The Ecovias are a series of very popular articulated buses that operate along Av. 6 de Diciembre. The Ecovia is one part of Quito’s North-South public transportation triumvirate and runs between Rio Coca, to the north, and La Marin, to the south.
Like the Trolebús, the Ecovias have dedicated lanes, covered stops and always cost 25 cents (no matter what your destination). Conductors usually call out the next point along the line, but each Ecovia parada (or stop) is also indicated by a large, brown marker and pictographic signs.
To use the Ecovia, walk into any of the stops along 6 de Deciembre. The entry way typically has a glass booth. You will need to insert correct change into a machine to pass through the turnstile. If you don’t have 25 cents, the booth attendants can convert coins and small bills for you. (Just don’t ask them to change anything larger than $1 or $5.)
Ecovias pass by very regularly during their operating hours of 5 a.m. to 11 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 6 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. weekends and holidays. Be sure to get on quickly, as the doors don’t stay open for long. If you are confronted with an Ecovia that appears extremely full (which happens often), wait for the next one. Once you're on, make sure you grab one or two of the many handholds, since Ecovias stop abruptly.
Food and uncovered drinks are not allowed on the Ecovias.
Keep an eye and hand on your valuables at all times; if you're using a backpack or large bag, shift it to your front when you get on. Pickpockets have been known to target Ecovia passengers, particularly on crowded buses.