How to get around Ecuador
Navigating Ecuador is straightforward with a variety of public and private transport options. Here's what you need to know about getting between and within its cities and towns.
Inter-City Travel
Traveling between cities in Ecuador offers various options, catering to different budgets and time constraints. Buses are the most common and economical choice, with comfortable services available, often including amenities like Wi-Fi and movies. Expect to pay approximately $1 to $2 per hour of travel, with typical long journeys such as Quito to Baños costing around $5 for a 3-hour ride, or Quito to Cuenca costing about $20 for a 10-hour journey.
Tickets are generally purchased directly at bus stations, as online schedules can be unreliable. For those prioritizing speed, domestic flights are available, typically ranging from $80 to $400 for a one-way trip, though prices can fluctuate. These flights connect major hubs like Quito (UIO) and Guayaquil (GYE) to other cities. Private transfer vans are also an option for intercity travel, offering more convenience and comfort at a higher cost, around $3 to $4 per hour.
Ecuador also has a limited train network, primarily used for tourism purposes.
Travel Within Cities
Within Ecuadorian cities, several transport methods are available. The most budget-friendly option is public buses and trolleybuses, with fares typically ranging from $0.25 to $0.50 for a single journey. Quito, for example, operates an efficient rapid bus system, including the Trolebus, Ecovia, and Metrobus, with a flat fare of $0.25 during the day and $0.50 at night. Taxis are widely available, offering a more direct way to travel.
While meters are legally required, it is advisable to confirm the use of the meter or agree on a price beforehand, especially in cities like Guayaquil where meters are less frequently used. A typical taxi ride within a city may start at around $1.50 to $2.30, with additional charges of approximately $2 per kilometer. A 5km ride in Guayaquil might cost about $12.30, and a ride across Quito averages around $5.
Ride-hailing applications such as Uber, Cabify, and Easy Taxi are also operational in major cities like Quito, Cuenca, and Guayaquil, providing transparent pricing and ease of booking. In some smaller towns, you might encounter unique local transportation like adapted bikes or tricycles for short rides.
