Mitad del Mundo

Just outside of Quito is where the measurements were first made that proved that the shape of the Earth is in fact an oblate spheroid. Commemorating this is a large monument that straddles the equator called Mitad del Mundo or middle of the world. The entrance for the park is $5 (included entrance to small museums - Dec 2019). Visit here if you're interested in learning some alternative facts and seeing some kitsch. Because it's not on the equator itself, and it's not a serious cultural or educational experience. No, the water doesn't really go down the plughole the opposite way in the hemispheres, and if you want to take it seriously you won't enjoy your time here. For some of the attractions like the planetarium, the price is $7.50. You can also go to the Intiñan Solar Museum which is right next to the monument, on the other side of the north fence. The museum is actually on the equator. For $4 you can have a tour of this little museum.

• museum
• outdoors

Getting there

take a bus from Occidental or Av. America for $0.40 that has "Mitad del Mundo" clearly written large on the front. You can also take the Metrobus northbound to its last stop:, and then take a bus from there to the monument ($0.25 + $0.15); it takes at least 1 hour to get there by public transport. You can also go with a tour ($15) or hire a taxi driver by the hour; the hourly rate should be in the $12 or less range