Getting There & Away in Quito

Good to Know

• Quito airport sits at 2,400m elevation; the city is even higher at 2,850m. Altitude sickness (soroche) is common—symptoms include headache, nausea, fatigue, shortness of breath. Plan a light first day and drink water immediately upon arrival.
• Ride-sharing (Uber, DiDi, inDriver) is widely available in Quito despite not being officially registered in Ecuador. Drivers may ask passengers to sit in the front to avoid suspicion from authorities, but this is standard practice.
• Public buses within Quito can become very crowded, especially during rush hours (7-9 AM, 5-8 PM). Pickpocketing is a documented risk on buses and at bus terminals—keep valuables concealed and avoid traveling on buses at night.
• When using yellow taxis, always request the taximetro (meter) by saying 'Con taximetro por favor.' Drivers are reluctant to use it as it reduces their earnings. At night, call a taxi rather than flagging one on the street.
• Tipping is not common for taxi drivers in Quito but is appreciated if the driver assists with luggage (approximately $1 USD).
• Long-distance buses from Quito vary in comfort. Unlike Peru, Ecuadorian buses typically have basic seating, limited recline, and infrequent comfort breaks. Some long-distance bus toilets may be locked or have signs indicating 'urine only.'
• Domestic flights to the Galápagos Islands depart from Quito International Airport via a separate domestic check-in area. Multiple airlines operate these routes with varying frequencies.
• Railway service in Ecuador is strictly for heritage tourism. The Quito–Machachi and Tren Crucero routes are scenic excursions, not functional transportation for reaching other cities on schedule.
• Most day-trip operators can be booked through your hotel's tour desk or via travel agencies. Many include transportation, guide, and optional activities (cable car, museum entry, lunch) for a flat daily rate.