Aside from the double decker bus tour and the Equator excursion, we explored other parts of the city on our own. We really enjoyed the historic center so we went there another day and toured the churches and various town squares. We went in and out of the streets exploring parts of a city that you just can't see on a bus.

Michael was specifically interested in the Iglesia de San Francisco. We ended up on a walking tour of the area with a man named John. He was a persistent old guy with few teeth. He told us that back in the day he taught in the states in Wisconsin and near Chicago. This was actually our second encounter with him. We shook him the first day and somehow he found us on the second day. Michael was feeling charitable and curious, so off we went on a 90 minute walking tour. I will say, John did show us parts of the city we would have missed. He did have some interesting information on facts and the history of the city. He did, however, repeat himself on occasion. At the end of the tour, he charged more money than necessary and wouldn't really take less.

Michael and John walking ahead at the Iglesia de San Fransisco

One other thing we were advised to visit was the teleferico or skyrail further up the Andes Mountains near the Pichincha Volcano. Quito is already high, but this will take you up another 1,000 meters to over 4,000 meters. You can hike even higher when you get off the skyrail. We had a beautiful day and the scenery was spectacular. Maeve felt the effects of the altitude and took it easy. Liam and I ventured on for more views and photos. Another spectacular day.

Liam snapped a pic of me a little further up the mountain

A small chapel at the top with paths beyond to continue a hike

Another path that will eventually go even higher

Pretty steep drops, but a lovely view of Quito