Mitad del Mundo Guide
Stand with a Foot in Each Hemisphere: The Equator Experience Guide
Welcome to Mitad del Mundo, or "Middle of the World," a must-see attraction just north of Quito, Ecuador. This iconic site marks the location of the equator, offering visitors the unique opportunity to stand with one foot in the Northern Hemisphere and the other in the Southern Hemisphere. More than just a geographical landmark, Mitad del Mundo is a vibrant complex filled with monuments, museums, and cultural exhibits celebrating Ecuador's rich heritage and scientific achievements. The original monument was built in 1936 based on calculations by a French expedition in the 18th century. However, modern GPS technology has revealed that the actual equator lies a few hundred meters north of the marked line. Despite this discrepancy, the site remains a powerful symbol of Ecuador's place on the world map and a testament to the enduring human fascination with geographical boundaries. The complex also houses the Ethnographic Museum, which showcases Ecuador's diverse indigenous cultures, and the Intiñan Museum, which offers interactive exhibits demonstrating purported equatorial phenomena. At Mitad del Mundo, you can take the quintessential photo straddling the equatorial line, visit the Ethnographic Museum to learn about Ecuador's diverse cultures, and participate in interactive science experiments at the Intiñan Museum (though be aware of their scientific validity). Explore the surrounding artisan shops for souvenirs, and enjoy traditional Ecuadorian cuisine at one of the many restaurants. Don't miss the opportunity to climb to the top of the main monument for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Ecuadorian cuisine is diverse, but try locro (a hearty potato soup), empanadas, or fritada (fried pork).
Transportation
The most common way to reach Mitad del Mundo from Quito is by bus. Take a bus from the Ofelia bus terminal in northern Quito. Several bus companies operate routes to Mitad del Mundo; look for buses marked 'Mitad del Mundo' or 'Calacalí.' The journey takes approximately one hour, depending on traffic. You can also hire a taxi or Uber, which will be more expensive but faster.
Opening Hours
09:00 - 17:00
Ticket Price
$5