Parque Arqueológico Rumipamba, Quito Travel Guide

4.6 (1951)

Uncover Quito's ancient past at Rumipamba Archaeological Park, where history and nature intertwine for an unforgettable experience.

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Parque Arqueológico Rumipamba

Explore the ancient civilizations that once thrived in Quito at Parque Arqueológico Rumipamba, an open-air museum with ruins dating back to 1500 BCE. Wander through the remnants of the Quitu culture and earlier settlements, set amidst a serene ecological park.

A brief summary to Parque Arqueológico Rumipamba

Nuño de Valderrama s/n, Quito, Rumipamba, 170147, EC
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Wednesday 6 am-4 pm
Thursday 6 am-4 pm
Friday 6 am-4 pm
Saturday 6 am-4 pm
Sunday 6 am-4 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Parque Arqueológico Rumipamba.

Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes for exploring the gravel-lined trails.
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to spot local bird species.
Check for guided tours to gain a deeper understanding of the site's history and archaeological significance.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of Quito and the surrounding landscape.
Stay hydrated, especially on warm days, as facilities on-site are limited.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Quito's city center, take the Metrobus along Avenida America. Get off at the America stop, a 14-minute walk from the park. Buses run frequently, and the fare is $0.25.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Quito. A taxi from the city center to Parque Arqueológico Rumipamba typically costs $6 - $8 and takes about 8 minutes. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
Car

If driving from central Quito, follow Avenida 10 de Agosto and turn onto Calle Nuño de Valderrama. Parking is available near the park entrance for a small fee, around $1-2.

Discover more about Parque Arqueológico Rumipamba

Parque Arqueológico Rumipamba, nestled in the heart of Quito, offers a captivating journey into the region's pre-Columbian past. This archaeological site spans 32 hectares, with a portion dedicated to showcasing the remnants of ancient civilizations that called this area home. The name 'Rumipamba' itself, derived from the Quechua words for 'stone plain,' aptly describes the park's rugged landscape.Archaeological excavations have revealed evidence of continuous occupation from 1500 BCE to 1500 CE, encompassing the Late Formative, Regional Development, and Integration periods. Discoveries include ancient tools, deep tombs, tripod-footed pottery, and the remains of huts constructed from mud and straw. These findings shed light on the ingenuity and cultural practices of the early inhabitants, including the Quitu people. The park also features remnants of 'culuncos,' trails used by the Yumbo society for transporting goods between the highlands and the coast.Visitors can explore covered excavations, reconstructed dwellings, and an on-site museum displaying artifacts. Informative plaques provide insights into the history and significance of the site. The park's ecological aspect adds to its allure, with native vegetation providing habitat for various bird species. The park also offers panoramic views of Quito.