Expedition to the Matses Indigenous Territory
15-Day Expedition to the Matses Indigenous Territory
★★★★★ 5.0 (28 reviews) ⏱️ 360.0h
Off-the-beaten track expedition to the territory of the Matses tribe. This is a hard jungle program to one of the most remote areas of the Amazon rainforest, located near the Peru-Brazil borderline. Little exploration has been done and is inaccessible for most tourists to this non-touristic indigenous people. The trip is open to highly motivated, interested people who have the attributes of adaptability, versatility and are in good condition both physically and mentally.
VIATOR
Half-Day Guided Sightseeing Tour of Old Town Quito
Half-Day Guided Sightseeing Tour of Old Town Quito
★★★★★ 5.0 (28 reviews) ⏱️ 4.0h
We will take you to places that are not normally visited and that keep many secrets, you will know the interior of the important buildings and you will feel the peace of the convents. You can also buy products made by hand by the nuns and in this way you will support them in their mission. Quito is much more than walls and buildings and on this tour we will discover it.
Free cancellation VIATOR
MINDO CLOUD FOREST: Nature & Adventure - Flexible Private Day Tour
MINDO CLOUD FOREST: Nature & Adventure - Flexible Private Day Tour
★★★★★ 5.0 (27 reviews) ⏱️ 8.0h
Surrounded by forested mountains and just two hours away from Quito, Mindo offers a variety of activities for all interests and tastes. You will start the day with a hike in the  Mindo Nambillo Reserve. This is a transitional sub-tropical rainforest where two of the most biologically diverse ecoregions in the world meet: the Chocó lowlands and the Western Tropical Andes. Three rivers (Mindo, Saloya and Cinto) and hundreds of streams irrigate the landscape. The Nambillo Waterfall Sanctuary is one of the main attractions and invite you to test the refreshing waters of the river. Time permitting, once you are done exploring the forest interior, you can choose from several additional activities: Canopy Zip Line Park, Tubbing, Butterfly Farm or the Artisanal Chocolate Factory. These options are available under request, you can pay for the cost of the activity of your choice directly the day of the tour. Talk to you guide about your interest and he will customize the tour accordingly.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Photoshoot Flyingdress Ecuador
Photoshoot Flyingdress Ecuador
★★★★★ 5.0 (27 reviews) ⏱️ 1.0h
Why Our Flying Dress Experience in Quito is Truly Unique You don’t need to travel all the way to Greece or Turkey to live the magic of a Flying Dress photoshoot — Ecuador offers breathtaking scenery and dreamlike locations that make your session just as stunning (if not more!). From colonial architecture to panoramic city views, the Historic Center of Quito provides the perfect backdrop for unforgettable photos. With its vibrant culture and hidden gems, Ecuador turns your photoshoot into a once-in-a-lifetime experience. What makes it even better? It’s accessible, personalized, and crafted just for you — no long flights required.
Free cancellation VIATOR
One to One Spanish Classes in Quito - 5 Days (20 hours per week)
One to One Spanish Classes in Quito - 5 Days (20 hours per week)
★★★★★ 5.0 (26 reviews) ⏱️ 120.0h
Learn Spanish while in South America, the Instituto Superior de Español Private Course is ideal if you want to improve significantly in speaking Spanish with a great quality to speak and write. Our teachers are University Degree professionals with experience to guide you to improve your language skills fast and efficiently, afterwards due to ISE's privileged location you can practice in real life settings.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Private Full Day Six Senses Tour in Quito
Private Full Day Six Senses Tour in Quito
★★★★★ 5.0 (26 reviews) ⏱️ 6.0h
The Six Senses is a unique and innovative tour created by Latin Trails, that is fixed with psycho-sensory experiences in which every perceptive human senses are involved, giving visitors a complete life experience on ancient places and typical dishes in the marvelous city of Quito. Sensorial: Hands on to feel the textures of Quito as you learn and experience adventure and culture. Listen: The sounds of the city, the Andes and history. Taste: Enjoy the culinary delights on tasting journeys that bring you to the world’s best chocolate, legendary deserts, and fine coffee Colonial: Get a birdseye view of the city and come in close on to colonial art crafted by both indigenous hands with European influence Aromas: Exotic perfumes for Ecuador’s 4 world’s orchids, exotic fruit, algae and more blend to elevate your senses Love: The sixth sense is made up of love and the heart Ecuadorians put into everything they do.
Free cancellation VIATOR
7-Day The Best of Ecuador
7-Day The Best of Ecuador
★★★★★ 5.0 (26 reviews) ⏱️ 168.0h
Discover the secrets of the Ecuadorian Andes and cloud forest regions with a full-immersion in the cultural and natural wonders that make Ecuador one of the countries with the biggest biodiversity in the world. Enjoy waterfalls, butterflies, bird watching and chocolate making in the tropical paradise of Mindo, then take a spectacular drive through the cloud forest to reach the coffee valley of Intag, where you will visit a coffee plantation. Back to the highlands, visit Cuicocha crater-lake, the world-famous indigenous market of Otavalo and then live an unique experience sharing an organic lunch prepared side by side with local people in the very heart of the Andes. "Unique Experiences:" Organic cooking lesson with traditional fresh ingredients, side by side with local people in the heart of the Andes Take a scenic drive in the valley of Intag and taste the organic fair-trade coffee produced in the area
VIATOR
Private Tour in Belen Market, Floating City and Amazon River
Private Tour in Belen Market, Floating City and Amazon River
★★★★★ 5.0 (25 reviews) ⏱️ 4.0h
You will experience local flavor and views of the Itaya River at the Malecón Tarapacá and Belen Marketplace, the most important market from Iquitos where local food and traditional medicine are sold. Then travel to our unique Floating City where you will see an entire city built on the water and witness how the local residents live and work. Afterward you will see the Amazon River itself where the Rio Itaya meets the Amazon.
Free cancellation VIATOR

When to Visit Quito

Cruise season patterns based on scheduled ship visits and passenger volumes

Winter Season
Dec – Feb
13,484 estimated passengers across 177 ship visits. Peak cruise season — book early.
Spring Season
Mar – May
8,236 estimated passengers across 115 ship visits. Peak cruise season — book early.
Summer Season
Jun – Aug
8,473 estimated passengers across 118 ship visits. Peak cruise season — book early.
Autumn Season
Sep – Nov
12,752 estimated passengers across 163 ship visits. Peak cruise season — book early.

Cruise Lines Visiting Quito

2 cruise lines. View full breakdown →

HX Expeditions Cruises (632) Lindblad Expeditions Cruises (534)

Ships Arriving Soon

Next scheduled visits to Quito

Tue 15 Sep
MV Santa Cruz II Galapagos
HX Expeditions Cruises
Wed 16 Sep
MV Santa Cruz II Galapagos
HX Expeditions Cruises
Thu 17 Sep
MV Santa Cruz II Galapagos
HX Expeditions Cruises
Fri 18 Sep
National Geographic Delfina
Lindblad Expeditions Cruises
Sat 19 Sep
National Geographic Gemini
Lindblad Expeditions Cruises
Sat 19 Sep
MV Santa Cruz II Galapagos
HX Expeditions Cruises
Sat 19 Sep
National Geographic Delfina
Lindblad Expeditions Cruises
Sun 20 Sep
MV Santa Cruz II Galapagos
HX Expeditions Cruises
Mon 21 Sep
MV Santa Cruz II Galapagos
HX Expeditions Cruises
Wed 23 Sep
MV Santa Cruz II Galapagos
HX Expeditions Cruises

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