Quito, a city renowned for its colonial charm and vibrant culture, now invites visitors to explore its greener side. Beyond the iconic squares and rich cuisine, the city is known for its well-tended metropolitan parks, urban oases that offer a refreshing complement to the traditional tourist experience.

In the Metropolitan District of Quito, there are 15 metropolitan parks that are home to hundreds of heritage trees. With species including the majestic cypress, royal palm, and pumamaqui, these parks safeguard 450 of Quito’s most historically significant trees.

More than just green spaces, these parks are hubs of activity, where visitors can enjoy lagoons, playgrounds, sports facilities, and winding bike paths. There are dedicated pet areas, on-site museums and the stunning La Carolina Botanical Garden.

Adventure seekers can hit the extensive hiking and biking trails, perfect for immersing oneself in nature or enjoying quality time with loved ones.
Metro Sur, managed by the Metropolitan Public Company of Mobility and Public Works (EPMMOP) along with the other 14 parks, stands out as the city’s largest green space. At 670 hectares (equivalent to 1,046 professional football fields) it’s a true urban wilderness.

These parks play a crucial role in environmental conservation while offering unique opportunities to connect with nature in the heart of the ’most beautiful city in the world’.

Quito’s 15 metropolitan parks:

1.  La Carolina: Spanning 62 hectares in the city’s northern financial district,
this park boasts attractions like the Botanical Garden, Vivarium, bicycle circuit, and skating areas.

2.  Bicentenario: Located in the north, this 103-hectare park is a sports enthusiast’s dream.  Easy access via the El Labrador Metro station makes it a convenient destination.

3.  Guangüiltagua: This northern gem covers 559 hectares, featuring extensive walking and cycling trails amidst diverse trees and birds.

4.  Itchimbía: This 54-hectare park is centrally located.
It offers breathtaking views of Quito’s Historic Centre and hosts popular games, concerts, and outdoor activities on its esplanade.

5.  Equinoccial: Found in Pomasqui, northwest of the city, this 17-hectare park provides sports facilities, recreational areas. It also offers a network of ecological trails that wind through its forests.

6.  Armenia: Nestled in Valle de Los Chillos, southeast of Quito, this 30-hectare park features 13 trails named after mythological beings like Centaur, Dragon, Goblins, Minotaur, Unicorn, and Fairies.

7.  Cuscungo: This 11-hectare park in southern Quito’s Puengasí parish offers a walking track, children’s playgrounds, and sports courts.

8.  Las Cuadras: Located in southern Quito near the Morán Valverde Metro station,  this 24-hectare park features an ecological trail dedicated to Quito’s frogs, symbolising environmental conservation.

9.  Carollo: This 30-hectare southern park is a haven for sports enthusiasts, ideal for hockey, skating, gymnastics, athletics, and swimming.

10. Metro Sur: The city’s largest park at 667 hectares.
Found in the southern part of the city, it is traversed by the ancient ‘Qhapaq Ñan’, the ancient Inca road system that connected the Inca Empire from north to south.

11.  Chaquiñán: This 63-hectare park in Tumbaco valley is surrounded by inter-Andean dry forest and criss-crossed with cyclist-friendly nature trails.

12.  El Ejido:  This 13-hectare historic park in the city centre is home to monuments and weekend displays of local art, crafts, and traditional products.

13.  La Alameda: Covering 6 hectares in the city centre, it houses South America’s first astronomical observatory. It also features ’El Churo de La Alameda’, Quito’s oldest viewpoint.

14.  De la Mujer: This 6-hectare park is located in the northern-central part of the city. It invites visitors to explore over 15 sculptures and plaques commemorating women and children.

15.  Chilibulo: Located in Chillogallo parish in the south, this 320-hectare park offers extensive hiking trails for nature lovers.