Quito City Guide

Local dishes include locro de papa, fritada, empanadas de viento, and llapingachos. International options exist, especially around La Mariscal. Vegetarian options are growing. Late-night food is limited but available on weekends.

Areas like La Mariscal and La Floresta offer bars, clubs, salsa spots, and craft beer pubs catering to various tastes.

Coffee culture is growing with traditional and specialty cafes serving local beans.

10% service charge often included in restaurants. Extra 5-10% appreciated for good service. Tipping not expected for taxis but rounding up is common.

SIM cards are sold at the airport, official stores (Claro, Movistar, CNT), and convenience shops. A passport is required for registration. Claro and Movistar offer good coverage and eSIM options.

Cleanliness varies; central and wealthier neighborhoods are cleaner than some outskirts. Waste service is regular.

Some pharmacies, clinics, and convenience stores open late, but true 24/7 options are limited outside key areas.

Supermaxi and Megamaxi supermarkets offer many products, including some international items. Mercados like Mercado Central sell fresh local produce. Supermarkets open 9 AM-9 PM, markets open earlier and close afternoon.

Credit cards are accepted at major places, but cash is needed for markets, taxis, and small shops.

ATMs are common at banks, malls, and supermarkets. Expect withdrawal fees around $2-$5 plus your bank's fees.

International schools include Alliance Academy International, Colegio Americano de Quito, and Cotopaxi Academy. They teach mainly in English and follow Northern Hemisphere academic calendar.

Community is small but growing, with occasional meetups and many cafes that support remote work.

Several large parks with shaded paths and good running terrain like Parque La Carolina and Parque Itchimbía.

Popular routes include Parque La Carolina and Parque Metropolitano. Safe in busy areas during the day.

Several gym chains and smaller gyms are available for training.

Tennis courts available at private clubs and public complexes with coaching options.

Padel is growing with dedicated courts at sports centers.

Several yoga studios offer classes and meditation, some with English-speaking instructors.

Various styles like BJJ, Muay Thai, Boxing, Taekwondo, and Karate are available, some with drop-in classes.

No skiing near Quito.

Limited water sports; some lakes nearby offer kayaking or paddleboarding.

No surfing in Quito; coastal beaches several hours away.

No diving near Quito; best diving is at the Galapagos Islands or the coast.

Private hospitals like Hospital Metropolitano and Hospital Vozandes provide good care with some English-speaking staff. Public hospitals have longer waits. Pharmacies are everywhere and offer OTC meds and advice.

Tap water is generally not safe for travelers. Bottled or filtered water is recommended.

Parks with playgrounds like Parque La Carolina and Parque Metropolitano are common. Family cafes and baby supplies are easy to find. Attractions include TeleferiQo and Mitad del Mundo.

Generally accepting and progressive, especially in urban areas, with safe spaces and annual pride events.

Pet policies vary but many parks allow dogs on leashes. Veterinary care is good and pet import requires health certificates.