7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Quito

Quito, is a haven for digital nomads, offering a blend of urban life and access to nature. While the city itself is rich in culture and history, the surrounding areas provide a plethora of weekend getaway options. From well-known tourist spots to hidden gems, there's something for every type of traveler. Here are seven destinations that are perfect for a short trip away from the hustle and bustle of Quito.

Mindo

Nestled in the cloud forests of Ecuador, Mindo is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This small town is renowned for its biodiversity, especially its many species of birds and butterflies. Visitors can indulge in activities such as zip-lining, hiking, and visiting butterfly farms and orchid gardens. The Mindo Nambillo Cloud Forest Reserve is a must-visit for those looking to immerse themselves in the lush greenery and vibrant wildlife.

How to Get There: The best way to get to Mindo is by bus, which takes about two hours from Quito. Buses depart regularly from the Carcelén bus terminal.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to take a chocolate tour to learn about the chocolate-making process and sample some of the finest in the region.

Where to Stay: Casa de Piedra offers a cozy stay with an on-site restaurant and river views, while Dragonfly Inn Mindo provides a tranquil setting with beautiful gardens.

Where to Eat: El Quetzal is famous for its chocolate desserts and also serves a variety of local and international dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.

Otavalo

Otavalo is home to one of the largest and most vibrant indigenous markets in South America. Every Saturday, the Plaza de Ponchos fills with locals and tourists alike, browsing through colorful textiles, handicrafts, and jewelry. Beyond the market, the surrounding area offers beautiful lakes, such as Laguna Cuicocha, and opportunities for cultural experiences with local communities.

How to Get There: Otavalo is about a two-hour drive from Quito. Buses leave frequently from the Carcelén bus terminal.

Travel Tip: Visit on a market day to experience the full array of products and the bustling atmosphere, but also consider staying for the quieter weekdays to explore the town and nearby attractions.

Where to Stay: Hostal Doña Esther is a charming colonial-style inn with an excellent on-site Italian restaurant, Árbol de Montalvo.

Where to Eat: La Cosecha Coffee offers a great selection of coffees and light bites, perfect for a break from shopping at the market.

Quilotoa

The Quilotoa Loop is a stunning trek that leads to the Quilotoa Crater Lake, a water-filled caldera with mesmerizing turquoise waters. The trek can take several days, but for a weekend trip, you can visit the lake directly. The view from the rim is breathtaking, and there are options for kayaking or hiking around the crater.

How to Get There: Quilotoa is approximately a three to four-hour bus ride from Quito. Buses depart from the Quitumbe bus terminal.

Travel Tip: The hike down to the lake is steep, so wear good shoes and take it slow. Donkeys are available for those who prefer not to hike back up.

Where to Stay: Hostal Chukirawa offers a comfortable stay with stunning views of the lake and a restaurant serving local cuisine.

Where to Eat: Café Taita Cristobal in the village of Quilotoa provides hearty meals with a view, perfect after a day of hiking.

Papallacta

Papallacta is famous for its hot springs, set against a backdrop of the Andes mountains. The thermal baths are the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate after a week of work. The area also offers opportunities for hiking and bird watching in the surrounding paramo ecosystem.

How to Get There: Papallacta is about an hour and a half drive from Quito. Buses are available from the Quitumbe bus terminal.

Travel Tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid the crowds that flock to the hot springs on weekends.

Where to Stay: Termas de Papallacta offers luxurious accommodations with direct access to the hot springs and spa services.

Where to Eat: The restaurant at Termas de Papallacta serves up traditional Ecuadorian dishes with a focus on fresh, local trout.

Isinliví

Isinliví is a lesser-known destination that serves as a gateway to the rural beauty of the Andean highlands. It's a starting or ending point for the Quilotoa Loop and offers a more authentic experience of the Ecuadorian countryside. The village itself is tranquil, and the surrounding landscapes are ideal for hiking and horseback riding.

How to Get There: Reaching Isinliví requires a bus to Latacunga and then a transfer to a local bus or a taxi for the remainder of the journey, which can take around three hours in total from Quito.

Travel Tip: Stay at a local guesthouse and take the time to interact with the community to learn about their way of life and traditions.

Where to Stay: Llullu Llama Mountain Lodge is a popular choice for its cozy accommodations, friendly staff, and stunning mountain views.

Where to Eat: The dining experience at Llullu Llama is communal, with delicious home-cooked meals shared among guests.

Yunguilla Valley

The Yunguilla Valley is a peaceful retreat from the city, known for its pleasant climate and fruit orchards. It's an excellent spot for agro-tourism, with opportunities to learn about local farming practices and sustainable living. The area is also developing a reputation for its small-scale cheese and wine production.

How to Get There: The Yunguilla Valley is about a two-hour drive southwest of Quito. Private transport is recommended as public buses are infrequent.

Travel Tip: Visit a local farm to participate in cheese-making workshops or to pick your own fruits during the harvest season.

Where to Stay: There are various eco-lodges and guesthouses in the area, such as the Yunguilla Community Guesthouse, which supports local development projects.

Where to Eat: Many accommodations offer meals prepared with local ingredients, but be sure to try the artisanal cheeses available in the valley.

El Ángel Ecological Reserve

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, El Ángel Ecological Reserve in the northern Andes is a unique destination. The reserve is home to the otherworldly frailejones—tall, furry plants that are endemic to the region. The landscape here feels like stepping onto another planet, with its high-altitude páramo ecosystem and serene lagoons.

How to Get There: El Ángel is approximately a five-hour drive from Quito. It's best reached by private vehicle or by taking a bus to the town of El Ángel and then arranging local transport to the reserve.

Travel Tip: Dress in layers as the weather can change rapidly at high altitudes, and be prepared for hiking through wet and muddy conditions.

Where to Stay: Accommodations are limited near the reserve, but there are a few guesthouses in the town of El Ángel, such as Hostal El Angel.

Where to Eat: Dining options are scarce near the reserve, so it's advisable to bring your own food and snacks for the trip or to eat at local eateries in the town of El Ángel.