Chris V
Google
The TelefériQo cable car in Quito is one of the best attractions in the city and something I would absolutely recommend to anyone visiting. For just a small ticket price, you get a smooth ride up the mountainside in the cable car, and the views overlooking all of Quito are breathtaking — especially on a clear day. You can see the city stretch out below and the surrounding Andean peaks, which makes it a photographer’s dream.
Once you get to the top station, there are restaurants, snack shops, and scenic lookout points where you can enjoy the views before starting the hike to Rucu Pichincha volcano. The hike itself is about 10 km round trip and typically takes 2–3 hours depending on your pace and how often you stop. While the trail is fairly well-marked and easy to follow, it is at very high altitude, so you will feel the thinner air. This makes the hike more challenging than it looks at first, but that’s also part of the adventure.
I recommend bringing a warm jacket, sunscreen, and plenty of water, as the weather at the top changes quickly — it can go from warm and sunny to cold and windy within minutes. Good shoes or hiking boots are also a plus because parts of the trail can be steep and rocky. If you are planning the full hike, allow at least 5–6 hours total (including the cable car ride, photos, and the trek itself).
What makes this experience special is the combination of accessibility (just a short ride from Quito city center), incredible panoramic views, and the sense of adventure you get from hiking a volcano above 4,000 meters. It’s a great half-day trip that can be enjoyed by couples, solo travelers, or families with older kids who can handle the altitude.
Overall, an unforgettable experience in Quito and a highlight of my time in Ecuador. If you enjoy hiking, nature, or just want to see the city from one of the best vantage points possible, the TelefériQo and Rucu Pichincha hike are not to be missed.