Overview
Quito is the capital city of Ecuador, located in the Andes mountain range at an altitude of 2,850 meters (9,350 feet) above sea level. With a population of around 2.8 million people, it is the second most populous city in Ecuador after Guayaquil. Quito is known for its stunning colonial architecture, including the historic center, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978. The city also has many museums, parks, and cultural attractions. Quito is also a gateway to the Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest and the Galapagos Islands, making it a popular destination for tourists from around the world. Despite being located on the equator, Quito has a mild climate due to its high altitude, with temperatures averaging around 15°C (59°F) year-round.