TelefériQo Cable Car — Attraction in Belisario Quevedo

We arrived to the TeleferiQo about 10 am on a Tuesday. There were very few people taking the gondolas up to the mountain top. We were asked to wash our hands with soap and water before entering the building. Then we got our temperature checked and we went in to purchase the tickets. The tickets cost $8.50 per person. The funicular is set up just like a ski lift, with a number of gondolas continuously circling, so you don’t have to wait too long for the next one. It takes about 20 minutes to get to the top. Once we left the little cabin, one of the staff quickly sprayed it with disinfectant. It was definitely much cooler and windier at 4,000 meter height. Don’t forget to bring a windbreaker :) Also, keep in mind that weather in Quito area changes very quickly and unpredictably. If the morning has clear sky, it is a good sign that you should take the TeleferiQo up, otherwise, if it is too cloudy, you will not be able to enjoy the magnificent views of the city below you. As you exit the gondola, to your right you will see a little store with all sorts of merchandise, in the back of the store they have a “bridge” that stretches out into space. You could take some fun pictures there, and it costs only $1 per person to go out on that terrace. Afterwards, you can take a rather steep “stairway” higher up, where they have a swing set, also fun pictures to take, and a number of gazebos and benches to enjoy the view. If you are feeling truly adventurous, which we did not, you can take a hike up the mountain peak located beyond. A few people could be seen walking up that mountain. Apparently, it would take about 3 hours each way to climb up that summit. We spent about 2 hours at the top. Keep in mind that the air is much thinner at that altitude, so to those who are not accustomed to such conditions, walking up takes more effort. Also, one in every few gondolas has a bike rack attached to it, it seems that many people like to bring their bicycles up to the mountains to ride them at the top, or to take them down the slopes; there's a nice path one can use to ride or to walk to the bottom. Not sure how steep it is or how long it would take. We really loved the TeleferiQo, a...

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...

Riding the TelefériQo in Quito was an experience that was both thrilling and, let's be honest, a little bit daunting. The views? Absolutely spectacular. But the altitude? That's a whole other story. First, the good stuff: the cable car itself is fantastic. It's smooth, modern, and those floor-to-ceiling windows offer truly panoramic views of Quito. As you ascend, the city sprawls out below you, a tapestry of colorful buildings nestled in the Andean foothills. It's incredibly photogenic, and I took a ton of pictures. The way the city is cradled by the mountains is just breathtaking. The ride up is quick, but it feels like you're entering a different world. The landscape changes dramatically as you climb, from the urban cityscape to the rugged, windswept paramo. And once you reach the top, the views get even better. You can see for miles in every direction, with the snow-capped peaks of the Andes looming in the distance. Now, for the altitude. I’d been in Quito for a few days, so I thought I was somewhat acclimated, but the TelefériQo takes you up even higher, to over 4,000 meters (13,000 feet). And boy, did I feel it. Even with a slow pace, just walking around at the top was a bit of a struggle. I felt lightheaded, a little dizzy, and my heart was definitely pounding. I had a slight headache, and felt a bit nauseous. I saw other people who were clearly struggling as well. So, if you're planning to go, be prepared. Take it easy, drink plenty of water, and maybe bring some altitude sickness medication if you're prone to it. Despite the altitude challenges, I'm glad I went. The views were truly unforgettable, and it's a unique way to experience the beauty of Quito and the surrounding mountains. Just remember to respect the altitude, and you'll have a fantastic time. It's a must do, just...