Getting from Quito airport to city center takes 45 minutes to 1 hour by car. Quito’s Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) sits in Tababela, about 43–48 km (roughly 27–30 miles) east of the city. Your main options are an official airport taxi (USD 25–40), Uber (USD 20–30), a hostel or hotel pickup, or the public bus (USD 2, roughly 1–1.5 hours).
Because the airport is so far from town, it’s worth planning your transfer in advance — especially if you’re arriving late at night or during rush hour (7–9:30am and 4–7:30pm), when the trip can take 30–45 minutes longer than usual.
Quick answer: getting from Quito airport to the city
- Official airport taxi: USD 25–40, ~45 min–1 hour, available 24/7 right outside arrivals
- Uber: USD 20–30, similar travel time, order once you’re through arrivals
- Hostel/hotel airport pickup: pre-arranged, fixed price, driver waiting with a sign
- Public bus: USD 2, ~1–1.5 hours, cheapest option but with transfers
Official airport taxi
Official taxis queue outside the arrivals terminal and are available 24 hours a day. Expect to pay around USD 25–40 to reach Old Town or La Mariscal, depending on traffic and your exact destination. This is the simplest option if you land late at night or don’t want to deal with an app.
Uber and ride-hailing apps
Uber operates at Quito airport and typically costs USD 20–30 to the city center — slightly cheaper than an official taxi, provided you have a working SIM or Wi-Fi to request the ride. Pickup points are marked in the arrivals area.
Airport pickup through your hostel
If you’d rather not negotiate a fare or worry about finding a driver after a long flight, most hostels in Quito — including Community Hostel Quito — offer airport pickup. You give your flight details in advance, a driver waits for you at arrivals with a sign, and the price is agreed before you land. It’s a good option if you’re arriving at night or traveling solo.
Public bus (cheapest option)
The public bus is by far the cheapest way into the city at USD 2 per ticket, though it takes longer (around 1–1.5 hours) and involves transferring to the city’s Trolebús or Ecovía system once you reach the terminal. Buses run from the airport to Terminal Río Coca, Terminal Quitumbe and Terminal Carcelén at different times — see our full guide to Quito’s bus stations and airport buses for exact schedules and which terminal to use depending on where you’re staying.
Tips for arriving at Quito airport
- Avoid rush hour if you can: 7–9:30am and 4–7:30pm add 30–45 minutes to the drive.
- Only use official taxis or Uber: avoid unofficial drivers offering rides inside the terminal.
- Have small bills ready: for tipping or the public bus fare.
- Altitude: Quito sits at ~2,850m (9,350ft) — take it easy on your first day, drink water, and go light on alcohol.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Quito airport from the city center?
Mariscal Sucre International Airport is about 43–48 km (27–30 miles) from Old Town, roughly 45 minutes to 1 hour by car depending on traffic.
How much is a taxi from Quito airport to the city?
An official airport taxi costs approximately USD 25–40 to the city center; Uber is typically a bit cheaper at USD 20–30.
Is there a bus from Quito airport to the city center?
Yes. Public buses run from the airport to Terminal Río Coca, Terminal Quitumbe and Terminal Carcelén for a flat USD 2 fare, taking roughly 1–1.5 hours including the connection into the city center.
Can I arrange airport pickup with my hostel in Quito?
Most hostels, including Community Hostel Quito, offer pre-arranged airport pickup where a driver meets you at arrivals with a sign for a fixed price agreed in advance.
What is the best way to get from Quito airport to Old Town at night?
An official taxi or a pre-arranged hostel pickup are the safest options late at night, since the public bus service is limited outside daytime hours.
Landing in Quito and staying in the Historic Center? Get in touch with Community Hostel Quito ahead of time to arrange airport pickup, or head straight to book your stay.
