Quito

Quito, Ecuador's capital, sits high up in the Andes at 2,850 meters above sea level, making it the second-highest official capital city in the world. The city is literally on the equator - its name comes from the ancient Quitu tribe that once lived in the area.

The historic center of Quito is one of the largest and best-preserved in the Americas, earning it UNESCO World Heritage status back in 1978. Walking through the old town feels like stepping back in time with its stunning colonial architecture, beautiful plazas, and countless churches including the impressive La Compañía with its gold-leaf interior.

Beyond the historic center, Quito offers modern areas like La Mariscal with restaurants, bars and shops. The TelefériQo cable car takes visitors up Pichincha Volcano for amazing views of the city and surrounding mountains.

Quito's food scene showcases Ecuadorian cuisine with local specialties like locro de papa (potato soup with cheese and avocado) and empanadas de viento (cheese-filled pastries). The city sits in a valley surrounded by volcanoes, creating a stunning backdrop wherever you look.

Despite being on the equator, Quito's high elevation gives it a spring-like climate year-round, though weather can change quickly, so layers are always a good idea when exploring this fascinating Andean capital.