Burial and Archeological Sites, Museums plus Ecuadorian Food

This new tour focuses on the history, archeology, culture and contemporary art of San Francisco de "Quitu" (the land of the middle), the capital of Ecuador, founded by the Spanish conquistadors in 1534, briefly occupied by the Incas and previously inhabited by different indigenous tribes through millennia. In the morning, we'll visit 2 archeological sites (within the city) located on the foothills of Pichincha volcano, the huge adjacent mountain west of Quito; at noon, the lunch-break shall be an opportunity for tasting some local food depending on your taste and diet. In the afternoon, a quick general overview of the country's history and culture with a visit to one of the most important national museums; then, in our last stop we'll learn about the last resting place, passion and work of Oswaldo Guayasamin, arguably the most famous Ecuadorian artist; after visiting his house and private art collection, his studio and the "Capilla del Hombre" gallery.

Pick up and drive to Rumipamba Park for a long walk around the ancient archaeological remains, accidentally discovered some twenty years ago, during the construction of a housing project. After a 15 minute drive, we'll visit La Florida Museum to learn about the trading and funeral customs of the peoples from a millennium and a half ago. The lunch-break shall be the chance for experiencing and enjoying some local food: empanadas with coffee, ceviche, hornado, encebollado... you decide. No later than 1 pm we shall visit Ecuador's National Museum to enjoy its pottery, gold and religious art exhibitions. After a 15 minute drive, our last visit will be to The Chapel of Man and Casa-Museo Guayasamin, the last resting place and atelier of Oswaldo Guayasamin, our most well known international artist. Finally we drive back to your hotel to finish the tour.