Quito is close to the equator and is on the eastern slopes of Pichincha in the Guayllabamba river basin. This city is the official second highest capital city in the world and is a cultural site declared by UNESCO. Because of its altitude and location to the equator, it has a relatively constantly cool climate. There are many historical points where you can learn or discover facts about Quito such as the monuments and museums located across the city. There are parks and gardens, cloud forests, volcanoes, wildlife refuges, and bird watching lodges. The culture is a mixture of modern and traditional.