Introduction

Baños, Ecuador, is a must-visit destination known for its stunning waterfalls, adventure activities, natural hot springs, restaurants, nightlife. Most international travelers arrive in Quito’s Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) before making their way to Baños. But what’s the best way to get there?

In this guide, we’ll cover four main transportation options from Quito Airport to Baños, along with tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable. Plus, we’ll share the best Baños tours you can take starting in Quito.


1. Taking the Bus from Quito Airport to Baños (Budget-Friendly Option)

How to Take a Bus to Baños

  1. From Quito Airport to Quitumbe Terminal: Outside the airport, look for the green buses (on the right-hand side). Take the one marked “Terminal Quitumbe.” This ride takes about 1 hour.
  2. From Quitumbe Terminal to Baños: Once at the terminal, buy a ticket from “Transportes Baños” (ask for the correct destination, as they serve multiple locations). Buses to Baños leave every hour and take from 5 to 6hours.
  3. Total Travel Time: ~6 hours
  4. Cost: ~$7–$10 per person

Bus Travel Tips

  • Keep your luggage close – Avoid placing bags under the bus.
  • Stay aware of your surroundings – Pickpocketing can happen in crowded bus stations.
  • Consider traveling during the day – It’s safer and offers better views of Ecuador’s landscapes.

Looking for a hassle-free alternative? A tour or private transfer may be a better fit!


2. Baños Tour from Quito (Best for Convenience & Experience)

If you want a smooth, comfortable ride with guided stops along the way, a tour from Quito to Baños is a fantastic option. These tours include a private guide, transportation, and pre-arranged activities so you can enjoy your trip without any stress.

What’s Included in a Baños Tour from Quito?

  • Pickup at Quito Airport or your hotel
  • Stops at scenic spots for photos, restrooms and snacks
  • Arrival in Baños in just 3.5 hours
  • Planned activities like waterfall tours, hot springs, and adventure sports
  • Flexible itineraries (1-day, 2-day, or 3-day tours available in Baños and Surroundings)

Recommended Tours

Tour Price: Varies based on itinerary, but generally offers great value compared to planning everything separately.

Check out our Baños Ecuador tours for more details!

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3. Booking a Taxi or Private Transfer (Fastest Option)

For those who prefer comfort and privacy, a private transfer or taxi from Quito Airport to Baños is a great choice.

Pros & Cons of a Taxi/Transfer

Pros:

  • Fastest option (~3.5 to 4 hours total travel time)
  • Direct to your hotel
  • Comfortable & private

Cons:

  • Higher cost (~$100–$150 per ride)
  • Most taxi drivers don’t speak English – Confirm the fare in writing beforehand.

How to Book a Transfer?

  • Pre-arrange a transfer with a trusted company before arriving.
  • Negotiate a taxi fare in advance if booking at the airport.

Want a stress-free arrival? Book a private transfer from Quito to Baños.


4. Renting a Car & Driving to Baños (For Adventurous Travelers)

If you prefer full flexibility, renting a car might be a great choice. The drive from Quito to Baños is about 3.5 hours, following the Pan-American Highway and scenic mountain roads.

Things to Know Before Driving

  • Tolls: Have small bills/coins ready.
  • GPS & Routes: Stick to main roads—some shortcuts may be unsafe.
  • Daytime Travel Recommended: Road visibility is better during the day.
  • Fuel Cost: Gasoline in Ecuador (~$2.75 per gallon).

Not sure about driving? Consider a private transfer instead!


Best Baños Ecuador Tours 

Don’t miss these amazing tour options:

Waterfall Route Tour (Most Popular!)

  • Explore Pailón del Diablo, Manto de la Novia & more!
  • Available as a bike tour or guided chiva bus tour.

Whitewater Rafting on the Pastaza River

  • Thrilling Class III & IV rapids for adventure lovers.

Amazon Tours from Baños

  • Explore the Ecuadorian Amazon on a 1-day or multi-day tour.
  • Visit indigenous communities, canoe along rivers, and spot wildlife.

Quilotoa & Baños Combo Tour

  • Perfect for travelers who also want to see the breathtaking Quilotoa Crater Lake.

Check out our full list of Baños Ecuador tours and book your adventure today!


FAQs About Traveling from Quito to Baños

What is the fastest way to get from Quito to Baños?

  • A private transfer or rental car (~3.5 hours).

Is it safe to travel from Quito to Baños at night?

  • It’s recommended to travel during the day for safety and better road visibility.

Can I book a Baños tour that includes transportation from Quito?


Conclusion

No matter how you choose to travel from Quito Airport to Baños, there’s an option for every budget and preference.

  • Bus: Budget-friendly but long (~6 hours)
  • Tour: Hassle-free, guided, and comfortable (~3.5 hours)
  • Private Transfer: Fast and direct (~3.5–4 hours)
  • Rental Car: Flexible but requires confidence in driving (~3.5 hours)

Want to make the most of your trip? Check out our Baños Ecuador tours and start planning your adventure today!

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2 comments

  • jackie petersen

    December 29, 2023 at 5:16 pm

    Hello,

    We are a party of two looking for round trip transportation to Banos from Quito airport. We arrive Quito at 14:50 on March 8th and need to return to Quito airport hotel the evening of March 10th for an early morning flight March 11th. As of now we have a hotel booked in Banos and would like to see the highlights of Banos without a group tour.

  • EcuaTouring

    January 21, 2024 at 12:39 pm

    Hey Jackie, thank you for contacting us! yes indeed we can take care of your enquiry, we have sent you an email on saturday december 30th,please check your spam!

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