Ecuador Travel GuidesQuito Airport Transportation: Best Ways to Get to the City (2025 Guide)

1. Private Airport Transfers (Recommended)

Best for: Comfort, reliability, late arrivals, and groups.

Booking a private transfer from Quito Airport is the most stress-free option. A professional driver will meet you at the arrival gate, assist with luggage, and adjust to your flight status—whether it’s on time or delayed, consider taking a private Quito Airport Transportation

✅ Flat rate: $30 to anywhere in Quito Metropolitan Area
Travel time: ~45 minutes
Pre-book now with EcuaTouring for a smooth arrival experience.

Perfect if you’re heading to the Quito Historic Center or staying in La Floresta or La Mariscal.

2. Quito Airport Taxis

Best for: Travelers arriving during regular hours who didn’t pre-book.

Official Quito Airport taxis are available 24/7. You’ll find them outside the arrivals terminal.

Cost: $30–$40 depending on your destination
Time: ~45 minutes to downtown Quito

If you’re staying at an airport hotel in Tababela, expect fares between $10 and $15. Always confirm the rate with the driver before boarding.

3. Public Airport Buses

Best for: Budget travelers with flexible schedules.

Two main shuttle options operate between Quito Airport and the city:

a. Green Bus (Aeroservicios Express)

• ⏱️ Every 20 minutes from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm

• Drops you off at Río Coca Terminal (north Quito)

• Cost: ~$2 USD

• From there, you’ll need to take a taxi or a local bus to your accommodation.

b. White Bus (Municipal Bus)

• Similar schedule; runs slightly fewer trips

•  Cost: ~$8–$9

• Stops at the old airport site (Bicentenario Park), then transfer by taxi or bus to your final destination.

Total travel time by bus: ~1h20 minutes, including transfer time

Note: If arriving at night, buses may not be running or feel less secure—opt for a taxi or shuttle instead.

4. Hotel Shuttle Services

Some hotels in Quito or Tababela offer free or paid airport shuttle services. However, this is not common, especially for accommodations in central Quito.

Contact your hotel directly to ask if shuttle service is available or opt for a private Quito Airport transportation

5. Car Rentals at Quito Airport

If you prefer to explore Ecuador at your own pace, car rental is another option. All major providers have counters at the Arrivals Hall.

Providers include: Sixt, Avis, Budget, Localiza, Europcar, Enterprise
Check availability and compare prices in advance.

Consider this if you’re heading to places like Cotopaxi Volcano or Mindo Cloud Forest. Need ideas? Explore our guide to things to do in Mindo or Cotopaxi Volcano adventures.

Bonus: Layover Tips & Tours from Quito Airport

Have a long layover at Quito Airport? Why not make the most of your time and:

• Explore Quito Old Town with a half-day tour

• Visit the Equator Line at the Intiñan Solar Museum

• Relax in Papallacta Hot Springs

• Shop handmade goods at the Otavalo Market

✅ Click here to book a layover tour

What’s the Distance from Quito Airport to the City?

The distance between Quito International Airport and downtown Quito (La Mariscal) is approximately 22 miles (35 km). Travel times vary by traffic and time of day.

Quito Airport Amenities & Services

Even if you’re only passing through, Quito Airport offers impressive amenities:

✅ Free Wi-Fi & Charging Stations

Available throughout the domestic and international lounges.

Bottle Refill Stations

Stay hydrated with eco-friendly refill spots.

✈️ VIP Lounge Access

• Domestic VIP Lounge: $25 per person

• International VIP Lounge: $34 per person

• Access via payment, airline invitation, or cards like Priority Pass, Lounge Key, Diners Club, Visa Signature.

Shopping & Dining

Local shops and cafes offer Ecuadorian coffee, chocolate, souvenirs, and travel essentials. Look out for:

• República del Cacao (chocolate)

• Flor de Liz (Ecuadorian roses)

• Plaza Ruana (handicrafts)

• Nomad Travel Stores, Tikuna, Arte Ecuador

For a full list, visit the Quito Airport Center

Health & Biosafety Measures

The airport continues to follow post-COVID protocols to ensure traveler safety:

• Disinfection of all public areas

• Mask use (as needed)

• Capacity limits in lounges

• Frequent sanitation reminders

Start Your Ecuador Adventure with EcuaTouring

Whether you’re heading to the Amazon, the Andes, or the Galápagos, let us help make your first steps in Ecuador easy and unforgettable.

Ready to explore? Check out our full Ecuador Travel Guide or contact us to plan your custom tour.