Quito is a rewarding family destination, but the airport's distance from the city and the altitude require some planning when traveling with children.
Altitude and kids
This is the most important factor. Quito sits at 2,850 meters. Children can feel altitude effects just like adults — headaches, tiredness, loss of appetite, and irritability. Babies and toddlers may cry more than usual. Keep everyone hydrated, avoid rushing through the terminal, and take it easy on your first day.
Fixed-price private transfer
UIO Quito City Center
From€58for 2 passengers
4 passengers: €80 per vehicle, about €20 per person
- Fixed price, no meter
- Flight tracked
- 60 min free waiting
- Driver meets you at arrivals
- Free cancellation up to 24 h before pickup
Other destinations
The 45 km drive from the airport to the city descends slightly, which helps. But do not plan activities for arrival day. Let your family adjust.
At the airport
UIO is a modern terminal with clean restrooms, a few food outlets, and sufficient space. It is not particularly child-focused — there are no play areas or family lounges — but it is comfortable enough. ATMs and currency exchange are available in arrivals. Ecuador uses US dollars, so no money conversion is needed.
Child seats
Ecuador does not strictly enforce child seat requirements, but safety should still be your priority. Taxis and Uber vehicles will not have child seats. Private transfer companies can usually provide one if you request it at booking — confirm this explicitly before your trip.
Bringing a travel car seat from home is the most reliable option, especially for the 45-60 minute highway drive to the city. The Ruta Viva highway involves fast-moving traffic where a child seat matters.
The journey with kids
The drive is mostly highway — the Ruta Viva is a modern, divided road. It is smooth and comfortable. The views of the Andes valleys can be a nice distraction for older children. Traffic jams during rush hours mean sitting in the car for an extended period, so have entertainment and snacks ready.
Luggage
Families with young children often travel with extra gear. Standard taxis handle 2-3 suitcases. For a family with a pushchair, car seat, and multiple bags, request an SUV or minivan. The shuttle bus has limited luggage space and is not practical for families with heavy loads.
Best option for families
Book a private transfer with child seats confirmed in advance. The drive is long, the altitude adds stress, and having a reliable driver who meets you at arrivals and handles everything is worth the modest cost. Your family can focus on adjusting to the altitude rather than navigating transport logistics.
When a private transfer from UIO is the right choice
- Travelling with small children: child seats are requested at booking for the exact ages, so you are not relying on a taxi that may have none.
- Strollers, cots and luggage: a minivan takes everything in one go, door to door, with no stairs or platform changes.
- Three or more people: a 4-seat car to Quito City Center is from €80, about €20 per person, usually level with or below separate public-transport tickets once you count the walk, the wait and the last mile with bags.
UIO → Quito City Center from €58Fixed price, flight tracked, free cancellation up to 24 h before pickup.
Fixed-price private transfer
UIO Quito City Center
From€58for 2 passengers
4 passengers: €80 per vehicle, about €20 per person
- Fixed price, no meter
- Flight tracked
- 60 min free waiting
- Driver meets you at arrivals
- Free cancellation up to 24 h before pickup
Other destinations