Parque La Carolina is a multiuse outdoor space full of tree-lined paths, intriguing facilities and sports fields. It is playfully known as “New York’s Central Park in Quito” due to its large green spaces in the centre of the city. Among its highlights are its botanical gardens, an exhibit centre and a reptile house. It is an ideal spot to relax and enjoy natural features in the capital city’s centre.

Meander through the park’s intricate network of pathways lined by trees. Relish the sunshine as you people-watch from a bench. Join a game of soccer or watch one of the competitive events in the sports areas. Remember to bring your own gear if you want to play tennis, volleyball or basketball on one of the courts. You will usually find locals playing the nation’s most popular sport, soccer.

Bring an array of ingredients to form a picnic to be enjoyed on the spacious flat lawn, which is also perfect for kite flying. Rent a paddleboat and take it out on the large pond on the southern side of the park.

Near to the pond you will find the Jardiín Botánco de Quito (Botanical Garden of Quito). Browse the collection of colourful plants native to the Andes Mountains and Ecuadorian Highlands. Wander through the immense orchid collection of more than 1,200 species, examine the educational studies on local ecosystems and relax at the charming café.

In the western section of the park, you will find La Carolina Vivarium, where the snakes and lizards gather. Nearby, the Ecuadorian Museum of Natural Science teaches visitors about the country’s interesting natural history and potential future.

Parque La Carolina is situated in the centre of Quito’s business district, near to restaurants, cafés and shopping centres. It opens daily to the public with no admission fee, although some of the attractions have their own entrance costs and opening times. Take a bus or walk to the park.