City in Azuay, Ecuador
Getting around Cuenca
How to get around Cuenca
The center is compact and walkable; the Tranvía covers the main east–west axis, buses and taxis do the rest, and Uber or DiDi work as well.
Ways to get around Cuenca
| Option | Fare | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Tranvía de Cuenca | About $0.35 | Light-rail line from Parque Industrial through the center to Control Sur |
| City bus | About $0.30–0.35 | Dense network; pay the driver exact change |
| Taxi | About $2–5 | Metered; most trips in the center cost under $3 |
Ride-hailing apps in Cuenca
A 5 km ride costs about $2–5 ($2–5).
| App | Notes |
|---|---|
| Uber | Works across the city; fewer cars at night |
| DiDi | Often cheaper in the center |
| inDrive | Negotiate your own fare |
- Taxis here are metered and generally honest; ask for the meter (taxímetro) before getting in. Apps are widely used.
Arriving in Cuenca
Mariscal Lamar (CUE)
About 2 km from the old town; taxi $3–5 in 10 min, or walk 25 min. Regular flights from Quito and Guayaquil.
Driving and onward travel
- Driving: on the right. Foreign licences are valid for six months; rental firms may want an IDP. Quito limits cars by plate number.
- Onward travel in Ecuador: Cheap, frequent buses connect most towns; take direct daytime services from main terminals. LATAM and Avianca fly between Quito, Guayaquil, Cuenca and Galápagos.
Quick answers
Is there Uber in Cuenca?
Yes. Apps that work here: Uber, DiDi, inDrive.
What's the best way to get around Cuenca?
The center is compact and walkable; the Tranvía covers the main east–west axis, buses and taxis do the rest, and Uber or DiDi work as well.
How do I get from the airport to Cuenca?
About 2 km from the old town; taxi $3–5 in 10 min, or walk 25 min. Regular flights from Quito and Guayaquil.
Is Cuenca walkable?
Very walkable.
More about Cuenca
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Sources
Fares are typical 2026 prices; check the operator for today's fares. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.