We use cookies on our website in order to improve your experience. By using our website you consent to our use of cookies.

We have been voted
Online Travel Agency Of The Year
by the two largest travel industry publications.
This has been 5 times in the last 20 years.
To see our 25+ travel awards, visit
https://www.holidaysplease.co.uk/awards/

El Panecillo

Translated as “the little bread load”, El Panecillo is a steep hill located between southern and central Quito and is an epic landmark in Ecuador. Let us take you on one of Ecuador’s must see’s on your holiday, for unsurpassable views of Quito.

Capture the sights of old Quito from El Panecillo, take a cab up to the top and admire the 360 views. Quito is the capital of Ecuador and is a fascinating destination for holidaymakers, with its interesting history and culture. It has been well preserved and visitors can soak in the warm atmosphere and learn all about the heritage and see the colonial architecture.

Set at the top of this hilltop is the “Virgin of Quito” or to locals known as La Virgen de Quito. It is a monumental statue constructed over a 20 year period, featuring angelic wings, a crown of stars and a chained dragon looking over the city. Inspired by Quito’s Madonna, the Virgin Mary herself can be seen in the Church of St. Francisco.

Finished in 1976, the aluminium statue stands at 134.5 feet tall with an elevation of 3,016 metres above sea level. Comprising of 7,000 pieces of aluminium, the Virgin of Quito is the biggest of its kind in the world! Visitors can enter the statue for impressive views of the city, which has three floors inside. At the top of El Pancecillo, you can sample a selection of foods and buy a souvenir or two from the number of craft booths.

Visit on a clear morning and you’ll be able to see some of Ecuador’s Cotopaxi volcano in the backdrop of Quito. A great time to visit El Panecillo is in July, when the procession for Carmen Alto takes place for celebrations.

For more information about El Panecillo and a holiday to Ecuador fill out an enquiry form and we’ll be in touch to help.

El Panecillo

Good News! There are 79 suppliers who can supply prices.

We can get prices from tour operators without giving them your details. and will provide expert, impartial advice quickly. Just enter your details below...

100% Privacy Guaranteed

We respond in minutes and hours rather than days and weeks.

Benefits of using Holidaysplease
  • Get options without giving your details to lots of companies
  • Impartial, truly expert advice
  • Trust Pilot Top 3 for Customer Service
  • UK Online Travel Agency Of the Year 2023/24
  • 100% Privacy Guaranteed