The best time to visit Quito: Easter Week

Quito is a unique city near the middle of the world, known as “Light of America” due to its location in the Andes and the mixture of Colonial and modern architecture. Its people, gastronomy, music, traditions and architecture makes it the world’s first Cultural Heritage of Humanity site of the world.

One of the most famous festivities and the best time to visit Quito is during Easter week. Catholicism is very important for the locals and there are many events in Colonial City. Amongst them is a music festival of sacred, Baroque, music played in the colonial churches.

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Music Festival
Picture: Quito Turismo

The Procession of Jesus Christ on Easter Friday is truly unique and an excellent opportunity for photography. Hence why photographers come from all over the world to capture this event. The Procession starts in San Francisco square and continues along the main roads of the historical town. The customs and the culture is intense. You won’t want to miss the “cucuruchos” with their covered faces and the heavy crosses that they carry to pay for their sins.

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Easter week traditions
Picture: Quito Turismo

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Cucuruchos walking around the Historic Center Streets.
Picture: Quito Turismo

While visiting Quito during Easter week, you can also take advantage of the fantastic destinations and activities nearby: Go up the cable car to 4000 m (13200 feet) and then hike up Ruco Pichincha Volcano for spectacular views of the city and the Andes. Visit the cloud forest either East or West of Quito, located only one hour away, where you will be immersed in lush green vegetation with a high diversity of plant species and land birds. Or visit the famous indigenous and colorful markets of Otavalo or Saquisili, each North and South of Quito respectively. If you chose to go North you can jump from the southern to the northern hemisphere in the middle of the world monument and museum.

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Cloud Forest Hummingbird.
Picture: Jonathan Green

Furthermore, during your Easter trip in Quito you could take advantage of the delicious Ecuadorian soup of the season, typical Fanesca. This soup is made once a year, only for Easter, thus is an anticipated and favorite meal for all Ecuadorians. Can you image a single plate made with squash, fava beans, lupine, fresh corn, peas, beans, onions, garlic, achiote, peanuts, milk, cream, cheese and salted Grouper, that replaces the salted Bacalao from Spain? The mixture does not sound attractive, but trust us, it is one of the most delicious soups of the Andes.

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Fanesca Soup
Picture: Quito Turismo

You can also make the best of your experience by staying at a traditional house in one of the most beautiful squares of Colonial Quito, the San Marcos square.

Lodging at San Marcos Square

Senderos Naturales can organize an unforgettable week for your family and friends around Quito and maybe even add a cruise in the Galapagos Islands for the best life experience!

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