Overview
Quito, Ecuador's high-altitude capital, sits at more than 2,800 metres in the Andes and boasts one of the best-preserved historic centres in the Americas. UK travellers come for its colonial charm, the surrounding volcanoes, and as a launch point for the Galápagos Islands and the Amazon. The city is served by Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO), Ecuador's principal gateway. Comparing fares in one place makes finding the right flight to Quito quick and simple.
Best time to fly to Quito
Sitting on the equator, Quito enjoys a spring-like climate all year, so weather is more about wet and dry than hot and cold. The drier season runs from June to September, with clearer skies ideal for sightseeing, while a shorter dry spell often falls around December–January. The wetter months bring afternoon showers but fewer crowds. Fares tend to ease outside the UK summer and Christmas holidays — check the price charts on this page for the cheapest dates.
Airlines and routes
There are no direct flights from the UK to Quito, so journeys connect through a European or North American hub. Popular options include Iberia (via Madrid), KLM (via Amsterdam), Air France (via Paris) and American Airlines or United (via US hubs such as Miami or Houston). Total journey time from London is typically 15–19 hours depending on the connection, and travellers from Manchester or other UK cities usually route via one of these hubs. Comparing carriers for your exact dates is the surest way to secure the lowest fare.
Things to do in Quito
Quito rewards visitors with colonial splendour and dramatic Andean scenery:
- Old Town (Centro Histórico): a UNESCO-listed maze of churches, plazas and colonial mansions.
- La Compañía de Jesús: a breathtaking baroque church lavishly decorated in gold leaf.
- TelefériQo cable car: a ride up Pichincha volcano for panoramic views over the city.
- Mitad del Mundo: the ‘Middle of the World’ monument marking the equator, just north of the city.
- El Panecillo: a hilltop crowned by the winged Virgin of Quito statue, overlooking the Old Town.
At Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO)
Quito's modern airport lies about 18 km east of the city centre in the Tababela valley, with duty-free shopping, currency exchange, ATMs and dining. Official taxis, shared shuttles and airport buses connect to the city, though the journey can take around 45 minutes to an hour depending on traffic. Ride-hailing apps also operate in Quito.
Top tips for finding cheap flights to Quito
- Book roughly 2–4 months ahead for long-haul value — last-minute fares to Quito are usually higher.
- Avoid the UK summer and Christmas peaks; the shoulder weeks bring noticeably lower prices.
- Be flexible with your dates — midweek departures are often cheaper than weekends.
- Compare hubs; a connection via Madrid, Amsterdam or a US city can vary a good deal in price.
Travel essentials
- UK passport holders do not need a visa for short tourist stays in Ecuador — entry is granted on arrival for visits of up to 90 days.
- No vaccinations are mandatory, but a yellow fever jab is advised if visiting the Amazon region; keep routine UK jabs up to date.
- The local currency is the US dollar (USD), which Ecuador uses officially.
