There are many ways to travel around Ecuador, and it shouldn’t be too difficult to know what the most convenient way is. However, traveling safely is our main concern, and we offer you some advice that could allow you to save some time and travel in a more comfortable way.

Trolley Bus
Modern, safer and efficient, those large articulate buses run through exclusive ways and bus stops. The service is cheap (USD 0.25) and it runs along the city from one side to the other. Buses are new and the bus stops are well distributed in the city. This service exists in Quito and Guayaquil and runs from 5 a.m. to 12 a.m. in Quito, and from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. in Guayaquil.

City Bus
A good way to get anywhere in a big city, those buses are also cheap ($0.25) and run all day from 6 a.m. to usually 9 p.m. Even though it’s a popular way of moving around, it has some negative aspects. Comfort is not always guaranteed, as many of them are old buses. Bus drivers usually stop anywhere and don’t always respect the bus stops. In the late hours, it is also not the safest way to get around. We recommend not wearing flashy outfit or jewelry while riding them. Avoid overcrowded public transportation when possible.

Taxis
Taxis are a very popular way to move around in cities and operate 24 hours. In general, the service is good and cars are new. However, you will still find old ones that we won’t recommend you. All taxis have a taximeter, however not all of them use it. Before entering, we recommend you to negotiate the fee or ask for the taximeter. In Quito, taxis usually all use taximeters; however in Guayaquil it is not a common thing. An average ride will cost between $1,50 and $2 or more depending on the length of your ride, and sometimes more at night; however, they could charge extra money from the airport. Carry money in small denominations, so you have change for the taxi bill and don’t need a large note where you may not receive change. The safest way is to use a radio taxi, calling from a phone at your hotel.

Bus Lines
It is probably the cheapest way to travel through Ecuador. Each city has its own terminal, where you will find a huge offer of companies for any destination in the country with frequent departures to each one of the different provinces. It offers transportation where you can just jump on the next bus leaving to your destination. You may get anywhere in the country just by taking one or two buses. Costs may vary due to the distance and the quality of service. There are some express buses that won’t stop in any town until you get to your destination. Bus lines work 24 hours.

Trains
There is only one train track in the country, but it is one of the greatest ways to know the Ecuadorian Andes. Used as a tourist attraction rather than a transport system, it runs from North to South of the Andes, and goes through canyons and cliffs (such as the famous Devil’s Nose), offering spectacular views. A trip on board can be booked through Bambútravel.

Airplanes
Ecuador has one of the best domestic air transportation systems in the region. Main cities of Ecuador have their airports and are served by local air companies. Costs vary depending on distances and services. The longest flight inside Ecuador may take 45 minutes, with the exception of the Galápagos Islands which takes an hour and a half.

Cities with an international airport are Quito and Guayaquil. Upon leaving the country, you will have to pay an international airport tax of 26.00 USD in Guayaquil, and 38.00 USD in Quito. Cuenca, Manta, Coca and Esmeraldas each have a national airport.

Flying is one of the easiest and fastest ways to travel inside Ecuador. Flight tickets are not expensive and each city offers several flights to the same destinations on a daily basis.

Ecuador’s most important national flight companies are: LAN, Aerogal, Tame and Icaro.