Quito: promoting authentic and sustainable experiences to attract the Latin American market

What is Quito's proposal for this edition of WTM Latin America?

On this occasion, we have come to showcase the tourist and cultural wealth of the city of Quito. We are promoting authentic experiences that allow visitors to interact directly with our intangible heritage, our artisans, and our living traditions. We want to encourage the development of new tourism products based on real-life experiences, such as workshops with artisans, traditional cooking classes, or visits to the domes of our historic churches.

How does this experiential vision integrate with the rest of the tourism offering?

Quito is a complete destination. In addition to the historical heritage of the city center, declared a World Heritage Site, we highlight the Chocó Andino Biosphere Reserve, which represents our natural wealth. Added to this is a diverse culinary offering that complements any experience, whether cultural, adventure, or nature-based. We aim for tourists to not only visit Quito, but to experience Quito.

What are your expectations for 2024, and how does the national context impact your strategy?

We have high expectations for this year; we trust in recovering pre-pandemic tourism levels, like those of 2019. We know that the political context can influence travel decisions, but we are committed to continued growth in tourism, which is transversal and often apolitical. We are the gateway to a diverse country that includes the Amazon, the coast, the Andes, and, of course, the Galapagos Islands. Promoting Quito also strengthens the rest of Ecuador.

What actions do you have planned after WTM Latin America?

Our international agenda continues with our participation in Adventure Elevate Latin America , held in Bonito, Brazil, where we will showcase our adventure tourism offerings. We will then be at LATA Expo in the United Kingdom, working closely with the Ecuadorian Ministry of Tourism. Additionally, in September, we will host a meeting with operators from the United States and Canada, who will travel to Quito to explore the city, meet with their Ecuadorian counterparts, and generate business opportunities.

What notable events or activities are taking place in Quito next?

We're in the middle of Holy Week, a deeply traditional celebration in Quito. Our Holy Week is internationally recognized for its syncretism between colonial religiosity and local customs. We also have activities planned for the summer that seek to encourage Quito residents to embrace their cultural identity and become the destination's first hosts.

What is the importance of the Brazilian market for Quito?

The Brazilian market is strategic for us. We came to WTM Latin America precisely to strengthen ties, tell our story, and demonstrate that Quito is a vibrant, diverse destination ready to offer unique experiences. We want more Brazilians and Latin Americans to discover who we are and experience the essence of our city.