
Quitsato Sundial
Stand on the true equator at the Quitsato Sundial, a massive, functional timekeeper with stunning volcano views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Quitsato Sundial
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Stand on the true equator at the Quitsato Sundial, a massive, functional timekeeper with stunning volcano views.
"This is the actual equator, unlike other popular spots. Verified by GPS!"

🎯 True Equator Spot
This is the actual equator, unlike other popular spots. Verified by GPS!
⏰ Guided Tours are Great
English-speaking guides offer comprehensive and interesting facts. Highly recommended!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Quitsato Sundial
Stand on the true equator line and witness a massive, functional sundial that accurately tells time.

Agave Garden
Explore an impressive collection of agave plants, a unique botanical display on the equator.

Cayambe Volcano Views
Enjoy breathtaking views of the snow-capped Cayambe volcano from this unique location.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Authentic Equator Experience
Getting There: Plan Your Journey
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 True Equator Spot
This is the actual equator, unlike other popular spots. Verified by GPS!
⏰ Guided Tours are Great
English-speaking guides offer comprehensive and interesting facts. Highly recommended!
🚗 Public Transport Effort
Buses are crowded and the journey is long. Start early if using public transport.
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
Great spot for unique photos on the equator line. Bring your phone compass!
3 Days in Quito in August: what goes on a must-see itinerary?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 True Equator Spot
This is the actual equator, unlike other popular spots. Verified by GPS!
⏰ Guided Tours are Great
English-speaking guides offer comprehensive and interesting facts. Highly recommended!
🚗 Public Transport Effort
Buses are crowded and the journey is long. Start early if using public transport.
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
Great spot for unique photos on the equator line. Bring your phone compass!
🌿 Botanical Beauty
Don't miss the impressive agave garden. A lovely place to wander.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Quitsato Sundial for its authenticity as the true equator and its educational value, often preferring it over more commercialized alternatives. The knowledgeable guides and the unique agave garden are frequently highlighted as major positives, though the journey via public transport can be challenging.
"Museum located on the equator line with some great explanations (including diagrams) of the related astronomical phenomena. Fun to play around with your phones compass too. There is also an agave garden with an impressive collection. Well worth a short stop whilst pasig through. Far less crowded and gimmicky than similar equatorial museums"
Mert Korkusuz
"Great spot that’s well worth the visit. As opposed to the commonly visited “middle of the world city” in northern Quito, THIS one is actually the legitimate equator (the other one is close, but off by about 70 meters).
We had an English speaking guide who explained everything."
Luke Gram
"We had a guided tour and it was excellent. We learnt quite a lot and we loved all the interesting facts given by Cristobal. Everybody was very friendly and we enjoyed wondering around the botanical garden and taking many pictures of the Equator Line. We bought the complete pack and it is amazing. We highly recommend visiting this place."
French tuition Virginie Pernot
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Getting to Quitsato Sundial via public transport involves taking a bus towards Cayambe and then potentially another local bus or taxi. It can be a long journey, with crowded buses being a common experience. Many visitors opt for a taxi or a guided tour for a more direct and comfortable trip.
Yes, driving to Quitsato Sundial is generally easier than public transport. Following GPS directions is recommended. Parking is available on-site.
For a time-efficient visit, consider hiring a taxi or booking a tour that includes Quitsato Sundial. This bypasses the complexities and potential delays of public transportation.
There isn't direct public transport between the two equator sites. You would likely need to return to Quito and then arrange separate transport to Quitsato, or hire a private driver for a combined tour.
Travel time can vary significantly. By public bus, it can take several hours with transfers. By taxi or private car, it's typically around 1.5 to 2 hours from Quito, depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Quitsato Sundial is an NGO and charges a modest entrance fee, typically around $5 USD. This fee contributes to the upkeep and educational programs.
Advance booking is generally not required for Quitsato Sundial. You can purchase tickets upon arrival.
Opening hours can vary, but it's typically open during daylight hours. It's advisable to check their official website or social media for the most current information before your visit.
Most visitors find the entrance fee well worth it for the educational experience, the unique equatorial location, and the well-maintained grounds, including the agave garden.
Yes, sometimes complete packages are offered that might include a guided tour and access to all areas. Inquire upon arrival for available options.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The primary attraction is the massive, functional sundial situated precisely on the Earth's equatorial line. It's a fascinating way to understand ancient timekeeping and celestial mechanics.
Yes, Quitsato Sundial is considered the legitimate equator, verified by GPS, making it an accurate representation of the equatorial line, unlike some other tourist sites.
Absolutely! Quitsato Sundial is a fantastic spot for photography, especially with the unique equatorial line and the backdrop of Cayambe volcano.
Beyond the sundial, you can explore an impressive agave garden and enjoy scenic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Cayambe volcano.
Yes, basic facilities are usually available on-site for visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Weekday mornings offer fewer crowds for unobstructed shots. Sunny afternoons provide good lighting for the sundial and the agave garden. The views of Cayambe volcano are often clearest in the morning.
You can capture unique photos standing on the equator line, interacting with the sundial, showcasing the diverse agave collection, and framing the majestic Cayambe volcano.
The center of the sundial, the marked equator line, and various points within the agave garden offer excellent photographic opportunities. The viewpoint with Cayambe volcano in the background is also a must.
Yes, playing with your phone's compass on the equator line can lead to fun and interesting photo ideas.
Include a person in the frame to show the immense size of the sundial. Experiment with different angles to emphasize its grandeur.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the sundial itself, the agave garden provides a safe and interesting space for kids to explore. The open grounds allow for some freedom to roam after the main tour. While public transport can be challenging with children, a taxi or private tour makes the journey much more manageable and enjoyable for the whole family.
🌍 Budget Travelers
🔭 Science & History Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Science of the Sundial
This scientific marvel is more than just a clock; it's an educational tool. Guides at Quitsato often explain the astronomical phenomena related to the equator, such as the unique experience of having equal daylight and darkness year-round, and how the sun appears to move directly overhead at noon during the equinoxes. It's a tangible way to connect with ancient methods of understanding the cosmos and the Earth's place within it.
Why Quitsato is the 'Real' Equator
This distinction is important for those seeking an authentic experience. The Quitsato site emphasizes its scientific accuracy, offering a more genuine encounter with the Earth's circumference. The NGO status of Quitsato also suggests a focus on education and preservation rather than pure commercial tourism, which many visitors appreciate.
Navigating to Quitsato: A Traveler's Perspective
While Google Maps directions are generally reliable for public transport, be prepared for a potentially packed experience. For those who prefer comfort and efficiency, taxis or pre-arranged tours are a popular alternative. These options, while more expensive, significantly reduce travel time and stress, allowing visitors to focus on enjoying the unique equatorial experience.

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