Quito: Old Town Highlights & Food Tour

La Ronda, Ecuador



Learn the legends of Quito and explore the historic center. Get hands-on with a woodcarving lesson. Enjoy a chocolate tasting and a local ice cream.

Quito Historic Walking Tour with Woodcarving, Chocolate, and Ice Cream Tasting

This guided walking tour in Quito’s Old Town suits travelers interested in history, local crafts, and culinary experiences.

Highlights

  • Explore Quito’s historic center while hearing stories and legends of key landmarks
  • Visit one of the city’s oldest woodcarving workshops and try carving yourself
  • Taste premium chocolates at a local chocolate factory
  • Sample ice cream made with unique South American ingredients
  • Join a carbon neutral tour led by an eco-certified operator

Description

Begin your tour walking from Independence Plaza to the Independence Monument, the city’s cathedral, the Archbishop’s Palace, and Carondelet Palace, Ecuador’s government seat. Your guide narrates the history and significance of these important buildings.

Continue to La Compañía de Jesús, a Jesuit church known for its volcanic stone façade and interior covered in gold leaf. Visit the University of San Gregorio, then stroll through ancient streets to La Ronda, a traditional Quito street.

Stop at a historic woodcarving workshop to watch artisans carve, gold-plate, and set designs in the classic Quito style. You can ask questions and even try carving yourself.

Next, participate in a traditional chocolate-making session and sample several chocolate varieties at a local factory. Finish at a traditional ice cream shop to taste flavors like morocho corn and quinoa.

Includes

  • Local guide
  • Entrance fees
  • Chocolate-making session and tasting
  • Ice cream tasting

Excludes

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off

Important Information

  • This carbon neutral tour is operated by a B Corp certified company committed to responsible tourism and measuring social and environmental impacts.

Easy Cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For the best experience, wear comfortable shoes and bring water. Morning tours typically provide cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Book in advance to secure your place.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour starts at Independence Plaza in Quito’s historic center.
The tour includes visits to landmarks such as the Independence Monument, the city cathedral, and the Archbishop’s Palace.
Yes, the tour includes a visit to one of Quito’s oldest woodcarving workshops where you can try the craft yourself.
You can sample Ecuadorian chocolate from a local factory and taste ice cream made from unique South American ingredients.
Yes, the tour is carbon neutral and operated by an eco-certified company focused on sustainable tourism in Ecuador.
Tour durations vary, so it’s best to check the website for the current schedule and exact timing.
Advance booking is recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak tourist seasons in Ecuador.
The tour is suitable for most ages, but young children may need supervision due to walking and workshop activities.
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are advised since most of the tour takes place outdoors in Quito’s historic center.

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