How to get to Quito

When planning a trip to Quito, travellers find themselves in one of the highest capital cities in the world, situated in the picturesque Andes at the foot of the Pichincha Volcano. This city, combining colonial charm with the rhythm of a modern metropolis, is the main transport hub of Ecuador. The question of how to get to Quito is resolved quite simply: the city possesses a developed infrastructure, welcoming guests through an international airport and an extensive network of highways.

The most convenient way to reach the capital is to take a flight to Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO). This is a modern air gateway, welcoming millions of passengers annually and connecting Quito with many countries around the world. The airport is located in the suburbs but is well integrated into the region's transport system.

If direct tickets are unavailable, one can consider flying to neighbouring cities with a subsequent transfer. The nearest alternative airports are located in the city of Latacunga (just 79 km away) or in the Colombian city of Ipiales. Air connections are also established with the city of Coca, which may be convenient for those planning a complex route through the Amazon.

At the moment, there is no direct regular railway service to the city of Quito, as the capital does not have an operating passenger station for long-distance travel. The railway in Ecuador primarily performs a tourism function, offering excursion routes along picturesque sections of the Andes rather than transport services.

The nearest points that can theoretically be reached by rail as part of tourist tours are located in other regions. Travellers arriving in cities such as Latacunga or Coca will need to use a bus or car for the final leg of the journey to the capital.

Although detailed data on specific bus schedules may be temporarily unavailable, it is worth noting that the bus remains the most popular and budget-friendly way to move around the country. Quito is connected by a dense network of routes with almost all corners of Ecuador, as well as with border cities of neighbouring countries.

Typically, intercity buses arrive at one of the capital's two main terminals: Quitumbe in the south or Carcelén in the north. Travellers are advised to check the schedule and ticket prices on site, as trips depart frequently, and the level of comfort varies from simple local buses to comfortable coaches.

Travelling by car allows you to enjoy views of the "Avenue of the Volcanoes". One of the fastest routes leads from the city of Latacunga: the distance is about 89 km, which usually takes around 1.5 hours of driving on the highway. This is an excellent option for a short trip.

For those driving from the north, from the border with Colombia, the journey from the city of Ipiales will take about 5 hours (distance — 270 km). The route from the city of Coca, connecting the Andes with the jungle, is longer: you will have to drive about 300 km, which will take approximately 6 hours.

A trip to Quito will provide a wealth of impressions if you prepare in advance for the peculiarities of the high-altitude climate and local culture. Here are several recommendations that will make your stay in the capital of Ecuador comfortable and safe.

1. Clothing and Items. The weather here is changeable: the sun may shine in the morning, and it may rain in the afternoon. Stick to the principle of layering: take t-shirts, fleece jackets, and a waterproof windbreaker. Comfortable shoes for walking on hilly streets are mandatory.
2. Transport. The historic centre is best explored on foot, but for longer distances, use official taxis (yellow colour with license plates) or apps like Uber. During peak hours, public transport (trolleybuses and buses) can be overcrowded.
3. Finances. The official currency is the US Dollar. Always carry small bills (1, 5, 10, 20 dollars) and coins, as change is often unavailable for large bills. Cards are accepted in major establishments, but cash is needed at markets.
4. Health and Safety. The city is located at an altitude of 2,850 metres, so altitude sickness is possible. Drink plenty of water, avoid heavy meals on the first day, and use strong sunscreen — the equatorial sun is very active.
5. Communication. The main language is Spanish. In tourist areas, staff may speak English, but knowing basic phrases in Spanish (greetings, numbers) will greatly facilitate communication and create a good impression with locals.
6. Local Etiquette. Ecuadorians are polite and friendly. It is customary to greet people ("Buenos días/tardes") when entering a shop or taxi. Do not photograph local residents (especially the indigenous population) without their permission.
7. What to Avoid. Do not walk alone on deserted streets and parks after dark, especially outside tourist zones. Keep valuables and smartphones in inner pockets, avoiding displaying them on crowded streets.
8. Additional Tip. Be sure to visit the "Middle of the World" complex (Mitad del Mundo) to stand with one foot in the Northern Hemisphere and the other in the Southern Hemisphere — this is a classic experience for any guest of the city.

Observing these simple rules will help you focus on the beauty of the colonial architecture and the grandeur of the Andes without being distracted by minor inconveniences.