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Middle of the World City: Stand on the Equator

Experience the thrill of standing on the Equator at Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, a vibrant cultural and historical landmark just north of Quito, Ecuador.

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Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, or Middle of the World City, is a monument and park complex marking the approximate location of the Equator. Located just north of Quito, Ecuador, it offers visitors the chance to stand in both hemispheres simultaneously and explore Ecuadorian culture. While modern GPS has determined the true equator lies slightly north, the site remains a popular and historically significant attraction.

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Local tips

  • Visit on a weekend to enjoy cultural events and musical performances in the Central Plaza.
  • Bring your passport to get it stamped with a special 'Middle of the World' stamp at one of the shops.
  • Explore beyond the main monument; the complex offers museums, a planetarium, and local craft shops.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the extensive grounds and climbing the monument.
  • Consider visiting in the morning to avoid crowds, as tour groups often arrive after lunch.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Quito, take the Metrobus-Q system towards the north to the Ofelia station. At Ofelia, transfer to a bus labeled 'Mitad del Mundo'. These buses typically leave from the first platform and drop you off near the entrance to the complex. The bus fare from Ofelia to Mitad del Mundo is approximately $0.50 - $1 USD.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Quito. A taxi or Uber ride from Quito's city center to Mitad del Mundo typically costs between $10 and $20 USD, depending on the location and traffic. Negotiate the fare in advance or ensure the driver uses the meter.

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Discover more about Middle of the World City

The Middle of the World City (Ciudad Mitad del Mundo) is a celebrated Ecuadorian landmark located approximately 26 kilometers north of Quito. This site commemorates the efforts of the 18th-century French-Spanish Geodesic Mission, which sought to precisely measure the Earth's shape and determine the location of the equator. The main attraction is the 30-meter-tall Monument to the Equator, constructed between 1979 and 1982. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. A yellow line painted on the ground signifies the approximate equatorial line, offering the classic photo opportunity of standing with one foot in each hemisphere. Inside the monument, the Ethnographic Museum Middle of the Earth showcases Ecuador's diverse indigenous cultures, featuring artifacts, clothing, and exhibits detailing their traditions and lifestyles. The complex also includes a planetarium, a miniature model of Quito, and various shops and restaurants offering local cuisine and souvenirs. Cultural events and musical performances are frequently held in the Central Plaza, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. While modern GPS technology has revealed that the actual equator lies about 240 meters north of the marked line , the Middle of the World City remains a significant symbol of Ecuador's identity and a testament to the country's rich history and scientific contributions. Nearby, the Intiñan Solar Museum offers additional interactive exhibits and demonstrations related to the equator.

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