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Quitsato Solar Clock: Stand on the Equator
Explore the Quitsato Solar Clock, a monument on the Equator showcasing ancient astronomical knowledge and offering stunning Andean views.
The Quitsato Solar Clock is a monument and cultural site precisely on the Equator, north of Quito, Ecuador. It showcases the astronomical knowledge of pre-Hispanic cultures with a large sundial and offers panoramic views of the Andes.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Quitsato Solar Clock
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Carr. Panamericana, Norte, EC
Monday
8:30 am-5:30 pm
Tuesday
8:30 am-5:30 pm
Wednesday
8:30 am-5:30 pm
Thursday
8:30 am-5:30 pm
Friday
8:30 am-5:30 pm
Saturday
8:30 am-5:30 pm
Sunday
8:30 am-5:30 pm
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Getting There
Public Transport
From Quito, take a bus from Ofelia Station towards Cayambe. Buses depart frequently, approximately every 10-15 minutes. Ask the driver to drop you off at La Bola de Guachalá, near the Solar Clock. From there, the Quitsato Solar Clock is a short walk away. The bus fare typically ranges from $3 USD.
Car
From Quito, take the Pan-American Highway (Carr. Panamericana/E35) north towards Cayambe. The Quitsato Solar Clock is located directly off the highway. Look for signs indicating 'Quitsato Solar Clock'. Parking is available at the site. Note that driving time from Quito is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Taxi
Consider taking a taxi or rideshare service directly to Quitsato Solar Clock. Provide the driver with the address: Carr. Panamericana, Norte. The cost from nearby cities can range from $10 to $30 USD. From Quito, expect to pay around $30-40 USD.
Local tips
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Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
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Bring your camera for the breathtaking views and unique photo opportunities on the Equator.
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Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the historical and scientific significance of the solar clock.
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Check the weather forecast, as conditions in this region can change quickly.
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Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the grounds.
Discover more about Quitsato Solar Clock
The Quitsato Solar Clock, located 47 km north of Quito, Ecuador, marks the exact spot of the Equator. Inaugurated in 2007 as a non-profit project, this cultural site aims to share the astronomical knowledge of pre-Hispanic cultures. The site covers 2,300 m² and features a large sundial.The sundial consists of a 54-meter diameter circular platform adorned with a mosaic of light and dark pebbles. This mosaic forms an eight-pointed star, indicating solstices and equinoxes, with lines pointing to the cardinal directions. A 10-meter high orange pole stands at the center, serving as a gnomon that casts shadows to mark the hours and months. The color differences in the stones illustrate albedo, the reflectivity of a surface, used in astronomical study.Visitors can explore exhibits detailing timekeeping history and solar navigation importance. Guided tours provide insights into the cultural and scientific significance of the clock. The site offers panoramic views, including the Cayambe volcano, the only place where the Equator intersects with snow. Educational workshops are available, making it suitable for families and school groups. The Quitsato Solar Clock is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
A brief summary to Quitsato Solar Clock
Use Quitsato Solar Clock as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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