Quick answer
Quito's Mariscal Sucre International Airport is located about 45 km east of the city center in Tababela. The drive takes 45-90 minutes depending on traffic, which is a significant factor in Quito. A pre-booked transfer to the historic center or La Mariscal costs $25-40 USD. Official airport taxis cost $25-35. There is an Aeroservicios shuttle bus for $8 that runs to the old airport site (Bicentenario Park) in northern Quito. Uber works in Quito and costs $15-25 to the city, though pickup logistics at the airport can be complicated.
What actually happens after landing
UIO is a modern single-terminal airport opened in 2013. It is well-organized and clean. After collecting your bags, you exit through customs into a spacious arrivals hall with ATMs, currency exchange, and a tourist information desk.
The official taxi counter is immediately visible as you exit. The Aeroservicios shuttle bus counter is nearby. Car rental desks line the arrivals hall. If you are using Uber, you will need to walk outside to the parking area for pickup, as rideshare drivers cannot enter the arrivals lane.
One important factor: Quito sits at 2,850 meters (9,350 feet) above sea level. Even the airport at Tababela, while slightly lower, is at high altitude. Moving quickly with heavy luggage when you are not acclimatized can leave you breathless. Take it easy.
Transport options explained honestly
Official airport taxis: Regulated taxis operate from a counter in arrivals. You state your destination, receive a ticket with the fare, and are assigned a car. Fares are $25-35 to the city center. Cars are yellow and metered for the return but use fixed fares from the airport. This is a reliable option.
Uber: Available in Quito and generally cheaper at $15-25 to the center. The complication is the airport pickup — drivers must collect you in the parking area rather than arrivals, and connectivity can be patchy. Wait times vary from 5-20 minutes. Some drivers cancel when they see the airport location due to the long return trip.
Aeroservicios shuttle bus: Runs every 30 minutes from the airport to the old airport site (Parque Bicentenario) in northern Quito. The fare is $8 per person. The ride takes about 45 minutes on a good day. From the old airport, you need a taxi or bus to reach your final destination. Practical for budget travelers heading to the north of the city.
Regular city buses: Not recommended from this airport. The airport is far from the city and bus connections are infrequent and confusing.
Realistic pricing expectations
Typical one-way fares from UIO in 2026:
- La Mariscal / Tourist district: $25-35 (45-70 min)
- Historic Center (Centro Historico): $28-40 (50-80 min)
- La Carolina / Financial district: $22-30 (40-60 min)
- Cumbaya / Tumbaco (near airport): $10-18 (15-25 min)
- Otavalo: $50-80 (90-120 min)
- Mindo Cloud Forest: $60-90 (2-2.5 hours)
- Cotopaxi area: $60-85 (90-120 min)
Late night arrivals
Several international flights from the US arrive late at night. The airport remains open and staffed. Official taxis operate 24 hours. Uber availability drops after midnight but drivers are still active. The shuttle bus does not run late at night.
The drive is significantly faster at night — 30-40 minutes to the center without traffic. The highway is well-lit for most of the route. A pre-booked transfer is the most comfortable option for late arrivals, as your driver is confirmed regardless of the hour.
Families and luggage
Ecuador does not have strict car seat enforcement, but child seats are recommended for young children. Taxis and Uber vehicles will not have them. Private transfer companies can provide child seats if requested in advance.
The airport has family restrooms and is manageable with pushchairs. For luggage, the 45 km highway drive means you are in the car for a while — make sure there is room for everyone to sit comfortably alongside bags. SUVs and minivans can be requested for larger families.
Where you meet the driver
Pre-booked transfer drivers wait in the arrivals hall, typically near the exit doors with a name sign. Some companies use the short-term parking area just outside — your booking confirmation will specify the meeting point.
For official taxis, go to the taxi counter in arrivals, get your ticket, and proceed to the taxi stand outside. For Uber, exit the terminal and walk to the designated pickup area in the parking zone. Have your phone charged and your app ready.
Decision helper
Take an official taxi if: You are comfortable in Latin American cities, traveling light, and want to go immediately without advance booking.
Use Uber if: You are budget-conscious, have a working phone with data, and are patient with the airport pickup process.
Take the shuttle if: You are a solo budget traveler heading to northern Quito, have plenty of time, and your accommodation is near the old airport area or accessible by local bus from there.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Quito Airport from the city center?
Mariscal Sucre Airport is about 45 km east of central Quito in Tababela. The drive takes 45-90 minutes depending on traffic. The airport was moved to this location in 2013 to replace the old airport in the middle of the city.
Is Uber available at Quito Airport?
Yes, Uber operates in Quito and serves the airport. Fares to the city center are $15-25. The pickup area is in the parking zone, not the arrivals lane. Some drivers cancel airport pickups, so be prepared to request a second ride.
How much is a taxi from Quito Airport to the city?
Official airport taxis charge $25-35 to central Quito depending on your exact destination. The fare is fixed and you receive a ticket at the taxi counter before getting into the car.
Is there a bus from Quito Airport to the city?
The Aeroservicios shuttle runs every 30 minutes to Parque Bicentenario (old airport site) for $8 per person. The ride takes about 45 minutes. From there, you need local transport to reach your final destination.
Should I worry about altitude sickness arriving in Quito?
Quito is at 2,850 meters. Many travelers feel some effects — shortness of breath, mild headache, fatigue. Take it easy on arrival, stay hydrated, and avoid heavy meals or alcohol for the first day. The airport is slightly lower than the city but still at significant altitude.
Is it safe to take a taxi from Quito Airport?
Official airport taxis from the counter in arrivals are safe and regulated. Avoid accepting rides from drivers who approach you in the terminal. Uber is also generally safe. Do not hail taxis on the highway outside the airport.
How do I get from Quito Airport to the historic center?
A taxi or transfer to Centro Historico costs $28-40 and takes 50-80 minutes depending on traffic. The shuttle bus goes to northern Quito, not directly to the historic center. A pre-booked transfer is the most direct option.
Can I get a transfer from Quito Airport to Otavalo?
Yes. Otavalo is about 90-120 minutes north of the airport. A private transfer costs $50-80. This is more practical than going into Quito and then heading north again, since the airport is already on the eastern side.
What currency do I need at Quito Airport?
Ecuador uses the US dollar as its official currency. You do not need to exchange money. ATMs at the airport dispense US dollars. Taxis and the shuttle bus accept cash in dollars. Small bills are useful as drivers may not have change for large notes.
How long does it take to get through immigration at Quito Airport?
Immigration at UIO is generally straightforward. Most travelers are processed in 15-30 minutes. During peak hours when multiple international flights arrive simultaneously, it can take up to 45 minutes. Have your passport and any required documents ready.
The main thing to know about Quito's airport is the distance. At 45 km from the city, this is not a quick hop — it is a proper journey, especially during rush hours. Plan your transport in advance, factor in traffic, and do not schedule anything for the first hour after your expected arrival time. The altitude is the other factor that catches people off guard. Take your first day easy, let your body adjust, and Quito will reward you with one of the most beautiful historic centers in South America.