The Secret Garden Quito is a rooftop hostel, bar and restaurant at J. de Antepara and Antonio Ante in Quito’s Historic Center (postal code 170136), a few steps from the city’s colonial churches, museums and markets. It is built around a wide terrace with panoramic views over the Old Town, which is why backpackers, budget travelers and solo visitors have made it one of Ecuador’s best-known hostels. It holds a 4.6 rating from more than 4,000 reviews and was named a Hostelworld award winner for Best Medium Hostels in South America in 2024.
What to Expect at The Secret Garden Quito
The hostel is organized around its upper floors. Dorms and private rooms are decorated in bright colors, and every bed has a bedside lamp and USB charging point, even in the shared dorms. Mattresses are a stated priority. Dorm guests get lockers, while private rooms use lock boxes. It is a basic two-star property, so expect simple, clean accommodation and a social, communal feel over hotel-style polish.
The rooftop is the main draw. A large deck looks out over the red-tiled roofs and church spires of the Historic Center, and the same space holds the Rooftop Bar & Restaurant, where guests gather for breakfast, dinner and evening cocktails. The staff also run a practical service desk that handles airport transfers, tours, Spanish classes and a free daily walking tour, making it easy to arrive without a plan and still organize your stay on site.
- Rooftop deck and terrace: A very large open deck with Old Town views, popular at sunset and in the evening when the colonial skyline is lit.
- Infinity hammock: A signature hammock suspended over the terrace edge, a favorite photo spot and a quiet place to read.
- Rooftop Bar & Restaurant: Serves meals and cocktails, with a social atmosphere that suits solo travelers meeting other guests.
- Free Walking Tour: Guided introduction to the history, traditions and culture of the Historic Center led by experienced local guides.
- Spanish classes and airport transfers: On-site Spanish lessons for longer stays, plus a taxi pickup service from the airport on the outskirts of the city.
The Secret Garden Quito at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | J. de Antepara & Antonio Ante, Quito 170136, Ecuador |
| Neighborhood / Area | Historic Center (Centro Histórico / Old Town), near San Roque and the Panecillo side of town |
| Operating Hours | Reception and rooms operate daily; rooftop bar and restaurant hours are posted on the official website |
| Admission / Price Range | Budget tier ($); dorm beds are the cheapest option, private rooms cost more. Current rates are listed on the booking page |
| Recommended Visit Duration | Overnight stay of 2 to 4 nights, or 1 to 2 hours for a rooftop meal or drink |
| Nearest Transit / Parking | Short walk from Trolebús and Ecovía stops in the Historic Center; taxis are readily available; limited street parking, so arrive by taxi or transfer |
| Official Website & Phone | secretgardenquito.com · +593 99 198 0027 |
Visiting Tips, Getting There & Nearby Pairings
Because Mariscal Sucre International Airport sits well outside the city, the hostel’s prearranged taxi pickup is the simplest way to reach the Old Town, especially for late arrivals. Within the Historic Center most sights are walkable, but streets are steep and cobbled, and Quito sits at roughly 2,850 meters, so pace yourself on the first day. Book dorm beds early in the dry season from June to September, and reserve private rooms ahead if you are traveling on weekends or holidays. The property is a multi-story hostel with stairs, so travelers with limited mobility should confirm room floor and access options with the team before booking.
Within a 5 to 15 minute walk you can reach Plaza Grande with the Carondelet Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the gilded interior of La Compañía de Jesús church. The Casa del Alabado pre-Columbian art museum and the lively Calle La Ronda, lined with cafes and music venues, are also close. Use the free walking tour to orient yourself, then return to the rooftop for sunset views.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours and best time to visit The Secret Garden Quito?
The hostel operates daily with staffed reception, and rooftop bar and restaurant hours are shown on the official website. The rooftop is at its best around sunset and in the evening, while the dry months of June to September offer the clearest city views.
How much does it cost and do I need to book ahead?
It is a budget-tier hostel, with dorm beds as the lowest price and private rooms costing more. Check current rates and book through the official website at secretgardenquito.com, especially for weekends and peak season.
How long should I stay?
Most guests stay two to four nights to cover the Historic Center, a day trip and acclimatization to the altitude. If you only want the views, budget one to two hours for a meal or drinks on the rooftop.
Is it suitable for solo travelers and families?
Solo travelers and backpackers are the core audience, helped by communal spaces, organized tours and a social bar. Private rooms work for couples and small families, though the stairs and lively evening atmosphere may not suit travelers needing step-free access or quiet nights.
When planning your Quito travel guide or comparing verified restaurants and nightlife in Quito, pair this stop with standout local spots including Calle La Ronda, Fundación Guayasamin, Museo Casa de Sucre, and Old town Quito Suites (nearby).
