El Panecillo Quito
Iconic hill crowned by a towering aluminum statue of the Virgin of Quito, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Maximize visibility of city views
El Panecillo Quito
Best Time
Maximize visibility of city views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic hill crowned by a towering aluminum statue of the Virgin of Quito, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
"The view standing at the top of Quito is breathtaking. "
Taxi Fare Check
Confirm taxi fares before your ride to avoid overcharging. Use ride-sharing apps for transparent pricing. :taxi:
Weather Watch
Check the weather forecast for clear skies to enjoy the best panoramic views. Clouds can obscure the city. :cloud:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Virgin of Quito Statue
Summit of El Panecillo hill
A towering 41m aluminum statue of the Virgin Mary, this iconic landmark dominates the Quito skyline.
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Panoramic City Views
El Panecillo hill
Experience breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Quito, especially stunning at sunset or illuminated at night.
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Local Legends and History
El Panecillo hill
Discover intriguing local legends and the historical significance of this prominent landmark.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Navigating to El Panecillo
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Taxi Fare Check
Confirm taxi fares before your ride to avoid overcharging. Use ride-sharing apps for transparent pricing. :taxi:
Weather Watch
Check the weather forecast for clear skies to enjoy the best panoramic views. Clouds can obscure the city. :cloud:
Quick Visit Possible
You can see the statue and views in about 10-15 minutes if you're short on time. :stopwatch:
Drone Photography
Capture stunning aerial shots of the statue and city from above.
Tips
from all over the internet
Taxi Fare Check
Confirm taxi fares before your ride to avoid overcharging. Use ride-sharing apps for transparent pricing. :taxi:
Weather Watch
Check the weather forecast for clear skies to enjoy the best panoramic views. Clouds can obscure the city. :cloud:
Quick Visit Possible
You can see the statue and views in about 10-15 minutes if you're short on time. :stopwatch:
Drone Photography
Capture stunning aerial shots of the statue and city from above.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise El Panecillo for its breathtaking panoramic views of Quito and the impressive Virgin of Quito statue. It's considered a must-visit for its scenic beauty and iconic landmark. Some note that the visit can be brief, and weather can impact the views.
"Beautiful place with a great views of Quito! You can also find tasty food here."
Anastasia Bilous
"Virgo panecilla we took a taxi cab and asked him to wait. It's worth the trip up for the view, which for us was cloudy, but still nice. The statue itself is worthwhile to see up close. We finished the walking around up top in 10min. We could have spent longer, but the cab was waiting and I didn't want him to leave. You don't need a tour or a guide. You can easily do the whole trip for less than $10."
jay altieri
"The view standing at the top of Quito is breathtaking. At day or at night El Panecillo is a beautiful place and statue to view the city. You can also walk to the top of her to see better. The city is so beautiful lit up."
Cassandra Dunnings
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach El Panecillo by taxi, ride-sharing apps like Uber, or local buses. Taxis are readily available from the Historic Center, but it's advisable to confirm the fare beforehand or use an app for a set price. Some bus routes also go near the base of the hill.
While generally safe, it's wise to be cautious with taxi fares. Using ride-sharing apps like Uber can offer more transparency and security.
It's possible to walk, but the climb is steep and can be strenuous. It's generally recommended to take a taxi or bus for convenience, especially if you're not accustomed to high altitudes.
Taxi fares from the Historic Center can range from $2.50 to $5 USD, depending on the service and negotiation. Using ride-sharing apps often provides a more economical option.
Yes, many guided tours of Quito's Historic Center include a stop at El Panecillo, offering historical context and insights.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a small fee for parking and for entering the statue area itself, typically around $1 USD each.
El Panecillo is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to visit when there's ample light for sightseeing and photography.
Yes, there is a nominal fee to access the area around and inside the statue.
While the statue is visible at night and offers illuminated city views, access to the summit area might be restricted after dark.
No, tickets are typically purchased on-site, and advance booking is not usually required.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
Golden hour, just before sunset, offers spectacular lighting for cityscapes. Clear mornings also provide excellent visibility.
Drone photography is popular here, offering unique aerial perspectives of the statue and city. Ensure you comply with local drone regulations.
The summit offers unobstructed 360-degree views of the entire city and surrounding valleys.
Generally, photography is allowed, but be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage.
El Panecillo is situated at a high altitude, so it's advisable to acclimatize to Quito's elevation before visiting.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, you can find local food vendors and small eateries at the base or near the summit of El Panecillo, offering traditional Ecuadorian snacks and meals.
Expect to find typical Ecuadorian street food and snacks.
Many visitors enjoy the local food options available, adding to the cultural experience.
While there are food stalls, dedicated restaurants with panoramic views are less common directly at the summit. The focus is more on the views and the statue.
Bringing your own water and snacks is generally acceptable, especially for longer visits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as options at the summit might be limited. While the climb can be steep, taking a taxi or bus to the top makes it accessible. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the opportunity for drone photography to capture unique aerial perspectives. +1 Be prepared for changing light conditions and potential cloud cover, which can add to the dramatic atmosphere. 🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Virgin of Quito Statue
+1 It depicts the Virgin Mary with wings, a unique representation that adds to its mystique. The statue was completed in 1975 and has since become a beloved symbol of Quito, watching over the city from its elevated perch. Many visitors are captivated by the sheer scale and intricate details of the statue. Its presence is felt throughout the city, and standing at its base offers a profound sense of awe. The statue's design is inspired by the original wooden sculpture created in the late 18th century.
Its placement on El Panecillo hill, a natural elevation resembling a small bread roll (hence the name 'Panecillo'), further enhances its dramatic visual impact. Beyond its artistic and architectural significance, the Virgin of Quito statue is also associated with local legends and beliefs. Some tales speak of mysterious occurrences or symbolic meanings tied to the statue, adding a layer of intrigue for visitors interested in local folklore.
Capturing Quito's Skyline: Views from El Panecillo
+1The best times to capture these views are during the golden hour before sunset, when the city lights begin to twinkle, or in the early morning before clouds typically roll in.
Drone photography enthusiasts will find El Panecillo an ideal spot to capture breathtaking aerial shots of the statue and the urban landscape. +1While the views are a primary draw, remember that Quito is at a high altitude. The weather can change rapidly, so checking the forecast before your visit is crucial to ensure you experience the clearest possible vistas.
Legends and Lore of El Panecillo
Another fascinating aspect is the historical significance of the hill itself. It has been a strategic point for centuries, and its unique shape has inspired its name. The legends surrounding El Panecillo often blend religious symbolism with local folklore, creating a rich tapestry of stories passed down through generations.
These narratives, shared through social media and local accounts, offer a deeper understanding of the cultural importance of El Panecillo beyond its visual appeal. They invite visitors to look beyond the surface and engage with the site's captivating history and mythology.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit