Quito is betting on tradition, gastronomy and urban innovation to attract the regional market
Rubén Lara, Director of Promotion for Quito Tourism, presented at the ANATO Tourism Showcase the new seasonal experiences, the infrastructure renovation, and the natural attractions that position the Ecuadorian capital as a comprehensive destination for Latin American travelers
What new features does Quito present at this edition of ANATO?
Quito arrives with new experiences designed especially for the Colombian and regional market. One of the central pillars is three key seasonal events for the city.
The first is Holy Week in Quito, a celebration that transcends religious tourism and allows visitors to discover the cultural syncretism that characterizes South America. In the Ecuadorian capital, colonial traditions that have disappeared in other cities of the region are preserved, such as the Dragging of the Tails at the Cathedral and the traditional Procession of Jesus of Great Power on Good Friday.
During this time, visitors can observe the penitents and those wearing pointed hoods participating in the procession, as well as cultural expressions in nearby parishes, where traditional characters like devils also appear. Gastronomy plays a central role, with fanesca, a soup made with twelve grains representing the apostles and accompanied by dried cod, a symbol of Jesus Christ.
What other major events will take place this year?
In August, the mapping festival will take place, a visual spectacle in which lights, animations, and images are projected onto the facades of heritage churches in the Historic Center. On August 8, 9, and 10, visitors can explore the city's history through these light shows.
In addition, there are gastronomic experiences with top-notch restaurants and internationally renowned chefs, inviting visitors to prepare traditional dishes with local products available year-round thanks to the city's equatorial location.
Under the motto "Feel like the center of the world", Quito reinforces its identity as a cultural and geographical meeting point, a cosmopolitan city that invites both discovery and personal rediscovery.
For those who visited the city a few years ago, what will they find that's new?
The city has undergone a significant infrastructure renovation. The hotel offerings have expanded with modern options, from international chains to boutique hotels that prioritize themed experiences beyond traditional accommodation.
One of the city's greatest advancements is the Quito Metro, which connects the north and south in approximately 20 minutes. Besides being an efficient and accessible means of transportation, it has become a tourist attraction, as it provides direct access to the heart of the Historic Center, in the San Francisco Plaza area.
The tourism sector has also strengthened in nearby rural areas. The Chocó Andino, declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 2018, is promoting community-based, nature, and adventure tourism projects, expanding its offerings beyond the urban environment.
With this combination of tradition, modernization and natural wealth, Quito positions itself as a diverse and complete destination within the regional tourist map.