Mariscal Sucre International Airport
Airport Airport
Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) serves Quito from its location in Tababela east of the city. It is the main international gateway for Quito and operates a single consolidated passenger terminal serving international and domestic flights. The airport is located at high elevation compared with many other capitals, which affects aircraft performance and passenger acclimatisation.
Terminal Guide for Mariscal Sucre International Airport (Quito) #
The airport uses a single modern terminal building that handles check‑in, security, immigration and baggage reclaim in a single flow. Departures airside contain duty‑free, retail and food options; gates are organised for domestic and international flights within the same terminal. Walking distances are moderate and signage is in Spanish and English in key areas.
Getting to and From Mariscal Sucre International Airport (Quito) #
The airport is located east of Quito in Tababela; travel time to the city centre is typically around 45-60 minutes by road, depending on traffic.
- Airport shuttle/bus: Regular shuttle services and airport coaches run between the airport and central Quito or major hotels; these offer an economical option.
- Taxi: Official airport taxis and pre‑booked transfers are available outside arrivals and provide door‑to‑door service; expect the journey to take 45-60 minutes.
- Ride‑share: App‑based services operate in Quito and can be used from the airport where permitted.
- Driving: Car hire desks are located in the terminal; roads to the city are well maintained but can be congested during peak hours.
Facilities, Shopping, and Dining at Mariscal Sucre International Airport (Quito) #
The terminal provides a full set of passenger amenities including cafes and restaurants, duty‑free shopping on international departures, and several retail outlets. Free Wi‑Fi is generally available with possible time limits; charging points are provided in seating areas. Airline lounges and pay‑in lounge options exist for international travellers. Luggage storage/day‑use facilities are available at some hotels nearby; inquire at information desks for options. Accessibility services are provided on request.
Hotels and Layovers at Mariscal Sucre International Airport (Quito) #
There are several hotels and guesthouses in the Tababela area close to the airport as well as many options in Quito city centre; some hotels offer airport shuttles or paid transfers. For overnight stays between flights look for properties advertising airport shuttles or day‑use rooms. Search parent sites like [marriott.com] or [accor.com] for branded options.
Tips for Mariscal Sucre International Airport #
- Quito’s airport sits at high altitude; if you’re arriving from low altitude take it easy for the first 24 hours to reduce altitude effects.
- Allow at least 45-60 minutes to reach central Quito by taxi - traffic and road distance from Tababela can make journeys longer than expected.
- Use official taxi ranks or pre‑booked airport transfers rather than unmetered street taxis for a fixed fare into the city.
Weather & Climate near Mariscal Sucre International Airport #
Mariscal Sucre International Airport's climate is classified as Warm-Summer Mediterranean - Warm-Summer Mediterranean climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 9°C to 23°C. Moderate rainfall (759 mm/year) with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (48 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is the coolest month with highs of 22°C and lows of 10°C. Regular rainfall (88 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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March
March is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 10°C. Regular rainfall (100 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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April
April is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 10°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (120 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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May
May is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (66 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 9°C. Moderate rainfall (30 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 9°C. The driest month with just 9 mm and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is cool with highs of 23°C and lows of 9°C. Light rainfall and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 23°C and lows of 9°C. Moderate rainfall (57 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 9°C. Regular rainfall (84 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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November
November is the coolest month with highs of 22°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (77 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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December
December is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (61 mm) and mostly overcast skies.