Buses are the backbone of travel in Ecuador. Every city has a terminal terrestre (central bus station), and buses run between major towns throughout the day and night. The Quito–Guayaquil route takes about 8 hours; Quito–Cuenca is around 9 hours. Fares are cheap — a long cross-country journey might cost $10–20. Night buses save hotel costs but choose reputable companies and keep luggage close. Express or executive-class services offer more leg room and are worth the small premium for long hauls.
Domestic flights make sense for reaching the Galápagos (mandatory for most visitors) and for the Quito–Guayaquil or Quito–Cuenca runs if you're short on time. LATAM and Avianca operate most domestic routes. Book in advance, especially during peak season. Expect to pay $60–150 each way for mainland flights; Galápagos flights from Quito or Guayaquil run $180–300.
Taxis are inexpensive and plentiful in cities. Always agree on a price or ensure the meter is running before you set off. In Quito and Guayaquil, app-based taxis (InDriver and Cabify are widely used) give you a fixed fare upfront and are more reliable.
Car rental is available in major cities and airports, and driving lets you reach highland markets and national parks on your own schedule. Roads are generally decent in the Sierra; the coast and Amazon have more unpaved sections. Driving at night is not recommended. An international driving permit is useful but not always required.
The train network is limited but scenic. The most famous journey is the Devil's Nose switchback from Alausí — a dramatic descent down a sheer rock face. Check the Ferrocarriles del Ecuador website for current schedules as services have been suspended and resumed repeatedly.