I'm typically not a timid driver but driving in Quito is complete mayhem. The road signs are confusing and it seems that the law of gross tonage prevails (big vehicles just squeeze the smaller ones out of the way). Once you're out of the city, it's not bad but you'll definitely need to rent a 4-wheel drive vehicle for driving the back roads. When it's all said and done, it may be more economical to take public transportation or taxis in Quito and hire a driver for your trips to Otovalo and Banos. There are plenty of reputable agencies in Quito who could arrange this for you.

Safe travels!

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Thank you for your reply. I think we will leave driving to the locals! Is there a website for bus transportation? Is there a direct bus from otavalo to banos?

Thank you for the information. I think we will leave driving to the locals. I was wondering if there is a website with bus schedules. We were looking for a bus from Otavalo to Banos.