Quitsato Solar Clock: Stand on the Equator

4.6 (620)

Explore the Quitsato Solar Clock near Cayambe, Ecuador, and stand on the equator while discovering ancient astronomical knowledge.

Home
Ecuador
Southwest Coast
Quitsato Solar Clock

The Quitsato Solar Clock, located near Cayambe, Ecuador, is a monument and outdoor museum demonstrating the astronomical importance of the equator and ancient Andean civilizations' understanding of the cosmos. Visitors can explore the large sundial, learn about solar timekeeping, and enjoy views of the surrounding landscape.

A brief summary to Quitsato Solar Clock

Carr. Panamericana, Norte, EC
Click to display

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

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Quitsato Solar Clock.

Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Bring your camera for breathtaking views of the Andean landscape.
Consider a guided tour for in-depth knowledge of the site's astronomical significance.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain.
Check the weather forecast, as conditions can change rapidly.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Cochasqui Archaeological Park

Unveiling the Mysteries of Cochasqui Archaeological Park

Via al Cerró cusín.

Discover the Historic Charm of Via al Cerró Cusín

LES CHEVAUX DE LA COLLINE NOIRE

The Majestic Horses of La Chimba

Getting There

Public Transport

From Quito, take a bus from the Ofelia Station to Cayambe. Cooperativa Flor Del Valle operates buses every 10-15 minutes. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Ask the driver to drop you off at La Bola de Guachalá, where the Solar Clock is located. From there, it's a short walk to the site. The bus fare is approximately $3.
Car

From Quito, drive north on the Pan-American Highway (Carr. Panamericana/E35). The Quitsato Solar Clock is located directly off the highway, approximately 47 km north of Quito. Look for signs indicating the Quitsato Solar Clock. Parking is available at the site. Driving time is approximately 45-60 minutes. There is no fee for parking.

Discover more about Quitsato Solar Clock

The Quitsato Solar Clock, built in 2006 and inaugurated in 2007, is a cultural and tourist site located 47 km north of Quito, near Cayambe, Ecuador. This independent, non-profit project spans 2,300 square meters and aims to share the astronomical knowledge of pre-Hispanic cultures.The site features a 54-meter diameter circular platform adorned with a mosaic of light and dark pebbles, forming an eight-pointed star that marks solstices and equinoxes. A 10-meter high cylindrical orange tube stands at the center, acting as a gnomon to project shadows indicating the hours and months. The color variations in the stones demonstrate albedo and its significance in astronomical study.Visitors can learn about the movements of the sun, the seasons, and the history of the calendar. The monument also offers views of archaeological sites and the Cayambe Volcano, the only place where the equator is crossed by snow. Knowledgeable guides offer detailed explanations, and the site includes an impressive agave garden.