Background

Middle of the World City: Stand on the Equator

Experience the thrill of straddling the world's hemispheres at this iconic equatorial monument and cultural center near Quito, Ecuador.

4.7

Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, or Middle of the World City, is a monument and park complex marking the Equator near Quito, Ecuador. It's a popular destination where visitors can stand with a foot in each hemisphere and explore Ecuadorian culture.

A brief summary to Middle of the World City

Local tips

  • Bring sunscreen and a hat, as the equatorial sun can be intense, even on cloudy days.
  • Visit on a weekend for cultural events and performances.
  • Explore both the main monument and the Intiñan Site Museum to experience both the historical and the more accurate equatorial locations.
  • Sample traditional Ecuadorian dishes like grilled guinea pig, fritada, or potato locro at the complex's restaurants.
  • Get your passport stamped at the Equator Museum as a unique souvenir.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Quito, take the Metrobus-Q system towards the north to Ofelia station. Transfer to a bus labeled "Mitad del Mundo" or "San Antonio de Pichincha". The bus will drop you off within walking distance of the complex. The first ticket costs $0.25 and the second one $0.15.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber or Cabify are readily available in Quito. A ride from Quito to Mitad del Mundo typically costs between $8 and $20 and takes approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

  • Driving

    If driving, head north on Avenida Mariscal Sucre (also known as Avenida Occidental). Then, take Avenida Manuel Córdova Galarza Km 13.5 until you arrive at the Middle of the World. Parking is available at the complex.

Unlock the Best of Middle of the World City

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Middle of the World City

Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, located just north of Quito, is a tribute to the 18th-century French Geodesic Mission that pinpointed the equator's location. The site features a 30-meter tall monument topped with a metallic globe, symbolizing Earth. A yellow line marks the supposed equatorial line, drawing visitors eager to straddle both hemispheres for a photo. Inside the monument, a museum showcases Ecuador's diverse indigenous cultures and the historical significance of the equator. The surrounding complex, referred to as Middle of the World City, offers a variety of attractions, including shops, restaurants, and cultural exhibits. You can sample traditional Ecuadorian cuisine, purchase local crafts, and explore museums dedicated to beer and cocoa. Weekends often feature cultural events with music and dance. While the monument is a must-see, modern GPS technology has revealed that the true equator lies about 240 meters to the north. The Intiñan Site Museum marks the more accurate location and offers interactive demonstrations of equatorial phenomena. Despite the slight discrepancy, the Middle of the World City remains a celebrated symbol of Ecuador's unique geographical position and a fascinating blend of science, history, and culture.

Popular Experiences near Middle of the World City

Popular Hotels near Middle of the World City

Select Currency