If you plan to visit Ecuador, you’ll most probably fly to Quito, the capital, where you will land at Mariscal Sucre Quito International Airport (UIO). Located 40 km northeast of Quito city center, there are three transport options available to reach your hotel. You can either take a taxi or private transfer or catch a local bus.
The fastest and most convenient way to travel is to take a Quito Airport taxi or a private transfer, which will take you there in about 40 minutes. The bus takes considerably longer – more than 90 minutes – and requires at least one transfer to another bus. However, if you’re traveling on a budget and with little luggage, this may be the most suitable option for you.
We suggest selecting a pickup time at least 30 minutes after your flight’s scheduled arrival time to ensure you have enough time to pass through Immigration and collect any luggage.
If you're arriving lat at night, a Quito taxi may be your only available transport option. It's even better to book your airport taxi in advance with Welcome so you don't have to wait in line.
The public bus takes more than twice as long as a taxi or private transfer, which isn't ideal after a long flight or late at night.
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How to get from Quito Airport to the city by taxi
Getting fromQuito Airport to the city by taxi is the fastest and most convenient transportation option. Cooperativa de Taxis del Aeropuerto is the official service provider at Quito Airport, and you can find drivers 24/7 at the taxi rank outside the main terminal building. Quito Airport taxis typically seat 4 passengers and the ride downtown takes roughly 40 minutes. Look for a yellow vehicle with a registration number on the front door to confirm you are taking an official taxi.
Alternatively, you canbook your Quito Airport transfer in advance and avoid waiting in line with passengers arriving at the same time as you.
How much is a taxi from Quito Airport to the city?
From Quito Airport to the city center the taxi fare will depend on the exact location of your hotel or apartment. Prices are generally fixed and a price guide should be posted next to the taxi stand or inside the Arrivals Hall. On average, the taxi cost from Quito Airport to downtown is $25 (€24.30) for up to 4 passengers, although some drivers may charge slightly more.
Where do I get a taxi from?
There is an official taxi stand located right outside the arrivals main terminal building; you will find taxis there 24/7.
Convenience
If you’re looking for the fastest and most comfortable way to get from Quito Airport to the city, an airport taxi is your best bet. Instead of being crammed onto a bus and potentially having to stand, you can grab a ride from right out front and be on your way. To avoid any issues on arrival, always agree on – and stick to – a price before starting your ride.
Useful Tips
Not all taxi drivers in Quito speak English, so make sure to have your address or any other information written down in Spanish.
Always make sure to have cash in US dollars; try to avoid large bills as the driver might not be able to provide change.
When you enter the taxi, always agree on a fixed price or check that the meter has been reset.
In Quito, it's mandatory for all passengers in the taxi to wear a seatbelt.
Official taxis have their registration number displayed and must have onboard video surveillance cameras installed.
You can catch a bus from Quito Airport to the city using the local bus lines, 198, 199, and 200. These are run by three different companies; SOTRANOR operates between the airport and Río Coca Terminal, COSIBO runs to Quitumbe Terminal, and OPERNORTE to Carcelén Terminal.
Unless you’re traveling onwards to another destination, the closest terminal to the city center is Río Coca Terminal. The 200 line takes 1 hour to reach the terminal, where you will then transfer to a local bus or a trolley headed towards the city, such as the E3 or 22. Both of these will reach Estación Marin Central or Mercado Central in around 35 minutes. This brings the total journey time to 1 hour and 35 minutes, not including wait and transfer times.
How much is the Quito Airport bus to the city?
The first leg of your bus journey will cost around $2 (€2), and from the bus terminal, you’ll pay a further $0.35 (€0.35). You’ll need to pay for each ticket in cash as you board the bus, so be prepared with smaller notes or coins.
Cost
€2.35
Trip Duration
95 Min.
The bus departs every 20 minutes. Buses and troles depart from Rio Coca terminal every 5 to 15 minutes.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
Buses are available between 06:00 and 22:00.
Where do I get the bus from?
After you exit the main terminal building on the Arrivals level at the airport, you will find the bus stop on your right.
Convenience
Getting from Quito Airport to Quito by bus is a great budget-friendly option if you’re not in a hurry. However, while this may suit people traveling lightly, it can be uncomfortable and crowded if you have children or lots of luggage in tow.
Also, keep in mind that most international flights arrive late at night and the last bus departs from the airport at around 22:00. In this case, your only option would be to take a local taxi or to pre-book a Quito Airport transfer which are available 24/7.
Useful Tips
Other bus lines may be available from the airport that can drop you closer to your hotel. If you're not staying in the historic center, it's best to speak with someone at the Information counter on arrival so they can guide you.
There ins't a dedicated storage space for luggage on the bus.
When riding a local bus, always keep an eye on your belongings.
A 'trole' is the local term for a trolleybus.
Getting from Quito Airport to city with a private transfer
The best transportation option from Quito Airport to downtown is a Quito Airport transfer. Welcome Pickups provides reliable door-to-door services around the clock, for a personalized and memorable travel experience. Enjoy perks such as:
Meet and greets
Trained English-speaking drivers
Flight monitoring
Guaranteed fixed fares
24/7 customer support
Flexible cancellation policy
On top of that, your driver will make you feel right at home by providing valuable tips and recommendations on places to eat or see during your stay, as well as give you a mini tour of the city on the way to your accommodation.
How much is a private transfer?
One of the best things about booking a private Quito Airport transfer is that you’ll receive a fixed quote before you book. This will include all airport tolls and surcharges so that there are no surprises on the day you travel. You won’t even need to carry or withdraw cash since you can pay for your trip in advance.
From Quito Airport to the city center you can expect to pay:
Sedan (up to 3 passengers) – $32 (€31)
SUV (up to 5 passengers) – $61.80 (€60)
Minivan (up to 8 passengers) – $90.70 (€88)
Minibus (up to 12 passengers) – $152.50 (€148)
To book, you can use our website or mobile app; simply enter your personal details, flight number, and desired pickup time to get a fully inclusive quote.
Cost
€31
Trip Duration
40 Min.
*Book in advance to avoid waiting on arrival.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
Private transfers can be arranged 24/7 from Quito Airport.
Where will my private transfer depart from?
Once you land, you’ll be greeted by a professional, English-speaking driver, who will be happy to help you with your luggage and take you to your accommodation in your private vehicle. As you enter the Arrivals Hall, they will be holding a sign with your name on it so you won’t miss them. During your Quito Airport transfer to the city, feel free to ask your driver for recommendations on places to eat or must-see attractions that only a local would know.
Convenience
For almost the same price as a taxi, a private transfer offers lots of convenient extras to ensure you get the most out of your holiday. Guaranteed on-time pickups, English-speaking drivers, and modern, spacious vehicles with plenty of room for luggage. If you’re looking for a professional service with a friend on the ground, a private transfer is the most convenient choice.
Useful Tips
At Welcome Pickups, we provide all our drivers with live updates on any changes to your flight time. This means that if your flight is delayed or arrives early, your driver will always be there to greet you when you land.
If you require a baby booster seat or a wheelchair-adapted vehicle, simply let us know at the time of booking so we can have your vehicle ready on arrival.
Your driver won't expect a tip but you are welcome to offer one if you feel the service has been excellent.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a taxi from Quito Airport to downtown?
Taxis from Quito Airport usually provide a fixed price based on the guidelines posted near the taxi stand. A standard taxi for up to 4 passengers from Quito Airport to Quito costs an average of $25 (€24.30).
How do I get from Quito Airport to the center?
Taking a taxi from Quito Airport to the city is the quickest option with a journey time of 40 minutes in light traffic. Alternatively, you can take a public bus, which connects the airport to the city, where you will need to transfer to another bus or trolley.
For a reliable and personalized transfer service with no hidden fees, you can pre-book a private transfer with Welcome Pickups.
How far is Quito Airport from town?
The distance from Quito Airport to the city center is approximately 40 kilometers. To get there by car or taxi takes about 40 minutes in light traffic.
Getting from Quito Airport to the city by taxi is the fastest and most convenient transportation option. Cooperativa de Taxis del Aeropuerto is the official service provider at Quito Airport, and you can find drivers 24/7 at the taxi rank outside the main terminal building. Quito Airport taxis typically seat 4 passengers and the ride downtown takes roughly 40 minutes. Look for a yellow vehicle with a registration number on the front door to confirm you are taking an official taxi.
Alternatively, you can book your Quito Airport transfer in advance and avoid waiting in line with passengers arriving at the same time as you.
How much is a taxi from Quito Airport to the city?
From Quito Airport to the city center the taxi fare will depend on the exact location of your hotel or apartment. Prices are generally fixed and a price guide should be posted next to the taxi stand or inside the Arrivals Hall. On average, the taxi cost from Quito Airport to downtown is $25 (€24.30) for up to 4 passengers, although some drivers may charge slightly more.
Where do I get a taxi from?
There is an official taxi stand located right outside the arrivals main terminal building; you will find taxis there 24/7.
Convenience
If you’re looking for the fastest and most comfortable way to get from Quito Airport to the city, an airport taxi is your best bet. Instead of being crammed onto a bus and potentially having to stand, you can grab a ride from right out front and be on your way. To avoid any issues on arrival, always agree on – and stick to – a price before starting your ride.
Useful Tips
Book a trusted, English-speaking driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular taxi
Learn moreYou can catch a bus from Quito Airport to the city using the local bus lines, 198, 199, and 200. These are run by three different companies; SOTRANOR operates between the airport and Río Coca Terminal, COSIBO runs to Quitumbe Terminal, and OPERNORTE to Carcelén Terminal.
Unless you’re traveling onwards to another destination, the closest terminal to the city center is Río Coca Terminal. The 200 line takes 1 hour to reach the terminal, where you will then transfer to a local bus or a trolley headed towards the city, such as the E3 or 22. Both of these will reach Estación Marin Central or Mercado Central in around 35 minutes. This brings the total journey time to 1 hour and 35 minutes, not including wait and transfer times.
How much is the Quito Airport bus to the city?
The first leg of your bus journey will cost around $2 (€2), and from the bus terminal, you’ll pay a further $0.35 (€0.35). You’ll need to pay for each ticket in cash as you board the bus, so be prepared with smaller notes or coins.
Buses are available between 06:00 and 22:00.
Where do I get the bus from?
After you exit the main terminal building on the Arrivals level at the airport, you will find the bus stop on your right.
Convenience
Getting from Quito Airport to Quito by bus is a great budget-friendly option if you’re not in a hurry. However, while this may suit people traveling lightly, it can be uncomfortable and crowded if you have children or lots of luggage in tow.
Also, keep in mind that most international flights arrive late at night and the last bus departs from the airport at around 22:00. In this case, your only option would be to take a local taxi or to pre-book a Quito Airport transfer which are available 24/7.
Useful Tips
The best transportation option from Quito Airport to downtown is a Quito Airport transfer. Welcome Pickups provides reliable door-to-door services around the clock, for a personalized and memorable travel experience. Enjoy perks such as:
On top of that, your driver will make you feel right at home by providing valuable tips and recommendations on places to eat or see during your stay, as well as give you a mini tour of the city on the way to your accommodation.
How much is a private transfer?
One of the best things about booking a private Quito Airport transfer is that you’ll receive a fixed quote before you book. This will include all airport tolls and surcharges so that there are no surprises on the day you travel. You won’t even need to carry or withdraw cash since you can pay for your trip in advance.
From Quito Airport to the city center you can expect to pay:
To book, you can use our website or mobile app; simply enter your personal details, flight number, and desired pickup time to get a fully inclusive quote.
Private transfers can be arranged 24/7 from Quito Airport.
Where will my private transfer depart from?
Once you land, you’ll be greeted by a professional, English-speaking driver, who will be happy to help you with your luggage and take you to your accommodation in your private vehicle. As you enter the Arrivals Hall, they will be holding a sign with your name on it so you won’t miss them. During your Quito Airport transfer to the city, feel free to ask your driver for recommendations on places to eat or must-see attractions that only a local would know.
Convenience
For almost the same price as a taxi, a private transfer offers lots of convenient extras to ensure you get the most out of your holiday. Guaranteed on-time pickups, English-speaking drivers, and modern, spacious vehicles with plenty of room for luggage. If you’re looking for a professional service with a friend on the ground, a private transfer is the most convenient choice.
Useful Tips
Frequently asked questions
How much is a taxi from Quito Airport to downtown?
Taxis from Quito Airport usually provide a fixed price based on the guidelines posted near the taxi stand. A standard taxi for up to 4 passengers from Quito Airport to Quito costs an average of $25 (€24.30).
How do I get from Quito Airport to the center?
Taking a taxi from Quito Airport to the city is the quickest option with a journey time of 40 minutes in light traffic. Alternatively, you can take a public bus, which connects the airport to the city, where you will need to transfer to another bus or trolley.
For a reliable and personalized transfer service with no hidden fees, you can pre-book a private transfer with Welcome Pickups.
How far is Quito Airport from town?
The distance from Quito Airport to the city center is approximately 40 kilometers. To get there by car or taxi takes about 40 minutes in light traffic.
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