Updated September 2026 by our local guides in Quito: we grouped the 20 ideas by region with the tour or guide that fits each one, and corrected outdated details on the TeleferiQo, Mitad del Mundo, Cotopaxi, the Devil’s Nose train and Galápagos fees.

For being such a small country, Ecuador provides every type of experience that you could possibly imagine. Ranging from exhilarating hikes in the Andes, to beautiful beaches for lounging and one of a kind Amazon experiences. With the perfect mix of culture, history, cuisine and four worlds packed into one country. Whether you are traveling solo or with friends Ecuador’s rich diversity will fulfill all your needs.

20 things to do in Ecuador:

Hit the streets of Old Town Quito & New Town

Come and join us on our Free Walking Tour to get a full Historic Center experience, come and learn about the colonial plazas, traditional food markets, the historic churches of Quito that are lined with gold. Take in the panoramic views from the towers of the Basilica.

The north part of the city is also a bustling metropolis waiting to be explored, explore the gardens in beautiful Parque La Carolina or duck into some quaint cafes for a recharge.

Ride up Pichincha Volcano on the TeleferiQo

Take the Gondola up to 4,100 meters above sea level and enjoy the views of Quito and if you are lucky the neighboring volcanoes. If you are feeling up to it there is an additional hike from the Teleferico to the summit of Rucu Pichincha, it is about a 4-5 hour hike to the summit where the views are even more spectacular. During the winter season it is best to go in the morning before the clouds roll in.

Check hours & pricing.

Mitad del Mundo

When in Ecuador, what better to do than  visit Latitude Zero. Here in Quito we have 2 locations to mark the equator. The Museo Inti ñan is the GPS calculated line where you can defy gravity and bust some myths. At the museum you will have the opportunity to learn about the history of Quito and how they knew that we were on the equator, also see some of the solar clocks used by the indigenous communities. Just 200 meters around the bend is the historic monument called Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, at this location you can get a picture with the widely recognized monument and explore the shops of local goodies (more information about the Mitad del Mundo).

Mitad del Mundo is about 45 minutes north of Quito by taxi, ride-hailing app or public bus.

Take in the beautiful sights and colors of Otavalo

Otavalo is highly recognized for its Plaza de Ponchos which is the largest outdoor artisanal market in Ecuador. For around  85 years of history the Saturday market in Otavalo is a must see and do while in Ecuador. All of the various communities from around the area come to the market to display and sell their handicrafts, you can find anything and everything here: artwork, clothes, ceramics and even local food.

The market is not the only wonder that Otavalo and its province have to offer, if you are able to stay in the area and explore you won’t be disappointed. There are scenic hikes around Cuicocha lagoon and the thundering Peguche waterfalls are all great areas to explore around Otavalo.

Check out our Otavalo Market Tour.

Explore the beauty and nature of the Cloudforest Mindo

Mindo is a beautiful, small village nestled in the north part of the Andes in Ecuador with a subtropical forest climate which is home to a great diversity of flora and fauna. If you are a avid bird-watcher then Mindo is the place for you, with over 400 different exotic bird species you will not be disappointed. But you will not only find birds in Mindo, there is also an abundance of butterflies and orchids to apease the nature lovers. For the more adventurous folks there are plenty of options; zip-line though the canopy of the cloud forest, ride the “tarabita” across to the waterfalls and hike, or tube down the river to cool off, taste the divine Ecuadorian chocolate at the factories.

Whether you want nature or adventure Mindo is a great place to escape for a couple of days (more information about Mindo).

If you are on a limited time schedule and want to explore Mindo in one day see our Mindo Cloudforest Tour.

Get lost in the Amazon in the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve

Have you ever imagined yourself swimming in the lake in the middle of the jungle as the sun sets around you? If you answered yes then Cuyabeno is right up your alley. The Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, is  an oasis of peace and adventure in the Ecuadorian Amazon, it is truly one of the country’s best treasures.

Among the various experiences travelers love about this area is the spontaneous sighting of the reserve’s flora and fauna – birds, monkeys, caimans, frogs, bullet ants, turtles, pink river dolphins, electric eel, boas, and if you’re lucky, an anaconda. The guides in Cuyabeno are all native and very knowledgeable about the species you will encounter, so you will learn about the region’s botany and the intriguing properties of your surroundings.

You can plan a 3, 4 or 5 day experience to the Cuyabeno with us: Cuyabeno Jungle Tour.

Stand above the clouds at the top of Cotopaxi

One of the top things to do when beeing in Ecuador: Have you ever imagined yourself walking above the clouds? If so then you are in luck!

Cotopaxi volcano is Ecuador’s second highest peek, if you are an avid mountain climber and want to challenge yourself this is the one for you. The summit sits at 5, 897 meters above sea level and if you do reach the peak you will be rewarded with the most spectacular views imaginable. The ascent to the summit takes about 2-3 hours, and for those who don’t want to reach the summit but just explore the beauty of the National Park you can do a smaller hike up to the refuge at 4,600 meters.

A popular way to visit Cotopaxi is on a Hike and Bike tour for one full day.

Check out our Cotopaxi Bike and Hike Tour.

Loop around the Quilotoa Crater Lake

When it comes to breathtaking, must see landmarks in Ecuador; the Quilotoa Crater lake is one of them. You have many options when it comes to Quilotoa which sits at 3, 814 meters, you can hike down to the turquoise, sulphuric water. There is a path laid out to hike from the rim down and you can even kayak in the lake, to get back up you can challenge yourself to a straight uphill hike or rent a mule to do the work for you. If you are more avid hiker you can tackle the 5-6 hour hike around the rim of the crater lake, or do the infamous Quilotoa Loop which is about a 2-3 day hike around Quilotoa to all the small towns that neighbor the national park. No matter how you do it, make sure you check Quilotoa off your bucket list.

If you only have 1 day to visit, check out our Quilotoa Tour.

Baños de Agua Santa, adventure or party?

One of hte highlights of Ecuador: If you are the kind of person that loves adventure and extreme sports, then Baños is the perfect place for you. This small(ish) city is jam packed with activities, from the thundering waterfalls that surround Baños to the gravity defying swings if you want to take the leap of faith. Some of the most popular attractions in Baños are the Casa del Arbol, where you can swing into the most amazing views of Tungurahua Volcano. And out of all the waterfalls in Baños, el Pailon del Diablo (Devil’s Cauldron) is definitely the most grand with its roaring water surrounded by lush vegetation, make sure you have a poncho or raincoat as you will get soaked! Or if you want to take a more relaxing approach you can visit one of many spas and thermals in Baños.  If after all of that you are not tired, Baños has an excellent night life where you can dance till dawn.

White water rafting in Tena and its surrounding areas

If you are looking for a shorter Jungle experience then Tena is perfect, located in the center of the amazon region. If you are a water sport junkie then look no further than the great rapids of Tena, one of the best destinations for white water rafting in all of Ecuador. You will have a variety or rivers and categories to choose from.

While in Tena you can also visit the Amazon, Puerto Misahualli is just off the Napo River and you can get a feel for the jungle. With the capuchin monkeys living freely around you and also visit a Kichwa community native to that area. Also in that region you will find the Caverns of Jumandy which are not extremely well known but definitely worth the visit. Inside the caves you can see the underground water currents and the spectacular stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over the years.

Take a ride into the Devil’s Nose

One of the most unique wonders of Alausi is the Devils Nose Train, this zigzag path into the Chanchan river gorge climbs 500 meters in only 12 kilometers. Don’t let the Devils Nose scare you, it is one of the most beautiful train rides in Ecuador. Even though Alausi is a small town nestled in the Province of Chimborazo, it has plenty to offer. From the delicious, traditional food in the market to the wondrous sights of the Lagunas de Ozogoche. You can also trek up to the statue of San Pedro to enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of the town.

Our hostel is located right in front of the Alausi train station, so hop on over the tracks and purchase your ticket: Community Hostel Alausi.

Visit the Ruins of Ingapirca

The largest known Inca ruins in Ecuador are Ingapirca or translated to english would be “Inca Wall”, located in the town close to Cañar. The most significant building of the ruins is the Templo del Sol its elliptically shaped building or whats left of it was constructed in the Inca way without mortar and hand chiseled to fit together perfectly. To see this spectacular sight for yourself you can take a tour from Cuenca for the day or if you want to stay near by there is lodging in the surrounding towns of El Tambo or Cañar. Or if you are a hiker/nature lover you can also tackle the 3 day Inca Trail hike that can start from Alausi and takes you though many sights until you arrive to the ruins.

Cuenca, our own little piece of Europe

Cuenca is the capital city of the Azuay province, and its largely recognized for its UNESCO world heritage sight city center. It resembles Spain due to its 16th and 17th century colonial architecture which is what makes Cuenca so popular. They are also well known for their textile industry, such as hats and shoes. It is also known as the city of 4 rivers, which surround the city and allow for walks along the riverfront such as the Tomebamba river which goes along the colonial center of Cuenca. Many people also choose Cuenca as their go to place to retire, so you know it must be beautiful and relaxing.

El Cajas National Park

Take a hike through the highlands of Ecuador,  in this park about 30 km west of Cuenca. With around 270 lakes and lagoons inside the park, it is home to to many endemic species of animals some of which are highly endangered. Even if you are not an avid hiker, El Cajas still has plenty to offer. You can go climbing, fishing, camping and bird watching. So if you are heading south in Ecuador make sure you take the time to stop in this national park, even if for only a day it’s a nature experience you can’t miss.

Eat your heart out in Guayaquil

Guayaquil is Ecuadors largest city and the country’s main port, with nice hot weather year round to keep you sweating! While it does have lots to offer in term of landmarks, Guayaquil definitely stands out for its FOOD, honestly some of the best food in Ecuador. Basing heavily on seafood (which is obvious since they are on the coast), they also  have the best “menestra” around; which is rice, grilled meat and lentils or beans.

For all the foodies coming to Ecuador you have to make the time and room in your stomach to go and try all the varieties of cuisine in Guayaquil. If you want to walk off all that food you can stroll through Las Peñas and brave the 444 stairs up Cerro Santa Ana to the majestic white and blue lighthouse. You can also enjoy a walk along the Malecon which goes along the River Guayas and go up for amazing panoramic sights in the ferris wheel of La Perla.

Party like a beach bum in Montañita

Just 3 hours north of Guayaquil on the Ecuadorian coast line in most likely one of the funnest places to stay. Montañita is a true beach party town, it is just a small-town but jam-packed with thrills.

A great spot for surfing with consistent, strong waves always available and the most ideal summer weather year round. After all the water sports you can hang out in one of many beach bars and enjoy an ice cold beer or cocktail! It is very easy to get trapped for much longer than you planned in Montañita, it truly is a one of a kind place that won’t let you leave its sandy shores.

Explore the wonders of Playa de los Frailes

This white sand, crystal blue beach is truly one of Ecuadors most beautiful spots. Inside the National Park of Machalilla it is a great place to stop for the day if you are traveling the coast line. Since it is a national park there is no camping or accommodation at Los Frailes. So you are only able to visit for the day, but it is recommended to bring everything you will need with you. You can also go snorkeling along the half-moon shaped shoreline. Or if you are looking to scuba dive in Los Frailes you can pick up a tour from Puerto Lopez, since this beach inside the national park it is only accessible via private car or taxi.

Truly a place for all ages to come and enjoy, a sight you can’t miss!

Get a sneak-peek of Galapagos in Isla de la Plata

Sometimes known as the poor man’s Galapagos, Isla de la Plata is a part of the National Park of Machalilla and is just off the coast of Manabi.  Here on the island you can get a small taste of what the Galapagos islands have to offer, you can see 3 different species of the booby bird and some sea lions as well. You can pick up a tour to the island from Puerto Lopez to go out for the day, see the animals and do some hikes. So for those of you that can’t make it over to Galapagos this time around, try and make the trip out to Isla de la Plata!

Discover the uniqueness of Galapagos Islands

Prepare to be enchanted by the Galapagos Islands, a cluster of volcanic islands just off the coast of Ecuador; it truly is a once in a lifetime experience. Here you can lay on the beach next to the sea lions and iguanas who most likely will not get up and move to give you a spot on the sand. You will also get a chance to photograph many of the islands endemic species such as the giant tortoises, blood red crabs, the boobies, the Galapagos penguin and so many more.

You can dive in many places around the islands and get a glimpse into life under the sea, or if you want a more relaxed approach under the water you can easily get some snorkel gear and take the plunge. Another great way to see the islands is via bike, especially the volcanic coastline of Isabela Island.

Come and see for yourself why the Galapagos are Ecuador’s most precious treasure! See our Galapagos land based tours.

Always go local!

Finally this is just some of our personal advice for wherever in Ecuador you end up. Try, taste, hear and see the local ways. Sometimes the best foods are hidden away in the local markets in every city or town. The best way to really experience a country is by giving the food and culture a shot.

Even if it’s a strange animal part you never thought about eating, you might be surprised at just how good it is. Indulge in all the vibrantly colored fresh fruit that is offered. Skip the fancy restaurant for one night and go explore the streets cause it’s usually those hole in the wall food places that will have the best tasting food!

How do you fit these things to do into one Ecuador trip?

Ecuador is compact, but the roads through the Andes are slow, so pick regions rather than trying to do all 20 things. With a week, most travelers combine Quito with Cotopaxi, Quilotoa and Otavalo or Mindo. With 10 to 14 days you can add either the Amazon or the Galápagos, plus Baños or Cuenca. Our new Ecuador itinerary guide lays out day-by-day routes for 7, 10 and 14 days.

Related guides

• Ecuador itinerary: 7, 10 and 14 days
• Things to do in Quito
• How much does a trip to Ecuador cost in 2026?
• Cuyabeno vs Yasuní: which Amazon reserve?
• Is Ecuador safe to travel in 2026?

Plan it with us

Want help choosing which of these 20 things fit your dates and budget? Visit us at Pedro Fermín Cevallos N6-78 y Olmedo in Quito, message us on WhatsApp at +593 97 953 3832, or email info@communitytravel.ec and our local guides will put together a plan with you.

Frequently asked questions

Quick reference: Ecuador travel facts and figures 2026 · Ecuador travel glossary · About Community Adventures Ecuador

Het bericht 20 Things to Do in Ecuador, From Quito to Galápagos (2026 Guide) verscheen eerst op Community Adventures Ecuador.

Updated September 2026 by our local guides in Quito: we added the official 2025 entry fees and opening days, bus options from Cuenca, the new site museum, and corrected how the ruins were rediscovered.

Ingapirca at a glance (2026)

Author: APRILHOLLOWAY

Located at an altitude of over 3,000 meters in the picturesque Andes Mountains of Ecuador sits Ingapirca, the largest and best preserved archaeological site in Ecuador. Affectionately known as “The Machu Picchu of Ecuador”, it is also the most important Inca site in the country.  What makes this site particularly unique is that it stands as a lasting record of the joining of two cultures – the original Cañari people, a matriarchal society that worshipped the moon, and their Inca conquerors, a patriarchal society that worshipped the sun. Remarkably, the two peoples lived harmoniously, celebrating their commonalities and respecting their differences.

The Ancient Origins of Ingapirca

The site of Ingapirca (meaning ‘Inca Wall’ in Kichwa) had long been settled by the Cañari indigenous people, who named it Hatun Cañar. Excavations at the site unearthed a 1,200-year-old burial of an elite female with ten women surrounding her, who had drunk poison to be with their female leader in death.  They built a circular moon temple, as well as a rock calendar that recorded the lunar cycle.

Towards the end of the 15^th century, the Inca arrived led by Túpac Yupanqui. The intention was to quickly subjugate the Cañari people and amalgamate their territory. However, the Cañari fiercely defended their territory and were not so easily defeated. So the Inca proposed a political alliance. The Inca nobles married the Cañari princesses and a pact was negotiated in which it was agreed they would live together – the Inca would have a strategic base in the area, while the Cañari would have the protection of the Inca warriors.

The city was renamed and a new hybrid community was formed. Although the Inca were more numerous, they did not demand that the Cañari give up their autonomy. The Cañari continued to manage their own affairs and retained their individual customs, but adopted the language of the Inca. Together they celebrated common festivities, drinking large quantities of fermented beverages. Yet, separately they continued with their individual beliefs – the Cañari worshipping the moon and the Inca worshipping the sun.

The new city served as an important religious, political, military and administrative center for both the Inca and the Cañari.

Features of the New City

Ingapirca today displays an interesting combination of both Inca and Cañari architecture. The rough stone walls with mortar and rounded half-moon temple reflect the Cañari civilization, while the rectangular buildings and highly-precise walls built without mortar reflect the Inca culture.

The site is also composed of temples, chambers for priests, a ceremonial plaza, cobblestone streets, a solar observatory, a lunar calendar, storage rooms, ritual baths, dwellings, and a sophisticated advanced aqueduct system to distribute water to the entire compound.

By far the most impressive structure at Ingapirca is the Temple of the Sun, also known as El Castillo (The Castle), an elliptical-shaped building that aligns perfectly with the summer solstice. The stones were carefully chiseled and polished and positioned to fit together perfectly without mortar.

The End of Ingapirca

The growth of Ingapirca was short-lived because the Spanish arrived before it was even completed. The city was ransacked and its inhabitants were slaughtered. The conquistadors knocked down most of the buildings and took the stone to build churches. The site lay abandoned for centuries and became covered with vegetation.

Ingapirca had long been forgotten until a farmer discovered the ruins in his field. The Ecuadorian government began an extensive restoration project in the 1970s, and many of the original stones that had been stolen were returned to the site. The site is now open to the public and is run by the local Cañari people, who give guided tours for free, sharing the story of their past to all who come to visit.

By April Holloway

All images copyright Ancient Origins.

References

Atlas Obscura (2014) – Ingapirca. Available from: http://www.atlasobscura.com/places/ingapirca

Enciclopedia del Ecuador – Cañari Confederation. Available from: http://www.enciclopediadelecuador.com/temasOpt.php?Ind=354

Hyslop, John (19 February 2014). Inka Settlement Planning. Austin, Texas: University of Texas Press.

Lauderbaugh, George (22 February 2012). The History of Ecuador. Westport, Connecticut: Greenwood Publishing Group.

With special thanks to the Cañari people, who shared their knowledge with us.

How do you visit Ingapirca from Cuenca or Quito?

Cuenca is the natural base. Take the 9:00 Transportes Cañar bus from the Terminal Terrestre, spend two hours at the ruins and the museum, walk the short trail to the Cara del Inca rock face, and catch the afternoon bus back. If the direct bus is full or not running, go to Cañar or El Tambo and switch to a local bus. Tours from Cuenca are also sold if you prefer not to deal with buses.

From Quito, Cuenca is about 9 to 10 hours by bus or a short domestic flight. Our favorite way is to break the trip in Alausí: ride the Devil’s Nose train, sleep at Community Hostel Alausí, and continue south the next morning with a stop at Ingapirca on the way to Cuenca.

Starting in Quito? Our free walking tour covers the colonial Old Town, and Museo Casa del Alabado nearby has pre-Columbian pieces that give great context before you see Ingapirca. See the Free Walking Tour or browse all our tours.

Related guides

• Devil’s Nose train in Alausí: the complete 2026 guide
• Ecuador itinerary for 7, 10 or 14 days
• Giant skeletons in Ecuador: what was claimed and what is documented
• Tayos Cave: what is documented and how to visit
• Altitude sickness in Ecuador: how to prevent soroche

Plan it with us

Want help fitting this into your Ecuador route? Drop by our office at Pedro Fermín Cevallos N6-78 y Olmedo in Quito, message us on WhatsApp at +593 97 953 3832, or email info@communitytravel.ec. Our local guides answer the same day.

Frequently asked questions

Het bericht Ingapirca Ruins: Cañari and Inca History and How to Visit (2026) verscheen eerst op Community Adventures Ecuador.

Updated September 2026 by our local guides in Quito: we added current entry fee, hours and directions, and updated where the excavated artifacts are displayed today.

Author: ALICIA MCDERMOTT

The ruins of the Pucará de Rumicucho are well-preserved walls of an Pre-hispanic, Incan fortress. They are located a one hour drive north of Quito, Ecuador. The fortress was built in the end of the 15th century by Tupac Yupanqui, the tenth Sapa Inca (God Emperor). However, archaeologists have shown that the site predates the Inca period and served as more than just a military stronghold. The key location of the site corresponds well with astronomical activities as well. Today the ruins are well-maintained and frequent tourist visits, as well as indigenous ceremonies, take place there.

Architectural Features of The Stone Fortress

The name Pucará de Rumicucho, is Kichwa meaning fortress (Pucara) of stone (Rumi) corner (cucho), often translated as The Stone Fortress. This is an obviously descriptive name for at least one of the previous uses of the site. It has also been called Lulumbamba – “fertile plain.” It is believed that it was constructed between 1480 and 1500, by the Inca ruler Tupac Yupanqui.

The structure on the site consists of five terraces and measures at 400 meters (1312 feet) long, 100 meters (328 feet) wide and 20 meters (65.5 feet) high. The cut-stone walls are made up of pucarui (reddish color) and pugshi (volcanic ash) as well as chocoto and pumice stone. The dating of the fortress construction of between 1480-1500 has been decided upon by this particular stone and mortar combination.

• The Inca-Caranqui Water Temple of Ecuador: A display of wealth and skillful hydraulic engineering
• Decapitation discovery reveals gruesome practices of the ancient Incas
• Have explorers in Ecuador found ‘Lost City of Giants’?

The stone fotress is situated atop a hill, providing a perfect view not only of invading forces, but also of the mountains surrounding it on three sides and the valley to the South.

Artifacts Discovered at the Site of Rumicucho

Archaeologists have been excavating the Pucará de Rumicucho since 1976 when Ecuadorian archaeologist, Eduardo Almeida, started his study of the site financed by the Ecuadorian Central Bank Museum. It  was continually excavated from that time until 1990.

Rumicucho was rich in cultural material and some of the artifacts encountered at the site include: stone tools, metal, ceramic pottery (mostly creted by local Pre-Inca cultures), and shell and camelid bone objects such as needles, hairpins, awls and zoomorphic figurines. Today these artifacts are mostly exhibted in the Banco Central Museum in Quito, although an on-site museum has recently opened with the goal to return materials “home” and to increase the cultural and social value of the site.

The Multi-Use Site of Pucará de Rumicucho

The Pucará de Rumicucho is part of a chain of Incan fortresses showing their expansion and military rule over captured lands. The Incan military infrastructure often included paths, bridges, tambos (inns or resting places) and pucaráes (fortresses). The Pucará de Rumicucho was constructed as a military control center in the Quito territory, helping to advance the conquest over the Cayambe and Caranqui villages.

Although the Rumicucho fortress was arguably constructed during the Inca period, there is a strong belief by archaeologists that the site was used before the Incan invasion of Ecuador. Archaeological evidence suggests that it may have also been used by the Pre-Incan Caranquis, Quitus, Panzaleos and Cuasmal. Another explanation for Pre-Inca artifacts is that the Incas living at the site shared the space with the local communities.

Archaeologists have divided the site of Rumicucho into three sections for different uses based on their discoveries. There is the ceremonial section on the third terrace, a ritual and food consumption space on the first and second terraces, and it is believed that the rest of the space was used for workshops and housing.

• Secrets of Vilcabamba, Playground of the Inca and Valley of Longevity
• Andean Village comes alive with Pawkar Raymi, Equinox Celebration to honor Mother Earth
• Father Crespi and the missing golden artifacts

The Secrets of the Oval Rooms and Rumi Jatun

Two oval rooms and the Rumi Jatun (giant rock), which is aligned perfectly with two mountains have lead many to believe that the site of Rumicucho also had an important astronomical role. Some have suggested that the rock represents the sun during the day and at night it can be filled with water as a mirror of the stars. The two rooms have been associated with the solstices. As is known, the Inca civilization had an advanced knowledge regarding astronomy and often built their structures with it in mind.

The two rooms and the giant rock are located in the northern part of the ruins, and despite rigorous studies, it has yet to be discovered what secrets they hold. It has only been agreed upon that they were not casually created.

The Secrets of the Oval Rooms and Rumi Jatun

Two oval rooms and the Rumi Jatun (giant rock), which is aligned perfectly with two mountains have lead many to believe that the site of Rumicucho also had an important astronomical role. Some have suggested that the rock represents the sun during the day and at night it can be filled with water as a mirror of the stars. The two rooms have been associated with the solstices. As is known, the Inca civilization had an advanced knowledge regarding astronomy and often built their structures with it in mind.

The two rooms and the giant rock are located in the northern part of the ruins, and despite rigorous studies, it has yet to be discovered what secrets they hold. It has only been agreed upon that they were not casually created.

Modern day Uses of the Stone Fortress Site

These days the Pucará de Rumicucho, like many Andean archaeological sites, serves sacred connection to the past. The location on the equator has connected it to a ritual of the “hombre sin sombra” (man without a shadow.) Many indigenous shamans have used this space for rituals during solstices.

The site is also popular for tourists and students. The well-maintained space and beautiful views has created interest for local and to a lesser extent foreign tourism. For these reasons the stone fortress has been routinely visited since Almeida’s excavations in 1976.

Due to the number of visitors to the site for sacred, educational and touristic purposes, there is a real concern by local authorities for the future of the Pucará de Rumicucho. The urban advance also threatens as Ecuador’s capital city continues to grow. One can hope that the well-planned Incan astronomy as well as the archaeological and sacred value of the site will preserve it.

Featured image: The ruins of the Pucará de Rumicucho, San Antonio de Pichincha, Ecuador (INyar/Flickr)

By Alicia McDermott

How do you visit Pucará de Rumicucho from Quito?

The easiest way is to pair it with the equator. Visit the Mitad del Mundo monument and Intiñán Museum in the morning, then take a short taxi ride north through San Antonio de Pichincha to Rumicucho. By public transport, ride the Metrobus-Q or Trolebús to La Ofelia terminal ($0.35 in 2026) and take the “Mitad del Mundo” bus; from San Antonio, a local taxi is the simplest last step. Agree the fare before you get in.

If you want context before you go, Quito’s Old Town tells the other half of the story: the Inca city that stood here, and what the Spanish built on top of it.

Related guides

• Mitad del Mundo: monuments, history and how to visit
• A short history of Quito, from Inca city to UNESCO Old Town
• Ingapirca, Ecuador’s largest Inca site
• Laguna Yahuarcocha and the Inca conquest of the north
• Things to do in Quito

Plan it with us

Questions about getting around Quito? Drop by our office at Pedro Fermín Cevallos N6-78 y Olmedo, on the edge of the Old Town, message us on WhatsApp at +593 97 953 3832, or write to info@communitytravel.ec. Our local guides answer every day and can help you plan the rest of your Ecuador trip.

Frequently asked questions

Het bericht Pucará de Rumicucho: The Inca Fortress Near Quito’s Equator verscheen eerst op Community Adventures Ecuador.