A couple of years ago, while traveling the world, I stopped over in Quito, Ecuador, on my way to the Galapagos Islands. I had no idea what to expect, but I had heard great things about Quito along the backpackers’ trail. It was Easter weekend, and I was excited to experience the Quito Easter weekend festivities.
I arrived in Quito in The Middle of The Night
I arrived in Quito late at night and felt a bit uneasy in a new city, not knowing how safe it was. The only option to get to the historic district was a 40-minute taxi ride that cost USD 20. There was a lot to look at, with many neighbourhoods built on the mountain along the main highway. We passed by the Virgin of El Panecillo statue, which signalled my entrance into the historic district. I would learn that this statue is the most significant landmark in the city, foreshadowing the city’s deep Catholic roots.
Checking In to My Hostel for Easter Weekend in Quito
Upon arriving at my hostel, Viajero Quito Hostel, I was surprised that the streets were dead—not a soul in sight. I settled my fare with the taxi driver and checked into my hostel. While checking in, the front desk staff read the riot act, urging me not to leave the hostel after dark. They shared a story about a woman who was mugged while picking up her Uber order at the front entrance. Clearly, I wouldn’t be closing the bars down in Quito. However, they assured me that the city was safe during the day and mentioned a free walking tour. They suggested the “Good Friday” tour with many Quito Easter weekend festivities to enjoy, including their famous Easter parade.
Curious to know why I stay in hostels even though I can afford expensive hotels. Read my blog Hostels for Solo Travel at 49.
Things You Should Know About Quito Before Visiting
When I arrived in Quito, I knew little about the city, so I am sharing some important facts. This will help you prepare for your trip to Quito, Ecuador.
Quito is a High-Altitude City
If you struggle with high altitudes, Quito may not be the city for you as it sits 2850 meters above sea level. I had no idea how I would adjust, as I had never been at such a high altitude. As it turned out, I did struggle to breathe while sleeping at night, but I was fine otherwise. I suggest packing some sunscreen, as you are closer to the sun. Looking at my Quito pics, you will see that I always had a red face.
A fun fact: FIFA created an altitude rule for World Cup qualifying, thanks to Quito. The Ecuadorian national team played all their qualifying matches in Quito, which is at the highest elevation in Ecuador. This led to complaints from the Brazilians, resulting in a new rule that prohibits qualifying matches at elevations higher than 2500 meters above sea level.
The Historic District Shuts Down at Night – Even for Quito Easter Weekend Festivities
The historic district has a strict curfew that takes effect at dusk. One night, I was dining at a restaurant near my hostel when we received a 30-minute warning. On Saturday, I saw day clubs lined up with young people ready to party in the afternoon. The city is very dangerous after dark, and the historic district effectively shuts down.
Quito Has Frequent Earthquakes
One day, I was relaxing in my room when the building began to shake for 20 to 30 seconds before it finally stopped. I froze for a moment before running to the lobby to ask if we had just had an earthquake. With her head down, the person at the front desk replied, “Yep, as if it had happened a thousand times before.” That was because it had! I learned that earthquakes are common in Quito and throughout Ecuador, so don’t be alarmed if you experience one.
Quito Has a Gang Problem
I wasn’t in Medellín, Colombia, in the ’90s, but I feel that Quito is a 2025 version of Medellín. It may not be quite that severe, but Quito does have a serious gang problem. This is mainly driven by cartels, with drug wars taking center stage. I remember my first night in Quito, hearing nothing but the roar of Harleys on the streets from the hostel.
Quito Historic District Vibe
The Quito historic district is over 500 years old and features Spanish Colonial architecture. It seems there is an old church on every block with a steady flow of worshipers. Architecturally, Quito is one of my favourite cities in the world. The vibrant city boasts incredible shopping, local markets, top-notch restaurants, and coffee. Many narrow streets house coffee stalls with the best coffee you will ever find. The city is so fun to explore during the day that you will never feel bored. My only regret is not being able to go out at night to enjoy the culture and vibrant atmosphere of the city.
Quito Easter Weekend Festivities
I booked the free walking tour on Good Friday. The hostel staff did an excellent job getting me excited and explaining the significance of Easter in Quito. We spent some time at Independence Square, the main square of the historic district. This seemed to be the hub for the Quito Easter Weekend festivities, or Semana Santa, as Ecuadorians call it. There were Easter bunnies and people dressed as Transformers for the kids, as well as entertainment and many devout Catholics. I thoroughly enjoyed my afternoon at the square and even scored a SIM card with unlimited data for just $3.
I visited Ecuador’s National Basilica
Next, we visited the Basilica del Voto Nacional, Ecuador’s national and only basilica. This site is a national treasure for Ecuadorians, and its significance is heightened on Good Friday, the country’s most important religious holiday.
The trek to the Basilica del Voto Nacional began. It was a long, steep trek up the cobblestone streets, surrounded by colonial architecture and a historic vibe. It had a pilgrimage feel, with groups of locals making the religious journey. When we reached the top of the hill, there stood the basilica, and hundreds of worshipers joined us. I have yet to see a basilica as impressive as this one. My mind was officially blown.
We Explored the Basilica del Voto Nacional
I spent some time walking the grounds and admiring this beautiful church. A fellow traveler in the group offered to take a pic of me in front of the church, and then it was time to explore the interior. The interior was magnificent, with an impressive altar, sculptures throughout, and incredible stained-glass artwork. It was a beautiful church inside and out, but the best was yet to come.
We Climbed to the Top to the Basilica Towers
After touring the church inside, we had the opportunity to climb to the top. Many declined the opportunity, as it was a narrow, winding stairway leading to the Basilica towers. I proceeded carefully, watching every step and not looking down since it was quite high. There was no railing, and with one slip, I would be a goner; this would never be legal in Canada.
Once we reached the summit, the view was stunning. Approaching the towers, I had the best view of the city, with the Virgin of El Panecillo statue at the center of it all. The panoramic view of the city between the towers makes for a perfect Instagram moment. If you’re in Quito, I recommend visiting the Basilica del Voto Nacional, if for no other reason than the city view. For me, this was a very special Quito Easter Weekend experience.
It Was Time to Find the Perfect Spot to Watch the Quito Easter Parade
The Good Friday parade, which is actually called the Jesus of Great Power Procession in Quito, is a big deal for the locals. The cobblestone streets were lined with locals looking to catch a glimpse of the parade. Fortunately, an amazing local tour guide helped us find the perfect spot along the parade route.
The Easter Parade Was a Sea of Purple
My first glimpse of the parade was of Jesus wearing a crown of thorns and carrying a wooden cross through the streets of Quito. As we walked through the historic district, as far as the eye could see, it was a sea of purple. Thousands of people in the parade wore purple hooded robes, with many versions of Jesus with a cross. I have never witnessed a parade like this, filled with such passion. I didn’t know Easter parades existed until I arrived in Quito for Easter weekend. As it turns out, parades are a part of the Easter weekend celebrations throughout Central and South America.
I Had Ecuador’s Traditional Easter Meal
One night, I sat at my hostel bar talking to the bartender, who mentioned that I had to try Fanesca. What? Fanesca is a traditional dish served only on Easter Sunday in Ecuador. It’s a hearty soup with 12 beans and grains representing the apostles. Other ingredients include salted cod, milk, squash, cabbage, spices, and garnishes like hard-boiled eggs.
It Was My Easter Weekend Mission to Find Fanesca
The bartender recommended a restaurant called San Ignacio, which was a short walk from my hostel and served the best Fanesca. I sat on the patio and watched a brilliant guitarist play Latin classics while I waited for the Fanesca. The ambiance was perfect, and now, so was the Fanesca. It was incredible, and there is nothing I can compare it to. You have to try this dish if given the chance.
After devouring the Fanesca, the waiter suggested I try another Ecuadorian Easter favourite, Higos Con Queso. This popular dessert dish translates to “figs with cheese “in English and is only found in Ecuador. The figs are served with soft cheese and syrup poured over them. All I can say is they were next-level and among the best desserts I’ve ever had. This was the perfect ending to an epic Easter weekend in Quito.
In Canada, Easter is quite commercial, and we are losing the true meaning of the holiday. It was amazing to witness Ecuadorians’ faith in Jesus Christ. This weekend was special for me as I felt my mother’s presence; she was a devout Catholic. She would have loved the basilica, the parade, the faith of the people, and the city’s vibe. Quito, Ecuador, will forever hold a special place in my heart, and I can’t wait to return. But until then, I will never forget my perfect Quito Easter weekend.
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