Quito (pop. 1.4 million) has long served as a starting point to Amazonian adventures. In fact, it was here that Gonzalo Pizarro began his quest in search of El Dorado and cinnamon, only to have Francisco de Orellana steal all the glory by becoming the first European to travel the entirety of the Amazon. The city itself is close the equator and is located at an altitude of 2,820 m in a central valley.

Quito is divided up into two cities: old and new. The airport itself is located in the new city, and while the new city doesn’t provide the romance of the old, it is a much safer place to spend the night.

The most notable of the two is the old city with its charming colonial architecture and historical importance. When one considers that the old city appears much as it did in the days of Orellana, it is easy to understand why UNESCO Declared it as a World Heritage Site by in 1978. Calle de Morales holds the distinction of being one of Quitos oldest streets, and is home to some fine examples of 17th century buildings. Not far off lies the Plaza de Independencia, known as the location of some of the finest examples of colonial architecture in Quito. The Palacio Municipal (city hall), Palacio Arzobispal (Archbishop’s palace), Palacio de Gobierno (Presidential Palace), and the cathedral. The cathedral is perhaps the most accomplished of these with its Moorish roof, green cupolas, and imposing façade. Inca stones have been incorporated into its structure, and inside one can appreciate various 17th century paintings.

In addition to all of its treasures, the Plaza also offers an excellent view of the Virgen de Quito. Located on Panecillo hill, the virgen is perhaps Quito’s most famous landmark. With her crown of stars and dragon under foot, the statue represents the virgin of the Americas. The hill itself provides the perfect panorama of the city of Quito, best from the statue itself. It is advisable to visit by taxi or tour and not by foot, as the hill tends to be unsafe.