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General
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City Guide > South America > Ecuador > Quito | |
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Getting Around Public Transport There are buses in Quito but the service is often unreliable and erratic. The most efficient way of getting around on public transport is the trolley bus that runs 0600-2400 in a north-south direction through the city (tel: (02) 2665015). Taxis Taxis are cheap and safe, but radio taxis are recommended at night. Though it is illegal, many taxis do not use the meter at night and generally charge at least 50% more than during the day. If the driver says the meter is not working, negotiate a fee in advance. There are several companies including Taxi Amigo (tel: (02) 2222222), City Taxi (tel: (02) 2633333) and Central de Radio Taxis (tel: (02) 2500600). Car Hire To hire a car in Ecuador drivers must be over 21 years old and there may be a surcharge to under-25s. Although smaller rental companies may be cheaper, it is safer to use one of the larger, international car hire companies, as smaller ones often do not have good insurance cover – or in some cases reliable cars. Payment is generally by credit card though there may be discounts for cash. Check the insurance policy carefully – there is often an excess to be paid in the case of an accident. Always check the car’s condition, too, and keep it garaged overnight if possible. Most of the roads around Quito are good but always exercise caution when driving in Ecuador as the locals have a tendency to be reckless. Major providers at the airport include: Avis (tel: (02) 2440270; website: www.avis.com), Budget (tel: (02) 2459052; website: www.budget.com) and Hertz (tel: (02) 2254257; website: www.hertz.com). In town, providers include Sixt (tel: (02) 2549345; website: www.e-sixt.com). Bicycle & Scooter Hire Sobre Ruedas (tel: (02) 2416781) hires bicycles. The Biking Dutchman (tel: (02) 2542806) offer cycling tours as well as renting bicycles. |