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Transportation TAXIS There are two international airports in Ecuador--Quito (the Andes) and Guayaquil (the coast). When arriving in Quito, expect to pay $5-$10. for a taxi to the new city where most of the tourist hotels are located. Generally, "taxistas" in Ecuador are pretty honest and friendly. Ones that sit in front of the first class hotels will charge a bit more. For long trips, it's always good to hire a newer car and one that doesn't have an odor of gas inside (which means a bad exhaust system, and a headache for you). Here in Otavalo, Taxis will charge about $10. per hour, and we have gotten very fair rates for people going to Banos or the Coast. Many times it's much cheaper to hire a taxi by the day than to actually rent a car yourself or pay a 4X4 tour company, with guide (some places do not require a guide and you can always be sure that your taxi driver will have alot to say, and may speak a little English). Taxis in Quito have meters, though they are not always used. Establish a price first if the taxi has no meter. Ask at the hotel what a particular trip should cost. Taxi fares within the city of Quito are very inexpensive compared to North American standards. Also, there is an efficient electric trolly system in Quito that runs north and south. It's fast and easy, but beware of thieves. CAR RENTAL Renting a car and driving yourself should be only for the adventurous and experienced who have some extra money to spend. Expect to spend at least $50 per day. Driving in developing countries can be barbaric at times. If you do rent, check the contract well and make sure you understand all charges and check the car well, for spare tires, jacks, and working windshield wipers. You should choose hotels that have secure garages as you can't leave the car on the street at night! Avoid driving at night! And drive defensively! Bring a valid driver's license with photo, and if possible, an international driver's license, easily obtained through Triple A in the U.S. You will be expected to present it at the many roadblocks in Ecuador. Don't be afraid or intimidated by the routine police checks in Ecuador; they only wish to see your documents. Always be friendly; a smile will get you all the cooperation you need. While you are driving, ignore anyone on the highway who tries to motion you over to stop. This is a dangerous scam to extort money from you or rob you. Quito has a number of car rental agencies, including the three international companies, Avis, Budget and Hertz. The procedures for reporting an accident are somewhat hazy, but everyone agrees that you must report to the nearest police station as soon as possible. The police will try to decide and divide the fault, but almost always, the foreigner will end up paying. BUSES Buses are an excellent way to "see the country" and can be considered an "anthropological experience." They will always take longer but cost practically nothing. It's not a good idea to put your bags in the back luggage compartment of the bus. |