Is Quito Ecuador Safe? Best Neighborhoods & Hotels To Stay

Planning a trip to Ecuador’s capital? As you consider your options before traveling, you may wonder: is Quito, Ecuador, safe to visit? 

Travel to Quito is now as safe as any other good tourist spot in the world. 

In the past 5 years, the crime ratio in the city has reduced, and traveling during the daytime is quite safe. However, you must be alert at night as mugging and pickpocketing are the main issues you’ll be dealing with in Ecuador. 

Is Quito, Ecaudor Safe?

Some areas, such as La Mariscal and Guayaquil, should be avoided at night. In these places, robbers use various distracting techniques such as requesting assistance, pushing or shoving and staged fights. If you see one of these acts on the road, please do not fall for it and move forward without engaging. 

The information above is just the start. To prepare for your trip to Ecuador’s capital city, here is an extensive list of travel safety tips for you to remember. We included the safest neighborhoods, recommended hotels and hostels, and areas to avoid when you travel to Quito.

10 Safest Neighborhoods in Quito, Ecuador

1. Historic Center Quito

The historic center is the city’s most popular area. One of the main reasons why people prefer staying in the old town or historic center is its connections with the other areas of Quito. The place is filled with tourists and locals, so safety is not an issue. 

There are many amazing sights and things to do in this part of Quito, such as cathedrals, traditional churches, palaces, and museums. If you are looking for nightlife, make sure not to travel alone at night on streets without crowds.

Some of the best hotels and hostels at the historic center:

• Hotel David
• Friends Hotel & Rooftop
• Hotel Boutique Portal de Cantuña

2. La Carolina

La Carolina is a safe place to stay with your family. You will find a park where locals love to exercise and walk. Restaurants, pubs, and clubs serve amazing food and entertainment. 

La Carolina is second on the list of safest places to visit after the historic center. 

Here are some hotels where you can stay on your visit:

• Wyndham Garden Quito
• Suite de Lujo
• Edificio Samsara

3. La Floresta

La Floresta is an area in Quito filled with colorful murals and beautiful windflowers. The whole place is completely safe to visit and stay in. 

The town square with the lovely fountain is a popular place that makes it special. 

The best accommodation options in this area include: 

• Casa Aliso Hotel Boutique
• Swissôtel Quito
• Hotel Stubel Suites & Café 

4. Bellavista

Bellavista is the part of Quito which is considered a residential area. The location and shopping options nearby make it an ideal place to spend a few days in Quito. It does not have many accommodations like the historic center, but the area is pretty safe to stay in. 

We highly recommend staying at the hotel mentioned below.

• Hotel Bellavista Quito

5. La Ronda

La Ronda is a place located within the historic center. The place is so special that it deserves to be mentioned separately. The area is highly recommended for couples looking for a romantic environment. 

The street is lined with amazing art galleries, restaurants, and museums. You will also experience lanterns on the streets, enhancing the overall beauty. 

Some great options to stay:

• Casa Alquimia
• Apartment 32 Joan of Arc

6. Near the Airport

Quito has an international airport, Sucre, located near the valley of Tababela. The area has some great accommodation options and safety. The capital’s old town is only 12 miles (20 km) away, connected by three roads without heavy traffic. 

There are 3 hotels in this area rated more than 8 out of 10 online by travelers:

• Wyndham Quito Airport
• Hostal Mariscal Sucre
• Hostal Alpachaca

7. Gonzalez Suarez

Gonzalez Suarez is located near La Floresta on the eastern side of Quito’s central valley. The place has some of the most amazing views, so check if your hotel can get you a room with a view. 

Gonzalez Suarez is more reserved and quieter than other parts of town, making it secure. 

This area has many restaurants and cafes so you won’t be far from everything. Some accommodation options with amazing views are: 

• Suites Hotel Gonzalez
• Hotel Quito

8. Guanguiltagua Street

Guanguiltagua Street, another place with great views of Northern Quito, is quite safe to stay in. The place is located north of Gonzales Suarez near the metropolitan park. The activities in the park alone are a great reason to stay in this area. 

The main street also has some hip bars and restaurants. However, the main highlight is the sunrise view in the morning. 

Here are some places you’d want to consider staying at:

• St. Gallen Haus
• Bed and Breakfast La Uvilla 

9. Cumbaya

Cumbaya is only a 20-minute drive away from Quito. The place is covered by the mountains that surround the whole area. The altitude is slightly lower than the capital’s center, so the temperatures here are slightly warmer. 

The area is safe, and the activities nearby are plenty. Head 7.46 miles (12 km) east and get the most scenic hike, The Chaquinan trail. 

Accommodation options include:

• Casa Magnolia
• Casa Del Aguacate
• Hotel Sumaq Kay

10. Guapulo 

Guapulo is a small colonial town near Gonzales Suarez. The place has some old vibes, but staying there is quite safe. There are some good restaurants on the main streets. 

Available accommodation options are:

• Olympus Apartments
• Casa Aliso Hotel Boutique

For more accommodation options, you may click on the map.

Areas to Avoid in Quito, Ecuador

Pichincha Volcano 

While the area where Pichincha Volcano is located is a fun place, it is also home to many muggers and pickpockets. The government has taken various measures to reduce crime in this area, making it safe during the day.

Weather is also a major concern that restricts tourists. The best way to reduce the effect of altitude sickness and harsh weather is to hike with a group. The area is quite high and above sea level, so make sure you are up to the trek.

La Mariscal

La Mariscal is the modern part of Quito city. The nightlife is second to none, with exciting bars and nightclubs, but all that comes with a high risk of scams and robberies. In this place, you aren’t even safe at transport terminals, which are the most targeted areas by pickpockets and thieves. 

The best way to avoid these criminals is by staying close to the police. They are usually dressed in gray uniforms and neon yellow vests.

Night Time Safety in Quito, Ecuador

Quito is the most dangerous at midnight. If you want to enjoy the nightlife, make sure that you take these precautions and keep these important safety tips in mind to avoid getting into trouble.

• Pay attention to your surroundings. Do not leave your drink unattended, and do not accept a drink from a stranger, even if you have formed a good friendship with him during your visit to Quito.
• Always use private or public transportation at night instead of walking back home.
• Do not keep your valuable items and important documents with you when visiting bars and nightclubs. 
• Do not visit ATMs at night, as most thieves are waiting outside. 

Tips to Stay Safe in Quito, Ecuador

To have a safe trip to Quito, here are some travel tips that you can follow: 

• Make sure that your travel insurance covers the cost of your luggage, baggage, and other expensive items.
• As a precaution, if you are walking in crowded areas, keep your items in a bag or purse and hold them tight in front of you.
• If you are traveling alone, use private transportation services such as Uber, as there is a possibility of getting robbed in taxis during nighttime.
• Please keep your valuables, travel documents, and other important belongings in the safe provided to you by your hotel before leaving your room.
• As a tourist, you must keep a copy of your passport with you all the time, as required by the law of Ecuador.
• Additionally, consider protecting yourself with travel insurance such as SafetyWing, which can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen incidents during your stay. Use the widget below to snag the perfect policy for your needs and travel with peace of mind knowing you’ve got your back covered, no matter what adventures come your way!

Frequently Asked Questions – Is Quito Ecuador Safe?

Is There a Lot of Crime in Ecuador?

The crime rate in some areas is very high compared to others, contributing to the overall crime rate in the country. Some common crimes are scams, pickpocketing, and robberies. 

On the other hand, some crimes, such as drug trafficking and violent attacks, are in a few poor regions and rural areas. 

Is Quito Safe for Tourists?

Quito is safe if you restrict yourself from traveling to certain areas of the country. 

Is it Safe to Walk Around Quito at Night?

Walking alone at night in Quito is certainly unsafe. The country is looming with criminals looking for an opportunity to take all your luxuries away from you.

Conclusion – Is Quito Ecuador Safe?

Quito is generally a safe place for travel. 

As with other destinations in other parts of the world, preparation, precautions, and alertness can make your Quito journey a safe visit. Personal safety when traveling abroad is always a priority regardless of where you go, but always make sure that you take into consideration all the details of the place you will visit before your trip. 

If you want to travel with less worry, plan your itinerary with this travel guide we prepared. This can save you more time and help you save money too. 

Don’t miss out on the sights, sounds, tastes, and memories that you will only experience in this wonderful city. Make Quito, Ecuador, your next travel adventure. Safe travels!

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