Transfer to/from - Quito airport (UIO)

 
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Public transportation services, licensed taxis and rideshare, private transfer companies and car rental services in Quito airport (UIO)

 

 Transportation

 

Mariscal Sucre Airport is connected to the Quito metropolitan area by a network of public buses, private transfer services, authorized taxis, and ride-hailing apps.

Private Transfers

For travelers seeking greater comfort and personalized service, the most recommended option is to book a private transfer online. By booking this service in advance, a driver will meet you in the arrivals hall holding a sign with your name, eliminating the need to negotiate fares or look for transportation after landing.

Rates start at USD 40.00 for vehicles accommodating up to 2 passengers and increase according to vehicle capacity (minibuses for 5 or 10 people). The service must be booked at least 8 hours in advance and provides transportation to both hotels and private residences in Quito.

Buses

The public transportation system of the Metropolitan District of Quito operates routes to the northern and southern parts of the city. The fare is approximately USD 2.00 to USD 2.50. Buses operate from 5:30 am until approximately 10:00 pm, connecting the airport with Quito's three main intercity bus terminals:

  • SOTRANOR Consortium: To Río Coca Terminal (North).
  • OPERNORTE Consortium: To Carcelén Terminal (North).
  • COSIBO Consortium: To Quitumbe Terminal (South).

  Rent a Car

 

Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps

Authorized taxi services operate 24 hours a day, and the taxi stands are located just outside the arrivals hall. The official taxi cooperatives are Univalles and Cooperativa Aeropuerto. The trip to Quito's Historic Center takes approximately 45–60 minutes, depending on traffic. It is recommended to confirm the fare before starting the trip; the average cost ranges from USD 25.00 to USD 35.00. Most drivers only accept cash payments.

Uber and Cabify: These apps operate in Quito. Due to local regulations, drivers generally pick up passengers in the second lane, across the sidewalk in front of the arrivals hall, as the lane immediately adjacent to the terminal is reserved for official taxis. The estimated fare to downtown ranges from USD 18.00 to USD 25.00.

 
 

Latest updates: August 24, 2026

Transportation Tips to/from the airport

Some of these tips may seem obvious, but they are worth keeping in mind when traveling to or from the airport, especially if you are using public transportation.
 
 1 - To the airport: leave a little earlier than usually recommended. If you take a taxi or a private car service, allow for rush hour traffic, demonstrations, strikes or events that could delay your trip. It always helps to check the local news before you leave.
 
If you book a shared shuttle, keep the company's contact number handy in case the pickup is late. These services usually confirm a scheduled pickup time in advance.
 
If you use public transportation (bus or train), check the schedules (weekends and holidays usually have less frequent service), whether you need to transfer, and how to pay the fare (a transit card, or cash to the driver). These details seem obvious, but knowing them ahead of time can save you from a delay that could cause problems.
 
If you drive a rental car to the airport, check where to return it. Many airports have a dedicated rental car return area.
 
 2 - From the airport: this part is less stressful, since there is no risk of missing a flight. At worst, you will reach your hotel or meeting point a little later than planned.
 
Once you leave the plane, collect your baggage and complete any required arrival procedures. Then follow the signs for ground transportation or ask airport staff.
 
Check bus and train schedules in advance if you arrive late at night, since not all services run 24 hours. The same applies to taxis. If you plan to use a ride-hailing app such as Uber, have it ready on your phone to contact the driver.
 
If you booked a private transfer, a driver will usually be waiting for you with a sign. If you are renting a car, booking in advance gives you more peace of mind. Rental counters are usually located in the arrivals hall.

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