El Mitad del Mundo

For the non-spanish speakers, that's the middle of the world. El Mitad del Mundo is a monument marking the equator, and Ecuador's great pride in the fact that they occupy part of it. It is a long trek outside Quito, but worth it. It is surrounded by beautiful mountains and is close to the Pululahua volcano. Along with the monument there are restaurants (where you can try a local specialty cuy, or guinea pig for the english speakers), artesanias, and and an insect gallery. If you go on the week-end you'll be sure to see some live music.