Private transfer
Cuenca to Guayaquil Transportation
Over the Cajas highlands and down to the coast, to Guayaquil Airport, your hotel or the port.
- Distance
- About 195 km
- Drive time
- 3.5 to 4 hours
- Highest point
- Tres Cruces, 4,160 m
- Drop-off
- Airport, hotel, port or terminal
The road from Cuenca to Guayaquil is one of the most dramatic drives in Ecuador. In about four hours you leave the colonial city at 2,560 m, climb through Cajas National Park to the Tres Cruces pass at more than 4,100 m, and then drop through cloud forest and banana farms to the warm coast.
Our driver picks you up at your hotel or Airbnb in Cuenca and takes you straight to Guayaquil Airport, your hotel, the bus terminal or the port. No shared van, no stops for other passengers, and you leave at the time that suits your flight.
The climb and the drop
Elevation along the road, in meters.
Plan your departure around your flight
For a flight out of Guayaquil, we usually suggest leaving Cuenca five to six hours before departure. That covers the drive, possible fog on Cajas and check-in time. Tell us your flight and we confirm the pickup time with you.
Make a stop in Cajas
The lagoons of Cajas are right on the way. A 20 to 30 minute stop for photos and fresh air at Laguna Llaviucu or Toreadora is easy to add. For a longer visit, ask about our Cuenca to Guayaquil with Cajas option, or the longer route via the Ingapirca ruins.
Your ears will notice
You go from over 4,000 m to sea level in a couple of hours. Chewing gum helps with the pressure, and if you are prone to motion sickness, take something before the curvy section after Molleturo.
What is included
- Private, insured vehicle
- Pickup and drop-off at your door
- Help with your luggage
- Air conditioning and clean seats
- Coffee, restroom and photo stops on request
- Free waiting time at airport arrivals
Vehicles
A vehicle for every group size
Rates are per vehicle, not per person. When you book, the calendar shows each option for your route with its exact price.
Sedan or SUV
Couples and small families
Van
Families and small groups
Large van
Groups with plenty of luggage
Minibus
Tour groups and weddings
Bus
Large groups and events
FAQ
Cuenca to Guayaquil questions
How long does it take to get from Cuenca to Guayaquil?
Between 3.5 and 4 hours by private transfer, depending on fog in Cajas and traffic entering Guayaquil.
Can you take me directly to Guayaquil Airport?
Yes. Most of our rides on this route end at José Joaquín de Olmedo Airport. Share your flight time and we plan the pickup with room to spare.
What is the best way to travel from Cuenca to Guayaquil?
A private transfer is the most comfortable option: door to door, your own schedule and stops when you want them. Buses are cheaper but leave from the terminal and do not go to the airport.
Is the price per person?
No, the price is per vehicle. A couple and a family of six each pay one rate for their vehicle size.
How do I pay?
You book online through WeTravel with any major card. A small deposit secures the ride, and you can pay the balance online up to 24 hours before or in cash to your driver.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancel for free up to 24 hours before pickup. Card processing fees may not be refundable.
What if my flight is late?
Send us your flight number and we follow it. Your driver adjusts the pickup time, no extra charge for normal delays.
More from Cuenca
Other rides from Cuenca
Cuenca Airport Transfer
Your driver waits at arrivals at Mariscal Lamar and drops you at your hotel door in the historic center.
Cuenca to Baños
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Cuenca to Puerto López
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Cuenca to Vilcabamba
South to the Valley of Longevity, a quiet town with a soft climate and green hills all around.
Cuenca to Alausí
Arrive in time for the Devil's Nose train, riding through high Andean farmland.
Cuenca to Salinas
Andes to the beach in one ride, straight to your resort on the Santa Elena peninsula.