Quito isn’t just known for its volcanoes; it’s also surrounded by hills that you can hike in a few hours, offering amazing views of the valley and trails for all skill levels. From sharp paramo peaks to easy, family-friendly spots with sculptures and camping areas, Quito’s hills are a great way to break your routine without leaving the city.
In this blog, I suggest five hiking routes: Cerro Puntas (El Quinche), Coturco (Yaruquí), Ilaló (El Tingo), Cerro La Luz (Puéllaro), and Catequilla (San Antonio de Pichincha). You can pick one based on your fitness, time, and sense of adventure. All of them share one thing: they show how Quito is truly surrounded by mountains.
How to Pick and Get Ready for Your Route in the Hills of Quito
Before you go to any mountain, like Rucu Pichincha, remember two things: you’re in the Andes and at a high altitude. This means the weather can change quickly, the slopes may feel harder because there’s less oxygen, and you need to take your time, especially if you’re not used to mountain hiking. If you want to do high altitude hikes in Quito, make sure you know the area and prepare well. Also, always put safety first, especially if you’ll be hiking after dark.
Altitude, Climate, and Difficulty Level
The mountains listed here range from about 2,600 to over 4,300 meters above sea level. For example, Cerro Puntas reaches around 4,400 m at its highest point, and hiking routes often go above 4,300 m with climbs of over 600 m in roughly 10 km. In comparison, Coturco is around 3,580–3,600 m with good elevation gains but is usually less challenging than Cerro Puntas. Ilaló stands at about 3,100–3,200 m near its main landmark and has popular moderate routes between El Tingo, Tumbaco, and La Merced that typically have smaller climbs since many families use them.
On the lower side are Catequilla and Cerro La Luz, which sit around 2,600–2,700 m. These mountains are easy to reach with gentle slopes and focus more on viewpoints and family-friendly walks rather than tough hikes. For example, Catequilla’s main trail only climbs about 200 m.
So it’s important to pick a hill that matches your skill level:
- Easy: short walks with little climbing (like Catequilla), great for families and beginners.
- Moderate: marked trails with some climbing (like Ilaló), good if you hike occasionally.
- Hard: longer hikes with big climbs (like Cerro Puntas), including rocky or moorland parts needing good fitness and experience.
When hiking at high altitudes near Quito, watch the weather closely. It gets cooler and may rain as you go higher. Also, be aware of altitude sickness—take time to adjust properly.
For offline navigation on these trails, I suggest using apps like Maps.me to help you stay on the right path while exploring.
Safety, Gear, and Respect for Nature
Always follow basic mountain rules:
- Wear layers (a t-shirt, a warm layer, and a windproof or waterproof jacket) – these are must-have items for hiking at high altitudes.
- Use shoes with good soles (avoid smooth city sneakers); proper footwear is key for safe hiking in Quito.
- Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen—even on cloudy days.
- Wear a cap, buff, or hat to protect yourself from the wind.
Respecting Private Lands and Moorlands
Some hills like Puntas go through private lands; many routes start from places like estates in Checa or El Quinche and cross rarely visited moorlands. Always follow access rules, pay any fees or permits needed, and never leave trash behind.
Consider Hiring a Guide
If you’re hiking alone or it’s your first time on a moderately hard or difficult hill, think about hiring a local guide or agency. They’ll keep you safe and help you learn more about the area. Here are five hills in Quito suitable for all skill levels.
Cerro Puntas – El Quinche
Suggested level: Moderate to hard
Cerro Puntas is one of the most mountainous spots on this list. It’s located on the edge of the Cayambe-Coca Ecological Reserve in the eastern mountain range. Its name comes from the many rocky peaks that stick out of the moorland like sharp teeth. The highest points are over 4,400 meters tall, and hiking routes range from 10 to 20 km, with elevation gains over 600 meters and several hours of walking. From the top, you get amazing views of nearby volcanoes like Cotopaxi, Cayambe, and Antisana.
You can start from El Quinche or Checa, taking smaller roads to farms that serve as trailheads. The hike goes through grasslands, wetlands, and wide slopes up to the rocky area. In some versions, the last part to the summit involves climbing simple rocks—not technical but exposed—so it’s best to go with a guide and proper gear.
This route is also good for practicing mountaineering skills while enjoying stunning scenery. However, it’s very important to get used to the altitude before trying this hike since high elevations can cause altitude sickness.
This trail is great for people who have already climbed 4,000-meter peaks like Rucu Pichincha or Corazón and want a less crowded adventure with a feeling of exploring high moorlands and wide views toward Cayambe, Antisana, and eastern valleys. It’s not recommended for first-time mountain hikers.
Cerro Coturco – Yaruquí
Recommended level: Easy to moderate
Cerro Coturco stands above Yaruquí and the Tumbaco valley, known for its “sleeping lion” shape when seen from certain angles. The summit is about 3,580–3,600 meters high. The trails mix dirt roads with hillside paths, passing through fields, small forests, and grasslands. This makes it a great choice for families hiking together or people interested in mountain biking.
Many consider it a natural next step after hills like Ilaló: it requires some effort but no difficult technical sections. Hiking routes range from 6 to 16 km, with elevation gains of 500–600 meters, taking about 3 to 4 hours depending on where you start.
The best part of Coturco is its natural 360° viewpoint. On clear days, you can see the whole Tumbaco valley and peaks like Tungurahua, Imbabura, Reventador, Chimborazo, as well as the famous Cotopaxi and Cayambe volcanoes. You’ll also spot the charming town of Otavalo in the valley below. You can hike up or try horseback riding with local guides.
This is a great easy to moderate option: your legs will feel the effort but it’s less challenging than higher hikes over 4,000 meters like Puntas.
Cerro Ilaló – El Tingo
Recommended level: Easy to moderate
El Ilaló is a favorite among Quito locals. It’s an old extinct volcano rising like a green island between the Los Chillos and Tumbaco valleys, with peaks around 3,100 to 3,200 meters. From El Tingo, one popular route climbs well-marked trails through eucalyptus trees and viewpoints. The full round trip takes about 2.5 to 4 hours with an elevation gain of roughly 600 to 800 meters depending on the path chosen.
Besides the famous cross and summit spots, Ilaló offers many trails for running, mountain biking, and family hikes connecting different neighborhoods and communities. Because of this variety, we rate it as easy to moderate—you can choose short walks or more challenging climbs that will get your heart pumping.
The views are amazing too: on clear days you can see the valley and volcanoes like Cotopaxi, Pasochoa, Antisana, and even Imbabura in the distance. Many people use Ilaló for training since it’s close by, accessible by public transport, and perfect for a quick outing before or after work if you live nearby.
Cerro La Luz – Puéllaro
Recommended level: Easy
Located on the Hidden Route north of Quito, Puéllaro is famous for its fruit trees and warm weather. Recently, Cerro La Luz has become popular as a family-friendly hike, great for families, couples, and groups of friends.
The area is a tourist spot with marked trails perfect for beginners, sculptures, scenic viewpoints, rest spots, and camping areas around Puéllaro. It’s open from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Entrance costs about $2 for adults and $1 for kids and seniors.
The hike isn’t hard technically; it just requires a willingness to walk and explore. You don’t need experience or strong fitness—just wear light clothes (since it’s usually warmer than downtown Quito), bring water, a hat, and be ready to take great sunset photos.
This is a great introduction to Quito’s hills and a perfect stop if you’re traveling the Hidden Route and want a unique viewpoint.
Cerro Catequilla – San Antonio de Pichincha
Recommended level: Easy
Cerro Catequilla is more than just a hill; it’s an important archaeological and astronomical site that helps us understand the pre-Inca cultures around Quito. Located in the San Antonio parish above the Pomasqui valley, its summit is about 2,638 meters high and sits exactly on the equator at latitude 0°0’0″. That’s why it’s called “the true halfway point of the world.” At the top, you’ll find a semicircular stone wall, platforms, and other structures thought to be ancient solar observatories used by the Quitu-Caranqui culture and later by the Incas. Today, it offers a wide viewpoint with 360° views of nearby valleys and hills. It’s popular with hikers, cyclists, and people looking for a special place for spiritual activities.
The hike to Cerro Catequilla is short and has a gentle slope, making it perfect for families or as an extra stop when visiting the Monument to the Middle of the World. To get there by public transport, take a bus from Quito heading to San Antonio de Pichincha. Look for buses that mention the Monument to the Middle of the World since many pass through that area. Once you arrive at the monument, you can easily find local taxis or ask for directions to Cerro Catequilla—it’s close by.
If you like cycling, there are several routes that lead to this site. A popular choice is starting from Quito’s city center and following Avenida Simón Bolívar until you reach Pomasqui valley. From there, you can head straight to Cerro Catequilla while enjoying beautiful scenery along the way.
Even though this route is easy, please remember to respect the site as it is an important archaeological heritage spot, not just another viewpoint.
If you want more ways to enjoy nature and great views near Quito, try exploring some nearby hills. These hiking routes are perfect for those looking for adventure and a break from city life. Hills like Puntas El Quinche, Coturco Yaruquí, Ilaló El Tingo, La Luz Puéllaro, and Catequilla San Antonio de Pichincha offer walks ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. Besides getting good exercise outdoors, you’ll enjoy stunning views of valleys and mountains around you. Don’t forget to bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes so you can fully enjoy your time in nature.
