Quito Airport: Covid Testing Availability And Requirements

As the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded, the Quito International Airport's response was defined by effective leadership and communication. The airport, operated by Corporación Quiport S.A., implemented measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19, including workshops and collaboration with authorities, airlines, and commercial operators. While the availability of COVID-19 testing at the Quito airport is unclear, there are testing facilities in the city of Quito, and testing may have been provided at the airport during certain periods. In February 2022, a traveller mentioned the possibility of COVID-19 testing at the Quito airport, but it is unclear if they confirmed the availability of testing on-site. Additionally, as of 2020, domestic travellers between Quito and Guayaquil were required to undergo COVID-19 testing, which could be conducted at authorised points in airports. Therefore, it is advisable to check the latest information regarding testing requirements and availability at the Quito airport before your travel.

Covid testing centre location at Quito Airport

It is unclear whether there is a COVID-19 testing centre located directly within Quito Airport. However, there are testing facilities in the city of Quito, and some sources suggest that COVID-19 tests can be taken at Quito Airport at Medicalvip. One source mentions a testing centre at Quito Airport, but it is unclear whether this is within the airport or in the city.

If you are travelling to the Galapagos Islands, you must take a COVID-19 test at Quito Airport, receiving your results within 48-96 hours. If you do not have a test upon arrival, you will have to take a PCR test at a hotel, such as the Wyndham Airport Hotel, which is certified to accept passengers without a test. The hotel will coordinate with a laboratory to perform the test the next day. You will then need to wait 48 hours for your results, which will be sent by email.

If you are travelling between Quito and Guayaquil, you must have a negative PCR or quantitative test carried out in authorised laboratories up to 72 hours before boarding. If you do not have this test, you can take a rapid test at authorised points in the airport up to 24 hours before your flight.

There are various COVID-19 testing centres in Quito, Ecuador, which can be found on this webpage. It is important to verify the information with each test clinic and to provide the exact name that appears on your passport when requesting a test. Some laboratories may require appointments, so it is recommended that you contact the laboratory before your test.

PCR test results and timing

If you are travelling to Quito, Ecuador, and need to take a PCR test, there are a few things to keep in mind regarding the timing of your test and receiving your results. Firstly, it is important to verify the information directly with the testing centre or clinic, as their operating hours and procedures may vary.

For travellers arriving in Quito, there is a testing centre located within Quito Airport, which operates during typical working hours. The results from this testing centre are available within three hours, however, some travellers have noted that the centre may not be open 24 hours. Therefore, if you arrive late at night, you may need to stay near the airport and get tested the next morning.

If you are travelling onwards to the Galapagos Islands, you will need to present a negative PCR test taken no more than 96 hours before your trip. This 96-hour window is counted from the day the test is taken. It is important to note that you may need to wait up to 48 hours for your results, so plan your test accordingly.

For domestic travel within Ecuador, requirements may vary. For example, in June 2020, travellers between Quito and Guayaquil were required to present a negative PCR test carried out up to 72 hours before their flight. Alternatively, they could undergo rapid tests at the airport up to 24 hours before their flight. It is recommended to check the latest requirements for your specific itinerary.

When taking a PCR test in Quito, ensure that you provide the exact name that appears on your passport, including your middle name. You should also request a test certificate in English before taking the test. Results are typically sent by email.

Covid testing requirements for domestic travel

For domestic travel, Covid testing requirements can vary depending on the country and the specific regulations in place at the time. Here is an overview of the Covid testing requirements for domestic travel in the context of Quito Airport in Ecuador:

As of June 2020, the National Emergency Committee (COE) mandated that domestic travelers flying between Quito and Guayaquil must possess negative COVID-19 test results obtained within 72 hours before boarding. This regulation was in effect until July 6, 2020. After this date, random testing was implemented at the airport of origin. It is important to note that travelers who did not have a negative test result could undergo rapid tests at authorized laboratories or airports within 24 hours before their flight.

Quito International Airport, managed by Corporación Quiport S.A., has played a crucial role in pandemic response. The airport has served as a mediator between authorities, airlines, and commercial operators to maintain operational continuity while implementing necessary controls to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Regarding testing facilities, there are COVID-19 testing centers available within Quito Airport, such as Medicalvip, which operates during standard working hours. Additionally, travelers can opt for testing at other locations in Quito, such as Ecuamerican, which offers PCR tests with quick turnaround times.

It is always advisable to verify the latest testing requirements and guidelines for your specific destination and stay updated with any changes or updates to these regulations.

Covid testing requirements for international travel

When travelling internationally, it is important to be aware of the COVID-19 testing requirements of your destination country, as well as those of your departure country. Many countries require a negative COVID-19 test result for entry, and some may also require testing upon arrival. It is important to check the specific requirements of your destination country before travelling.

In the context of Quito Airport, there have been discussions about COVID-19 testing requirements for travellers. Some sources indicate that there is a COVID-19 testing centre within Quito Airport, specifically at Medicalvip, which operates during typical working hours. However, it is unclear whether this testing centre is still operational, as some of the information may be outdated. It is always best to contact the airport directly to confirm the availability of testing.

If you are travelling to the Galapagos Islands from Quito, there have been reports of specific COVID-19 testing requirements. Travellers may need to undergo a COVID-19 test at Quito Airport, with a minimum waiting time of 48 hours for results and a maximum of 96 hours. In such cases, it is important to plan your trip accordingly, allowing sufficient time for testing and receiving results.

Additionally, Ecuador, where Quito Airport is located, has implemented various biosecurity and safety protocols. These include enhanced airport transfers, special sanitation regimes for vehicles, fully vaccinated staff, social distancing measures, contactless interactions, and regular cleaning and disinfection procedures. It is important to follow the local guidelines and protocols to ensure a safe travel experience.

When travelling internationally, it is essential to stay informed about the latest COVID-19 regulations and requirements of your destination and departure countries. This includes understanding the specific testing requirements, such as the type of test (e.g., PCR, antigen), the timeframe for testing, and the format of presenting test results (e.g., digital certificate, paper copy). By staying up to date with the relevant information, you can help ensure a smoother travel experience and contribute to the safety of your fellow travellers.

Covid testing clinics in Quito

Covid-19 testing is available at Quito International Airport. On May 18, 2022, the National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) implemented a rapid testing requirement for all passengers entering Ecuador on international repatriation flights. The airport has installed 10 temporary testing stations for sampling passengers. Results can take up to 48 hours to be released but should not exceed 96 hours.

Within the city of Quito, there are several clinics that offer Covid-19 testing with same-day results. These include EcuaAmerican, which is typically open on weekends and charges $88 for a test. Another option is Castle Rock, although it is unclear if they offer same-day results. Additionally, some hotels in Quito, such as the Wyndham Airport Hotel, are certified to accept passengers without a test and can coordinate with laboratories to have tests done at the hotel the next day. The cost of a rapid antigen test is $55, while a PCR test costs $88.

Frequently asked questions