Quito, Ecuador’s capital, lies high in the Andes at an elevation of about 2,850 meters and is one of the world’s highest capital cities. Its exceptionally well-preserved historic center, recognized as a Historic Centre of Quito, combines colonial churches, monasteries, plazas, and narrow streets with dramatic mountain scenery. The city stretches through a long valley, while viewpoints such as El Panecillo, the hill overlooking the historic center from the south, offer broad views across the urban landscape. Quito is both a cultural center and a natural gateway to the Ecuadorian Andes.
We spent about ten days in Quito altogether, returning two different times during our journey through Ecuador. The photographs cover many of the city’s best-known landmarks as well as everyday scenes, including views from El Panecillo. One of the highlights was witnessing and photographing the May Day (Labour Day) demonstrations on 1 May, which brought a different energy to the streets and became one of the most memorable parts of our time in the capital.
All images on this site are free to download and use for non-commercial purposes, provided that credit is given by linking back to this website. For commercial use licensing or high-resolution files, please contact me.
Click on any photo to view the slideshow


















































































































































































Browse hundreds more photo albums from my travels around the world using the map below (click the pins) or the submenu above.
