Attractions and Places To See in Nayon - Top 17
Best attractions and places to see in Nayon include a blend of natural beauty, local culture, and adventure activities. This agricultural town, often called the "Garden of Quito," is known for its tranquil atmosphere and lush landscapes, particularly its abundant plant nurseries. The Nayon valley features 250-meter-high cliffs and is home to adventure parks. Visitors can explore the town's main plaza for a glimpse into traditional small-town life.
Best attractions and places to see in Nayon
- The most popular attractions…
Last updated: July 4, 2026
Basilica of San Francisco (Quito)
Highlight • Religious Site
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Virgin of El Panecillo
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TelefériQo Cable Car
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Plaza de la Independencia (Plaza Grande), Quito
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Plaza de San Francisco
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The Virgin of El Panecillo (in Spanish: Virgen del Panecillo), also known as the Virgin of Quito from the sculpture of the same name, is a monument in Quito, Ecuador. It is located on the top of the hill of El Panecillo, a loaf-shaped hill in the heart of the city and serves as a backdrop to the historic center of Quito. With a total height of 135 feet (41 meters) including the base, it is the highest statue in Ecuador and one of the highest in South America (taller than the Christ the Redeemer statue in the Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro). It is also the tallest aluminum statue in the world. EN: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virgin_of_El_Panecillo
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The Virgin of El Panecillo, also known as the Virgin of Quito due to the name of the sculpture on which it is inspired, is a monument in the city of Quito D.M., in Ecuador. It is located on the top of the El Panecillo hill, a peculiar elevation shaped like a small bread that is located in the heart of the city and serves as a backdrop to the Historic Center. At 41 meters high, if the base is added, it is the tallest statue in Ecuador and one of the tallest in South America, surpassing even the famous Christ the Redeemer in the city of Rio de Janeiro. It is also the tallest aluminum sculpture on the planet. ES: https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virgen_de_El_Panecillo
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he Basilica of San Francisco (Basílica de San Francisco in Spanish) is the most important part of the Franciscan monastery of El San Francisco in Quito, the capital of Ecuador. The complex at the Plaza de San Francisco in the center of the city dates back to the 16th century and with its imposing structure is the largest architectural ensemble among the historical structures of colonial Latin America. As part of the old town of Quito, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The basilica belongs to the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Quito and bears the title of a minor basilica.[1] The baroque church houses the pilgrimage destination of the Virgin of Quito, created in 1734. Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basilika_San_Francisco_(Quito) Admission free
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One ride costs 9 USD (round trip) in 04/2023
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On a hill overlooking the old town, this 30m high statue of the Virgin Mary with aluminum wings keeps watch.
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Very impressive to take the train up the mountain and have the view of Quito from the top. Great, well-signposted hiking tours start at the top. There is a small snack bar at the cable car for refreshment or shelter in bad weather
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The Plaza Grande is a large square in the center of Quito's old town. In addition to the government building, there are also several churches here. It's also one of the few places where you can have a coffee outside. Most of the time you sit inside.
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The Plaza de San Francisco is a major public square in the Historic Center of Quito, Ecuador, upon which faces La Iglesia y Monasterio de San Francisco from which it takes its name.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore in Nayon?
Nayon is nestled within the beautiful Nayon Valley, characterized by breathtaking 250-meter-high cliffs. The town is also known as the "Garden of Quito" due to its lush landscapes and abundant plant nurseries.
What adventure activities are available in Nayon?
For thrill-seekers, Nayon Xtreme Valley offers a variety of activities. You can experience zip-lines, including one over a 400-meter-deep ravine, an airwalk, a 220-meter Tibetan Bridge suspended 300 meters high, and an extreme swing soaring 300 meters over the canyon. The park also features paintball, natural climbing walls, dirt biking tracks, Tarzan Swing, and rappelling. You can find more details at visitecuadorandsouthamerica.com.
Are there any viewpoints offering panoramic views of Nayon or the surrounding area?
Yes, you can get impressive views from the mountain top by taking the TelefériQo Cable Car. Another notable viewpoint is the Virgin of El Panecillo, a 30m high statue on a hill overlooking Quito's old town, offering expansive vistas.
What cultural or historical sites can I visit in Nayon and nearby?
In Nayon, the Main Plaza offers a glimpse into traditional small-town life. Nearby, you can explore significant historical sites in Quito such as the Plaza de la Independencia (Plaza Grande), the Plaza de San Francisco, and the impressive Basilica of San Francisco.
What makes Nayon known as the "Garden of Quito"?
Nayon earns its nickname, the "Garden of Quito," from its numerous vibrant plant nurseries. These nurseries line the streets and offer a vast selection of over 500 types of plants, including fruit trees, medicinal herbs, flowers, and decorative shrubs, attracting many visitors from Quito.
Are there family-friendly activities in Nayon?
Absolutely. Many attractions are family-friendly, including the TelefériQo Cable Car for scenic rides. The Nayon Xtreme Valley adventure park is also designed for families, offering activities like zip-lines, paintball, and walking paths. The plant nurseries provide a pleasant and educational experience for all ages.
Can I find accommodation or camping options in Nayon?
Yes, Nayon Xtreme Valley offers options for visitors looking to stay overnight. You can bring your own tent for a camping experience in a safe environment, or opt for more comfortable stays in their tree house or cabins, some of which feature jacuzzis and valley views.
What outdoor activities can I do near Nayon's attractions?
The area around Nayon is excellent for various outdoor sports. You can find numerous routes for gravel biking, road cycling, and running. These guides offer routes of varying difficulties, allowing you to explore the region's natural beauty actively.
Where can I experience local life and culture in Nayon?
The heart of Nayon's local life is its Main Plaza, where residents gather and you can observe traditional small-town Ecuadorian culture. The vibrant plant nurseries are also a significant part of the local economy and cultural identity, offering a unique shopping and browsing experience.
What do visitors enjoy most about Nayon?
Visitors appreciate Nayon's blend of tranquil natural beauty, its unique identity as the "Garden of Quito" with abundant plant nurseries, and the thrilling adventure opportunities at Nayon Xtreme Valley. The historical and cultural sites nearby also add to the rich experience.
Are there dining options available near the attractions?
Within Nayon Xtreme Valley, you can find La Estancia del Gaucho, an open-air restaurant serving Argentinian barbecue. Additionally, the Plaza de la Independencia (Plaza Grande) in Quito is one of the few places where you can enjoy coffee outdoors, with many other dining options available in the city center.
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