Getting Around Ecuador

Internal Travel

When it comes to getting around mainland Ecuador, we take care of all the logistics so your journey is smooth and stress-free. For longer distances — such as reaching the Galapagos or the Amazon — we typically include domestic flights.

Within the Andean highlands, we arrange comfortable private transfers with a trusted English speaking driver/guide, giving you the flexibility to stop at scenic viewpoints, small villages, or local markets along the way.

It’s all part of creating a relaxed, well-paced itinerary that lets you enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

Domestic Flights:

• Regular flights connect major cities like Quito, Guayaquil, and Cuenca – we will always include any domestic flights in our quotes
• All visits to the Galapagos require flights from either Quito or Guayaquil – these will be included in your quote too. If you opt for a cruise, the flights to the islands have to be bought through the cruise operator.
• Primary domestic airlines that we sue: LATAM Ecuador and Avianca Ecuador.
• Domestic flights are relatively affordable but enquire early for the Galapagos, as flights connecting the islands to the mainland get fully booked quickly!

Car:

• When travelling around Ecuador by land,  you will be driven by a driver/guide who will accompany throughout, even on multi-day trips, so they will get to know and you them. Our guides are bilingual and very knowledgeable about their country, so they will provide you with great service and unforgettable adventures.
• We include private cars for all airport transfers in mainland Ecuador.
• You can choose a self-drive holiday but if you don’t have a lot of time, we think going around with a driver/guide is the best option. You can ask us about self-driving holidays in Ecuador and we will give you our recommendations.

Buses:

• Ecuador has an extensive and inexpensive bus network, however, we rarely include this option in our holidays as it is not time effective

Taxis & Rideshare:

• Taxis are plentiful in cities and generally inexpensive
• Always use official taxis (yellow with orange number plates)
• Agree on the fare before departing or insist on using the meter
• Uber operates in Quito and Guayaquil

Getting Around the Galapagos

• Island Hopping: Public speedboats connect Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, and Isabela. If you choose an island hopping itinerary, we will include all the logistics, so leave all the hard work to us and enjoy stress free planning!
• Water Taxis: Small boats ferry passengers between docks and ships. If you choose a cruise itinerary, we will get you from the dock to your dream boat, you can rely on us to take care of all the finer details.
• Cruises: Most exploration is done via cruise ships that travel between islands overnight. We can offer a vast array of boats to suits all your needs and preferences. We have been there and done that, so we can give the best advice for you to have a once in your life holiday.
• Taxis: Some of our hotels can be outside of the towns, so if you need a taxi to take you to that recommended restaurant, they are available on the inhabited islands.
• Small aircrafts: looking for an exclusive way to move in between islands? You can take small planes that accommodate between 5 and 9 passengers to fly between the 3 main islands: Santa Cruz, Isabela and San Cristobal.

When you book with Fleewinter we will take care of everything

So you don’t have to worry about how to get from A to B — we’ve got it all covered. This is the beauty of booking with a reputable tour operator like us. We do the heavy lifting: coordinating flights, transfers, hotels, and excursions to ensure everything fits together seamlessly.

You won’t need to spend hours researching connections or juggling bookings with different providers. Instead, you’ll travel with confidence, knowing every detail has been carefully thought through. All you need to do is relax and enjoy the adventure.

Get in touch so we can start planning your Ecuador and Galapagos adventure!

This guide was created by Val, specialist in tailor-made Ecuador and Galapagos adventures.