Question 1

Is Quito Safe? My Essential 2026 Safety Advice

Accepted Answer

Safety is the number one concern for backpackers arriving in the Ecuadorian capital. Sitting at a high altitude with crowded public transport networks, Quito requires a bit of street smarts to navigate successfully. My real, honest experience was very positive, but you do need to watch out for pickpockets

Always stick to Uber to move around after sunset, especially when going back to your hostel from a night out or the old town. Keep your backpack on your front when walking through busy squares like Plaza Grande and do not get your expensive phone or camera out on the street. If you are street smart and listen to local advice, you will have a perfectly safe and fun trip using this Quito travel guide!

Question 2

How to get there?

Accepted Answer

If you are flying into Ecuador you will land at Mariscal Sucre International Airport, located around 45 minutes outside the city centre. The cheapest way to reach the main backpacker hubs is by taking the public airport bus to Rio Coca Terminal then switching to the local trolleybus system. I personally recommend using Uber as it is a lot easier, especially after a long flight. Uber is surprisingly affordable and you can always message in the Hostelworld group chat to try split the fare with someone else arriving at the same time.

Question 3

Border Crossing from Colombia

Accepted Answer

If you are doing the popular overland backpacking route coming down from Colombia you will cross the border at the Rumichaca bridge. While some people make the long trip straight from Bogota, the most popular option is to break up the journey by starting in Cali, the famous salsa dancing city.

When booking your transport, you have two choices. The first option is my personal preference and suggestion. You can use Busbud to buy a ticket taking you from Cali straight to Quito. Just keep in mind that even with a single ticket, you still must get off the bus at the border with your bags to get your passport exit and entry stamps on foot before getting on a connecting partner bus on the Ecuador side.

Alternatively, to save money, you can book the legs completely on your own. Simply take a cheap local bus from Cali to the Ipiales terminal, hop in a quick taxi to the bridge, walk across the border and take a 10 minute shared taxi to the Tulcan bus terminal. From Tulcan, local public buses leave for the capital all day long. Whether you choose a single ticket or do it yourself, your bus will drop you at Carcelen Terminal in north Quito. From there, you can easily grab a local bus or a cheap taxi straight to the historic centre.

Question 4

Where to stay in Quito for first timers

Accepted Answer

For first time visitors and budget backpackers reading this Quito travel guide, there is only one place you should consider booking: The Secret Garden Quito. Located right on the edge of the historic Old Town, this famous hostel is the best place to stay. The standout feature is their rooftop terrace which has panoramic sunset views over the city, amazing cocktails and massive family style dinners that make making friends completely effortless.

The hostel also has a travel agency, which is where I booked my equator day trip and my trip to Cotopaxi. Make sure to book your bed at least a few weeks in advance in high season as this hostel sells out often!

Question 5

Is Quito Safe? My Essential 2026 Safety Advice

Accepted Answer

Safety is the number one concern for backpackers arriving in the Ecuadorian capital. Sitting at a high altitude with crowded public transport networks, Quito requires a bit of street smarts to navigate successfully. My real, honest experience was very positive, but you do need to watch out for pickpockets

Always stick to Uber to move around after sunset, especially when going back to your hostel from a night out or the old town. Keep your backpack on your front when walking through busy squares like Plaza Grande and do not get your expensive phone or camera out on the street. If you are street smart and listen to local advice, you will have a perfectly safe and fun trip using this Quito travel guide!

Question 6

How to get there?

Accepted Answer

If you are flying into Ecuador you will land at Mariscal Sucre International Airport, located around 45 minutes outside the city centre. The cheapest way to reach the main backpacker hubs is by taking the public airport bus to Rio Coca Terminal then switching to the local trolleybus system. I personally recommend using Uber as it is a lot easier, especially after a long flight. Uber is surprisingly affordable and you can always message in the Hostelworld group chat to try split the fare with someone else arriving at the same time.

Question 7

Border Crossing from Colombia

Accepted Answer

If you are doing the popular overland backpacking route coming down from Colombia you will cross the border at the Rumichaca bridge. While some people make the long trip straight from Bogota, the most popular option is to break up the journey by starting in Cali, the famous salsa dancing city.

When booking your transport, you have two choices. The first option is my personal preference and suggestion. You can use Busbud to buy a ticket taking you from Cali straight to Quito. Just keep in mind that even with a single ticket, you still must get off the bus at the border with your bags to get your passport exit and entry stamps on foot before getting on a connecting partner bus on the Ecuador side.

Alternatively, to save money, you can book the legs completely on your own. Simply take a cheap local bus from Cali to the Ipiales terminal, hop in a quick taxi to the bridge, walk across the border and take a 10 minute shared taxi to the Tulcan bus terminal. From Tulcan, local public buses leave for the capital all day long. Whether you choose a single ticket or do it yourself, your bus will drop you at Carcelen Terminal in north Quito. From there, you can easily grab a local bus or a cheap taxi straight to the historic centre.

Question 8

Where to stay in Quito for first timers

Accepted Answer

For first time visitors and budget backpackers reading this Quito travel guide, there is only one place you should consider booking: The Secret Garden Quito. Located right on the edge of the historic Old Town, this famous hostel is the best place to stay. The standout feature is their rooftop terrace which has panoramic sunset views over the city, amazing cocktails and massive family style dinners that make making friends completely effortless.

The hostel also has a travel agency, which is where I booked my equator day trip and my trip to Cotopaxi. Make sure to book your bed at least a few weeks in advance in high season as this hostel sells out often!

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