Historical Quito With a Gracious Surprise

A visit to this capital opened my eyes in many ways. We visited Ecuador as it opened up again after the pandemic and needed to get back to normal. Quito is a historic city with a gracious surprise — for me at least.

Virgen del Panecillo on top of her mountain looking over the city with the historic centre in front. Photo by author.

We came late afternoon to the international airport a little outside of Quito. Before we got through immigration and got our suitcases it was getting dark. Our host met us there to drive us to her apartment in the city.

Before we got into the city it was dark and the first surprise was delivered by our host while in her car.

“Do not walk outside after sunset. Always take a Cabify or Uber. Do not use the taxis.” As first-time visitors, we naturally asked why she would say that.

Streets of Quito by night. All photos by author.

“It is too dangerous. Gangs control the streets so never walk to a restaurant, always drive.”

That was a first. A warning by our host. She was a very careful and gentle host and we liked her very much. She only wanted us to be safe.