Venue & Travel
Venue
Main venue: Universidad San Francisco de Quito - Campus Cumbayá Main conference room: Teatro Shakespeare, Paseo San Francisco
Hotels and Recommended Areas
We recommend staying in the Parroquia Iñaquito and Parroquia Cumbayá neighborhoods for convenient access to the conference venue and a comfortable experience in Quito.
Airport
The main airport is Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO).
We recommend using official airport taxis (yellow taxis). The cost from the airport to central Quito is approx $25-35 USD (daytime), $40-45 USD (nighttime).
Uber and Cabify are also good options.
About Quito
Overview
Quito, the capital of Ecuador, sits at 2,850 meters (9,350 feet) above sea level in the Andes Mountains. The city’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring stunning colonial architecture, baroque churches, and vibrant plazas. With its spring-like climate year-round and proximity to both mountains and equator, Quito offers a unique experience for international visitors.
Language
Official Language: Spanish
English: Spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and upscale restaurants
While many people in the tourism industry speak English, we recommend learning basic Spanish phrases for smoother interactions in local restaurants, shops, and when using public transportation.
Safety
Quito is generally safe for tourists. However, we encourage you to take normal precautions:
- Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less crowded areas
- Use Uber or official taxis instead of unmarked street taxis
- Watch for pickpockets in busy plazas and markets
- Keep digital copies of important documents (passport, ID)
- Stick to well-lit, populated streets
- Don’t display expensive jewelry or electronics
- Use hotel safes for valuables
Emergency Numbers:
- Emergency (all services): 911
- Police: 101
- Fire: 102
- Ambulance: 131
Water
Tap water in Quito is treated and drinkable. However, if you have a sensitive stomach or are not accustomed to the local water, bottled water is recommended as a precaution.
Currency and Cost of Living
Ecuador uses the US dollar as its official currency.
Average Costs in Quito (2025):
| Item | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Business Lunch | $10-15 |
| Cup of Coffee | $2-4 |
| Filled Sandwich | $3-5 |
| Mineral Water | $0.50-1 |
| Taxi/Uber Ride (local) | $5-10 |
| Metro/Bus Ticket | $0.35 |
| Museum Entry | $5-10 |
| Restaurant Dinner | $15-30 |
Public Transportation
Quito has an affordable and efficient public transportation system, particularly effective for north-south travel through the city.
Transportation Card
Tarjeta de Transporte: Reloadable card for all public transport Cost: $5 initial purchase (includes first credit) Where to Buy: Metro stations, bus terminals, authorized vendors
Transportation Options
| Type | Route | Cost | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metro (Line 1) | Quitumbe (south) to El Labrador (north) | $0.35-0.80 | Every 5 minutes | Modern, safe, clean; opened in 2023 |
| Trolleybus (Trole) | North-south electric buses | $0.35 | Frequent | Dedicated lanes; crowded at peak hours |
| Ecovía | Bus rapid transit system | $0.35 | Frequent | Efficient for north-south travel |
| Regular Buses | Extensive city network | $0.35 | Varies | Pay with card or cash |
Getting to USFQ
From Historic Center: Take Metro or bus to northern Quito, then taxi/Uber to Cumbayá (Total: 45-60 minutes)
From Iñaquito Area: Direct taxi/Uber to USFQ (10-20 minutes)
From Cumbayá Hotels: Walking distance or short taxi ride (5-15 minutes)
Transportation Apps
- Moovit: Download for real-time route planning and bus schedules
- Uber/Cabify: Ride-hailing services
- Google Maps: Reliable for navigation and public transport directions
Safety Note: Avoid unmarked “pirate” buses. Use only official public transportation with proper identification.
Clothing
Quito’s high altitude creates a unique climate. Despite being near the equator, the city enjoys spring-like weather year-round.
Climate:
- Daytime: 15-22°C (59-72°F)
- Nighttime: 7-12°C (45-54°F)
- Rainfall: Frequent afternoon showers
- UV Exposure: Very strong due to high altitude
What to Pack:
- Layers: Lightweight fleece or sweater for cool mornings/evenings
- Waterproof jacket: Essential for afternoon rain
- Long-sleeve shirts and pants
- Comfortable walking shoes: For cobblestone streets
- Hat and sunglasses: UV protection is crucial
- High SPF sunscreen: 30+ recommended
- Altitude medication: Optional (acetazolamide) if prone to altitude sickness
Note for Church Visits: Dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites (cover shoulders and knees).
Quito Sights
Quito offers an incredible array of attractions, from colonial architecture to modern cable cars with Andean views.
Historic Center (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Plaza de la Independencia
The central square of Quito, surrounded by the Presidential Palace, Metropolitan Cathedral, and historic buildings. Perfect for people-watching and photography.
La Compañía de Jesús Church
A Baroque masterpiece with an ornate gold-leaf interior. Considered one of the most beautiful churches in South America.
Basílica del Voto Nacional
Gothic-style basilica with unique Ecuadorian animals carved on the façade. Climb the towers for breathtaking 360° views of Quito.
La Ronda Street
A charming colonial cobblestone street filled with artisan shops, traditional cafes, and live music venues. Especially vibrant in the evenings.
Major Attractions
TeleferiQo 🚡
The world’s second-highest aerial lift, ascending to 4,100 meters (13,450 feet) on Pichincha Volcano. Offers spectacular panoramic views of Quito and the Andes. Budget approximately $8-10 for the cable car ride.
El Panecillo 🗿
A hilltop featuring a massive aluminum statue of the Virgin Mary with wings. Provides 360° views of the city. Access via taxi is recommended for safety.
Mitad del Mundo 🌍
The “Middle of the World” monument marking the equator line, located about 45 minutes from Quito. Visit the nearby Museo Intiñan for interactive equator demonstrations.
Casa del Alabado Museum
An excellent museum showcasing pre-Columbian artifacts and ancient Ecuadorian cultures. Perfect for history enthusiasts.
Other Notable Sites
- Monasteries: San Diego, Santo Domingo
- La Floresta: Trendy neighborhood with street art, cafes, and nightlife
- Free Walking Tours: Available daily in the historic center (tip $5-10 appreciated)
Learn More:
Visit Quito Tourism Official Website for the latest information on attractions, events, and tours.
Additional Resources
Conference Contact:
For specific questions about the venue or travel arrangements, please contact the SALA ‘26 organizing committee through our contact page.
USFQ Campus Map:
Available at www.usfq.edu.ec/es/mapa-de-la-universidad
Quito Tourism:
www.quito.com.ec
We look forward to welcoming you to Quito for SALA ‘26! If you have any questions or need assistance with your travel arrangements, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our organizing team.