Things to do in Cangahua

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Cangahua must see attractions

1. Monument to the Equator

While Quito may not be unique in its position on the equator, the Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World) Monument made it the most famous example of a city in two hemispheres. The monument is built on the historic site where a French explorer calculated the line of the equator in 1736. Visit the 98-foot (30-meter) monument and stand with one foot in each half of the world.
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Mitad del Mundo Monument which includes a monument, a square or plaza and a garden

2. La Mariscal Craft Market

Peruse intriguing handicrafts and see artisans at work while you browse the stalls of the Mercado Artesanal La Mariscal (La Mariscal Craft Market). Shop for anything from clothing and jewelry to art, children’s toys and textiles. Over 100 stall holders ply their trade in the animated Mercado Artesanal La Mariscal, one of Quito’s best markets for crafts and souvenirs.
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La Mariscal Craft Market featuring markets, street scenes and interior views

3. Catedral Metropolitana de Quito

Find a historical site rich with religious, political and artistic heritage at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito (Catedral Metropolitana de Quito), one of the oldest churches in South America. This 16th-century cathedral features an eclectic mix of architectural styles, from Gothic-Mudéjar (Moorish) to Baroque and neoclassical. Stroll through the historic cathedral to see its ornate naves, chapels, golden high altar and celebrated paintings from the Quito School of Art.
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Quito Cathedral which includes street scenes, heritage architecture and a church or cathedral

4. Foch Square

Experience the wide-ranging and energetic nightlife of Quito amid the bright lights of the vivacious Plaza Foch (Foch Square). Once a rundown intersection in the Mariscal district, today this entertainment square is the beating heart of Quito’s nightlife scene. It’s where locals and tourists alike come to eat, drink, dance and mingle in the bars, restaurants and nightclubs. Plaza Foch is also the setting for live music events and a weekly artisan market.
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Foch Square featuring a square or plaza and street scenes

5. El Panecillo

El Panecillo is a steep hill in Quito’s southern Old Town, so named for its resemblance to a loaf of bread. A towering aluminum statue of the Virgen de Quito (Madonna of Quito) pinnacles the hill and can be seen from many points around the city. Climb the hill to see the monument and enjoy stunning views of the historic Old Town, modern Quito and distant volcanoes.
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El Panecillo showing a statue or sculpture and night scenes

What to do in Cangahua

 

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Discover the most popular places to visit in Cangahua

Mitad del Mundo Monument which includes a monument, a square or plaza and a garden

Monument to the Equator

4.5/5(293 reviews)

Stand with one foot in each hemisphere at this monument to the site where the equator is marked, then spend time in the accompanying planetarium and museum.

Monument to the Equator
La Carolina which includes wildflowers, a park and flowers

Parque La Carolina

4.5/5(39 reviews)

Parque La Carolina is just one of the places to see in Quito, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Make time for the shops and local tours in this culturally rich area.

Parque La Carolina
La Mariscal Craft Market featuring markets, street scenes and interior views

La Mariscal Craft Market

4.5/5(15 reviews)

From Panama hats and wood carvings to musical instruments and hand-knitted items, this vibrant market offers a wide range of Ecuadorian souvenirs and crafts.

La Mariscal Craft Market
Quito Cathedral which includes street scenes, heritage architecture and a church or cathedral

Catedral Metropolitana de Quito

4.5/5(300 reviews)

Discover one of the oldest churches in South America, featuring an intriguing mix of architectural styles, magnificent Catholic artworks and a fascinating history.

Catedral Metropolitana de Quito
Foch Square featuring a square or plaza and street scenes

Foch Square

4/5(140 reviews)

Join Quito’s pulsating nightlife, attend free concerts and shop at an artisanal craft fair at this square in the heart of Quito’s Mariscal district.

Foch Square
El Panecillo showing a statue or sculpture and night scenes

El Panecillo

4.5/5(152 reviews)

Admire an iconic statue and see panoramic views of Quito and its surrounding volcanoes from this green hilltop in the heart of the city’s Old Town.

El Panecillo
Independence Square which includes street scenes and a square or plaza as well as a large group of people

Independence Square

4.5/5(262 reviews)

Rows of stately colonial buildings and a 16th-century cathedral surround this historic civic square on the site where Quito’s Old Town made its humble beginnings.

Independence Square
Basilica of the National Vow showing a church or cathedral, interior views and religious aspects

Basilica of the National Vow

4.5/5(165 reviews)

Visit this magnificent neo-Gothic landmark to admire its fine architecture and Ecuador-themed gargoyles, and the panoramic views from its immense towers.

Basilica of the National Vow
San Francisco Church which includes a church or cathedral and street scenes

St. Francis Catholic Church

4.5/5(158 reviews)

This church and monastery complex is as old as the city itself and features stunning 16th-century architecture, a converted catacomb and 3,500 artworks.

St. Francis Catholic Church

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Cangahua

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Hacienda Cajas

You might make a stop by Cayambe Coca Ecological Reserve while you're exploring Hacienda Cajas.

Hacienda Cajas
See our Where To Stay guide

 

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Popular day trips from Cangahua

Quito featuring landscape views and a city

Quito

Photo by Luis Felipe

Cayambe

Frequently asked questions

Is Cangahua worth visiting?
From retail therapy to history and outdoor adventures, there are many interesting things to do in Cangahua. Remember to experience the area's mix of unmissable sights, culture and local charm.
How do I spend a day in Cangahua?
Once you've checked off the major attractions, spend the rest of your day enjoying the food and retail options in Cangahua.
What is the top tourist attraction in Cangahua?
From budget-conscious activities for all types of travelers to in-demand attractions and tours, scroll up for some unmissable things to do in Cangahua.
Is three days enough to stay in Cangahua?
If you only want to enjoy the most popular attractions, three days is more than enough time for a break in Cangahua. Book for a week or longer for the chance to truly experience the local vibe, tour nearby hotspots and explore some hidden gems.
What are some activities to do in Cangahua with kids?
Planning what to do in Cangahua with kids is easier than ever. Whether you're vacationing with teenagers or little ones, there's a range of family-friendly tours and activities to keep them entertained here.

What to do in Cangahua for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food lover or outdoor adventurer, there's no shortage of things to do in Cangahua for adults.
Are there free things to do in Cangahua?
With loads of free things to do in Cangahua, you can enjoy the area without putting a hole in your wallet. Soak up the vibes at free events and festivals or explore the local neighbourhoods.