How to get from Quito to Papallacta Hot Springs

Planning a soak at Papallacta Hot Springs from Quito? Here’s exactly how to get from the capital to the thermal pools, whether you prefer budget buses, private transfers, guided tours, or a scenic self-drive adventure.

At A Glance (Quito to Papallacta Hot Springs)

Mode	Duration	Best For
🚌 Bus (Terminal Quitumbe → Papallacta junction) + local taxi	~1.5–2.5h total (bus + taxi/walk)	Budget travelers, backpackers, light luggage
🏷️ Cost: ~US$4–10 per person (bus) + ~US$1–3 per car for the short uphill taxi. For pre-booked land transport options in Ecuador you can also » compare transfers.
🚕 Taxi / Ride-hailing / Private Transfer (Quito or UIO → Termas Papallacta)	~1–1.5h door-to-door	Fastest, small groups, lots of luggage
🏷️ Cost: ~US$35–100 per car depending on pickup point and vehicle. You can pre-book fixed-price rides via 12Go taxi transfers, global services like GetTransfer, or airport pickups with Welcome Pickups, or request on-demand rides through apps such as Uber, Didi, or inDrive.
🧭 Guided Day Tour (Hotel pickup → Papallacta Hot Springs)	~7–10h round trip (incl. spa time)	Hassle-free day trips, English-speaking guide
🏷️ Cost: ~US$60–150 per person depending on inclusions. Browse small-group and private tours on GetYourGuide or check Papallacta day trips on Trip.com.
🚗 Self-drive (Rental car or motorcycle)	~1–1.5h each way	Flexible itineraries, scenic stops en route
🏷️ Cost: Car rentals from ~US$40–70/day from Quito or UIO plus fuel and tolls; motorbikes often more. Compare car rentals at Quito Airport on Booking.com Cars or look at motorcycle and bike options around Quito via BikesBooking.

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

• Fastest & most convenient: Choose Option #2 – Taxi / Ride-hailing / Private Transfer if you value comfort, are short on time, or are coming straight from Quito Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO).
• Cheapest: Option #1 – Direct Bus + local taxi is usually the most economical, ideal for backpackers and independent travelers who don’t mind basic comfort.
• Most hassle-free day trip: If you want everything arranged (hotel pickup, tickets, guide), Option #3 – Guided Day Tour is the easiest, especially if you don’t speak Spanish.
• Most scenic & flexible: Confident drivers who want to stop at viewpoints, short hikes, or nearby villages will love Option #4 – Self-drive.
• Overnighters & spa-lovers: If you plan to stay at the resort itself, any option that drops you directly at Termas de Papallacta (Options #2–4) is extra convenient.

How to Book and Practical Tips

• Booking buses: Tickets from Quito to Papallacta are typically bought in cash at Terminal Terrestre Quitumbe on the day of travel. Arrive 20–30 minutes early to choose your departure. Schedules can change, so ask staff which window sells tickets for Papallacta / Baeza / Tena and confirm the next departure time.
• Booking transfers & taxis online: For peace of mind, you can pre-book a private transfer or taxi between Quito/UIO and Papallacta through platforms like 12Go, GetTransfer, or airport-focused services such as Welcome Pickups. On the ground, ride-hailing apps including Uber, Didi, and inDrive are commonly used in Quito for negotiating rides.
• Booking tours: To avoid language barriers and manage everything in one place, you can reserve Papallacta day trips and combo tours (for example Cotopaxi + Papallacta) via GetYourGuide, or browse additional spa tours and tickets on Trip.com. Keen deal hunters can also search for “Papallacta” packages on Klook.
• Stays in Quito and Papallacta: For the night before or after your soak, compare hotels in Quito’s Centro Histórico or La Mariscal neighborhoods via Booking.com, and consider staying directly at the hot-springs resort using the dedicated page for Termas de Papallacta.
• Car or motorbike rentals: If you prefer driving, browse car-rental options at UIO and in the city on Booking.com Cars, or look into scooter and motorbike rentals in Quito via BikesBooking (experienced riders only; mountain weather and fog can be challenging).
• Luggage storage: Doing Papallacta on a long layover or between hotel check-in/out times? Store your bags in Quito near key neighborhoods with services like Radical Storage so you can enjoy the thermal pools hands-free.
• Altitude and weather: Papallacta sits at roughly 3,300 m. Even if Quito already feels high, the hot springs can be cooler and mistier, so pack warm layers, a rain jacket, and sandals for walking between pools. Take it slow if you’re not yet acclimatized.
• What to bring: Swimsuit, quick-dry towel (or budget for towel rental), flip-flops, a waterproof phone pouch for photos, and a change of clothes. The resort restaurants and cafés are casual but warm clothing is welcome after sunset.

🚌 Option #1 — Direct Bus (Most Popular, Good Value)

Low cost Frequent departures Basic comfort

• Overview: Take an intercity bus from Terminal Terrestre Quitumbe in south Quito towards Papallacta / Baeza / Tena. Ask the driver to drop you at the Papallacta junction, then take a short taxi or walk up to Termas de Papallacta.
• Travel time: Around 1.5–2h from Quitumbe to the Papallacta turn-off, plus 10–15 minutes by taxi (or ~45 minutes walking uphill) to the resort.
• How to book (with price): No online booking is usually needed; simply buy a same-day ticket at the relevant ticket window in Quitumbe. Expect roughly US$4–10 per person for the bus and US$1–3 for the final shared taxi from the junction up to the hot springs.
• Pros: Cheapest way to reach Papallacta; very frequent departures; immersive local experience.
• Cons: Less comfortable than private transfers; may involve standing in peak times; signage and announcements are mostly in Spanish; final stretch requires a taxi or an uphill walk.
• Official info: For an overview of Quito’s integrated bus system and terminals (including Quitumbe), check the city’s transport operator site at pasajeros.quito.gob.ec. For current spa services and opening hours, see the official Termas de Papallacta website.

Step-by-step: Bus from Quito to Papallacta

1. Reach Terminal Terrestre Quitumbe. From central Quito, you can use the Trolebús/Ecovía lines or the metro to connect south toward Quitumbe, or take a city taxi / Uber / Didi / inDrive directly to the terminal. Allow extra time during rush hour.
2. Find the right ticket counter. Inside the terminal, look for windows selling tickets to Papallacta, Baeza, or Tena. Ask “¿Pasa por Papallacta?” to confirm the bus stops there.
3. Buy your ticket in cash. Purchase a one-way ticket for the next departure and keep it handy, as bus staff may check it more than once.
4. Board and store your luggage. Larger bags usually go in the under-bus compartment; keep valuables with you. Choose a seat on the right-hand side heading out of Quito for more mountain views.
5. Ask to be dropped at Papallacta. Tell the driver or assistant early on that you are going to Papallacta. They will usually call out the stop when you reach the junction on the main highway.
6. Connect to the resort. From the roadside stop, take a local taxi up to Termas de Papallacta (or another spa in town), or walk up the paved road if you are acclimatized and the weather is good.
7. Return trip: Walk or taxi back down to the junction and flag a return bus toward Quito. Ask staff to confirm if they go to Quitumbe and what time the last buses pass in the evening.

Getting to the main embarking points (Terminal Quitumbe & central Quito)

• From Centro Histórico: Use Quito’s Trolebús / Ecovía lines or metro connections heading south, or hail a licensed yellow taxi or ride-hailing car directly to Terminal Terrestre Quitumbe. Allow ~30–60 minutes depending on traffic.
• From La Mariscal / La Carolina: Take a north–south bus or metro line to connect toward Quitumbe, or use Uber, Didi, inDrive, or a street taxi if you’re carrying luggage or traveling in a group.
• From Quito Airport (UIO): Either take an airport bus or taxi into the city and then onward to Quitumbe, or consider switching to Option #2 – Taxi / Private Transfer to go directly from UIO to Papallacta instead of zig-zagging via the city.
• Terminal facilities: Quitumbe has basic services, food stalls and ticket counters. Keep an eye on your belongings and arrive with small bills for tickets and snacks.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚕 Option #2 — Taxi / Ride-hailing / Private Transfer (Fastest Door-to-door)

Door-to-door Fastest Higher cost

• Overview: A private car makes the ~67 km ride east from Quito to Papallacta in around an hour, following the scenic highway toward the Andes and Cayambe-Coca National Park. Your driver can drop you right at the entrance to Termas de Papallacta or your chosen spa / lodge.
• Travel time: Typically 1–1.5 hours from central Quito or the airport, depending on traffic and weather (fog and rain can slow things down).
• How to book (with price):
  • Street taxis & ride-hailing: Licensed yellow taxis in Quito or app-based rides (Uber, Didi, inDrive) commonly quote around US$20–40 from the city and more from the airport, but prices can vary by demand and negotiation.
  • Pre-booked transfers: For fixed prices and an English-speaking driver, search Quito–Papallacta transfers on 12Go or arrange a private car through GetTransfer. From the airport, you can also arrange meet-and-greet pickups through Welcome Pickups.
  • Airport taxis: Official airport taxis operate 24/7 at UIO with regulated rates; check the airport’s own transport page at aeropuertoquito.aero and agree the fare to Papallacta before departure.
• Pros: Fast and comfortable; no need to transfer between bus and taxi; good for groups, families, or travelers with large luggage.
• Cons: More expensive than the bus, especially for solo travelers; you’ll want to confirm whether the return is included or arrange your way back in advance.

Step-by-step: Taxi / Private Transfer from Quito or UIO

1. Decide your pickup point. Choose whether you want to depart from your hotel in Quito (Centro Histórico, La Mariscal, La Carolina, etc.) or directly from Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport (UIO).
2. Get a quote. Compare prices on platforms like 12Go, GetTransfer, or Welcome Pickups, or check your ride-hailing apps to see the estimated fare for “Termas de Papallacta”.
3. Confirm the destination. Tell your driver clearly that you want to go to Termas de Papallacta (not just the village), unless you are booked at a different specific spa or lodge.
4. Drive via the main highway. Most drivers follow the main route east through the mountains; sit back and enjoy the scenery, and keep a light jacket handy as the temperature drops.
5. Arrive & pay. At the resort entrance, pay in cash or card depending on what you agreed beforehand. For app-based rides, verify the amount in the app before confirming payment.
6. Plan your return. Either keep the same driver for a round trip, organize a pickup time, or arrange a new taxi / transfer from Papallacta back to Quito later in the day.

Getting to the main embarking points (Hotels & Airport)

• From Quito hotels: Ask reception to call a trusted taxi, or request an Uber, Didi, or inDrive directly to your hotel entrance. Show or send the driver the pin for Termas de Papallacta.
• From Quito Airport (UIO): After exiting arrivals, follow signs for the official taxi rank or meet your pre-booked Welcome Pickups or GetTransfer driver at the designated meeting point. If you prefer ride-hailing, you can request an Uber or similar once you have Wi-Fi or a local SIM.
• From bus / metro stations: If you’re arriving in Quito by bus or metro, consider switching to taxi or ride-hailing first, then continuing directly to Papallacta rather than making additional local bus transfers.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🧭 Option #3 — Guided Day Tour from Quito (Most Hassle-free)

All-in-one Hotel pickup Per-person pricing

• Overview: Join a full-day excursion that includes pickup in Quito, transport to Papallacta, time in the hot springs, and sometimes short hikes or birdwatching stops on the way.
• Travel time: Most tours last 7–10 hours door-to-door, with flexible time in the pools plus scenic/photo stops.
• How to book (with price):
  • Standard group tours often range from ~US$60–120 per person depending on group size and inclusions (entrance, meals, extra activities).
  • Browse and compare itineraries on GetYourGuide (search for Papallacta Hot Springs from Quito), or look at Papallacta hot springs day tours and combo trips on Trip.com’s Papallacta tour listings.
  • Some operators offer hotel pickups only from select neighborhoods (La Mariscal, La Carolina, Historic Center), so check the pickup map carefully before booking.
• Pros: Easiest option for first-time visitors; no language barrier; a guide explains nature and culture; logistics (transport, timing, sometimes lunch) are handled for you.
• Cons: Less freedom with timing; more expensive than the bus; you share the vehicle/pools with a group unless you pay for a private tour.

Step-by-step: Joining a Papallacta Day Tour

1. Compare itineraries. Decide whether you prefer a pure hot-springs day or a combo tour (for example Papallacta plus hummingbird reserve or Cotopaxi). Read what’s included (entrance fees, lunch, towels) on platforms such as GetYourGuide or Trip.com.
2. Check pickup and language. Confirm the pickup zones (hotel door vs central meeting point) and guiding language (often English / Spanish).
3. Book online. Reserve your preferred date and pay online. Save your voucher or QR code on your phone in case you have limited connectivity on the day.
4. Prepare for the day. Pack your swimsuit, towel, sandals, warm layers, sunscreen and a waterproof jacket. Confirm the exact pickup time the day before.
5. Enjoy the ride. On the day, be ready 10–15 minutes early. The guide usually shares facts about Quito, the Andes and Cayambe-Coca National Park during the drive.
6. Soak & relax. Once at the hot springs, follow the guide’s instructions on where to store your belongings, how long to stay in each pool, and meeting times for the return to Quito.

Getting to the main embarking points (Tour meeting spots)

• Hotel pickup zones: Many tours include pickup from main hotel areas such as La Mariscal, La Carolina, La Floresta, and the Historic Center. If your hotel is outside these neighborhoods, you may be asked to meet at a central point.
• Central meeting points: Some operators use well-known locations like parks or plazas. The exact meeting point will be shown on your booking voucher (for example when booking via GetYourGuide, Klook, or Trip.com).
• Getting there: Use a short Uber, Didi, inDrive, or hotel-called taxi ride to the meeting point if it is not within easy walking distance.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚗 Option #4 — Self-drive Rental Car or Motorbike (Most Flexible & Scenic)

Maximum flexibility Scenic route Mountain driving

• Overview: Rent a car or, for experienced riders, a motorbike in Quito or at UIO and drive yourself to Papallacta via the main highway into the Andes. This lets you stop at viewpoints, short trails, or small villages along the way.
• Travel time: Around 1–1.5 hours each way depending on traffic and weather. The road is paved but can be foggy and wet, especially in the afternoons.
• How to book (with price):
  • Rental cars: Expect around US$40–70 per day for a basic car, plus fuel and tolls. Compare offers from multiple companies at Quito city locations or at the airport through Booking.com’s UIO car-rental page or city-wide listings on Booking.com Cars in Quito.
  • Motorcycles and scooters: Confident riders can compare motorbike and scooter rentals in Quito (including helmets, luggage racks and basic insurance) through BikesBooking. Keep in mind that high altitude, curves, and changeable weather make this best suited to experienced riders.
• Pros: Total flexibility with departure time and stops; easier to combine Papallacta with other destinations such as Antisana or the Amazon foothills; great for couples or small groups comfortable with driving.
• Cons: You must be comfortable driving in mountain conditions; parking and insurance are your responsibility; not ideal if you’re very tired from a long-haul flight.
• Official info: For updated information on Ecuador’s roads and tourism areas, you can check national tourism resources such as the country’s official travel portal ecuador.travel, and consult your rental company’s advice on current road conditions.

Step-by-step: Self-drive from Quito or UIO to Papallacta

1. Pick up your vehicle. Collect your car or motorbike at the agreed rental office in Quito or at Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport. Check that you have insurance, emergency contact numbers, and a spare tire.
2. Set your navigation. Input “Termas de Papallacta” or the GPS coordinates into Google Maps or your preferred navigation app before you leave the city where signal is strongest.
3. Follow the main highway. Head east out of Quito and follow the signs for Papallacta / Baeza. You’ll climb through Andean páramo, with potential fog, rain and cooler temperatures—drive cautiously, especially on curves.
4. Fuel & stops. Fill up before leaving Quito and consider stopping at viewpoints or cafés only where you can safely pull off the road.
5. Arrive and park. Follow signs to the parking area for Termas de Papallacta or your chosen spa. Check parking rules; resorts usually have on-site parking for guests and day visitors.
6. Return drive. It’s best to drive back to Quito before late evening or heavy fog. Plan your return around daylight where possible.

Getting to the main embarking points (Rental offices & airport)

• Quito Airport rentals: If your flight lands at UIO and you plan to drive directly, pick up your vehicle at the airport desks (bookable via Booking.com) and follow signage toward Papallacta.
• City-center rentals: Many rental agencies are located in or near La Mariscal and La Carolina. Reach them by taxi, Uber, Didi, or inDrive from your hotel, then start your drive east.
• Motorbike rentals: If renting a motorbike, allow time to pick up gear, check the bike thoroughly, and review the route with the rental staff before heading into the mountains.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Quito to Papallacta Hot Springs)

How long does it take to get from Quito to Papallacta Hot Springs?
Most travelers take around 1–1.5 hours by car or private transfer and roughly 1.5–2.5 hours using the bus from Terminal Quitumbe plus a short taxi up to the hot springs. Weather, traffic and road works can add extra time, so always build in a buffer—especially if you’re returning to catch a flight.

Do I need to book Termas de Papallacta in advance?
Advance booking is strongly recommended on weekends, holidays and during high season, especially if you want a private room or spa treatment. Day visitors may sometimes buy tickets on arrival, but capacity can be limited. Check availability and rates through the official Termas de Papallacta website or via hotel-booking platforms before you go.

Is it safe to travel independently from Quito to Papallacta?
Thousands of locals and visitors travel this route safely every year. As with any trip, use common-sense precautions: keep valuables out of sight, avoid flashing electronics on the bus, and prefer official taxis or well-rated ride-hailing drivers. At night or in poor weather, a reputable private transfer or guided tour is usually more comfortable than public transport.

Can I visit Papallacta as a day trip, or should I stay overnight?
Both are great options. A day trip gives you several hours in the pools plus mountain scenery; an overnight stay lets you enjoy quieter evening and early-morning soaks, when the air is crisp and the pools are less crowded. If your schedule allows, many visitors feel one night at the hot springs is ideal.

What should I bring and wear at the hot springs?
Bring a swimsuit, flip-flops, quick-dry towel, warm layers, and a rain jacket. The air can feel chilly when you get out of the water, so a hat and cozy clothes are welcome. Some pools require swim caps, and jewelry may discolor in the mineral water, so consider leaving valuables in a locker or hotel safe.