Should I fly into Quito or Guayaquil?

Fly into Quito if you are heading to the highlands or the Amazon. Fly into Guayaquil if you are sticking to the coast or want an easier transit to the Galápagos.

Are there direct flights from Europe?

Yes, but they are limited. KLM flies to Quito via Guayaquil, and Iberia offers direct flights from Madrid to Quito.

Do I need travel insurance?

Ecuador technically requires proof of health insurance for entry, though it is rarely checked. Always carry a digital copy of your policy.

How to Book Flights to Ecuador

To get the best price for flights to Ecuador, book 3 to 4 months in advance and prioritize flights arriving at Quito (UIO) rather than Guayaquil (GYE) if you plan on visiting the Andes or the Amazon. Use tools like Google Flights to track price fluctuations, as direct flights are limited and often expensive.

Choose your primary hub. Decide between Quito (UIO) and Guayaquil (GYE). UIO is better for mountains, cloud forests, and the northern Amazon. GYE is better for coastal beaches and is the mandatory transfer point for flights to the Galápagos Islands.
Use price tracking. Set a price alert on Google Flights for your specific dates. Do this at least 120 days before your intended departure to identify the 'sweet spot' price for your specific origin city.
Check airline alliances. Most major flights to Ecuador arrive via American Airlines (oneworld), United (Star Alliance), or Delta (SkyTeam). If you have points, look for partner availability on Avianca or LATAM, which dominate domestic and regional connections.
Book the long-haul separately from domestic. If you are flying to the Galápagos, book your international flight to Quito or Guayaquil first. Book your domestic leg to the islands separately as a 'multi-city' or distinct ticket; it is often cheaper and safer if your international flight is delayed.

Should I fly into Quito or Guayaquil?: Fly into Quito if you are heading to the highlands or the Amazon. Fly into Guayaquil if you are sticking to the coast or want an easier transit to the Galápagos.
Are there direct flights from Europe?: Yes, but they are limited. KLM flies to Quito via Guayaquil, and Iberia offers direct flights from Madrid to Quito.
Do I need travel insurance?: Ecuador technically requires proof of health insurance for entry, though it is rarely checked. Always carry a digital copy of your policy.