Guapulo

For a long time this neighborhood is considered historic in Quito and that's where the expedition of the Spanish conquerors Gonzalo Pizarro and Francisco de Orellana in search of "The Country of Cinnamon. They did not find the above mentioned place but they stumbled upon the Amazon River, and since then it is said that they were the ones who discovered it. Ironically, this river was "discovered" a long time ago by the natives of the Amazon, and even visited several times by Quitus, original inhabitants of Quito. For this reason the main streets of this neighborhood have names that make reference to this fact: De los Conquistadores street, and El camino de Orellana, the latter being the supposed route where the expedition began its journey.

Guápulo tourism

Guápulo is the bohemian district of Quito, it is like a small town, isolated from the big city. This because its location lends itself since it is located right on the slopes of the ravine to the Machángara River, therefore it turns its back on the city with its noise, and gives its front to the sunny view of the valley in the mornings, and to its ghostly mist at night, giving the touch of enchanted city to those hours.

The church of this neighborhood, of colonial architecture, is well known among the Quiteños, especially for the image of the Virgin of the Angels to which miracles have been attributed since the time the church was built. There is also the viewpoint of Guápulo, a place with a spectacular view where you can admire, weather permitting, some elevations of the inter-Andean alley, in addition there are usually artistic exhibitions and sale of handicrafts.

One of the attractions of Guápulo are the Camino de Orellana Coffee places. These coffee bars are the favorite places for poets, writers, musicians and artists. They are usually open only at night and have a very bohemian atmosphere, especially because they have a view of the valley that at night is beautiful and can inspire many emotions to anyone. The bars are Ananké, specialized in pizzas, La Lagartera, Palo Santo and the famous Café Guápulo. In these they serve not only drinks but also one or another gastronomic specialty.

There is also a small and cozy hotel made of adobe called La Casa de Guápulo, which offers bed & breakfast service. It is located at Calle Lasso 257 and El Calvario.

In addition, in this neighborhood are located the embassies of Spain and British which has favored that in this neighborhood are established villages of the Spanish and British upper class.

The main attraction of Guapulo, in addition to its bohemian bars, are its parties. On September 7 all Guapuleños celebrate their neighbourhood with village bands, parades, costumes, drinks and dancing. It is very similar to the typical village festivals, very traditional in the rural areas of Ecuador, away from the big cities. So if you want to experience a popular festival of this nature without leaving Quito, the festivities of Guápulo are the option. Get to know the Guápulo Park, a recreational area in contact with nature.