Baños Travel Guide (Andean Highlands/Ecuador/South America)

Introduction to Baños

Perched on the foothills of the Tungurahua volcano in the Andean Highlands of Ecuador sits the picturesque town of Baños. Known as the “Gateway to the Amazon,” Baños is an adventure-lovers’ paradise with a wide array of outdoor activities, scenic views, and natural attractions.

Baños is located about three hours south of Quito and is home to around 18,000 people. The town is famous for its hot springs, waterfall hikes, and mountain bike trails. But, there’s much more to explore beyond these popular attractions.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll dive deep into the best places to visit, things to do, and where to eat and stay in Baños. We’ll also cover how to get there, where to go next, and important safety and health tips.

List of Places to Visit in Baños

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Baños has a rich cultural history that you can explore through its museums and historical sites:

Museum of the Virgin: Check out the history and legends surrounding the town’s iconic statue of the Virgin Mary.
Banos Wax Museum: View life-size wax figures of famous people, both local and international.
Basílica Nuestra Señora del Rosario de Agua Santa: See the stunning architecture of this neo-gothic church and attend a mass if you’d like.
Pailón del Diablo: Take a short hike to see this stunning waterfall and learn about its history at the museum.

Natural Attractions of Baños: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Baños is known for its stunning landscapes, natural beauty, and outdoor adventures:

Casa del Arbol: Ride the famous “swing at the end of the world” and enjoy panoramic views of the valley.
Runtun Adventure Park: Challenge yourself on the obstacle course or zipline through the treetops.
Hot Springs: Soak in the natural hot springs located throughout the town and experience the healing effects of thermal waters.
Bellavista Viewpoint: Take in stunning views of the city and its surroundings from this popular viewpoint.
Tungurahua Volcano: See the active volcano and attend a guided tour to learn more about its geology.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Baños

Baños is a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers, with numerous trails for all levels of experience. Some of the top routes include:

Ruta de las Cascadas: a mountain bike and hiking route that takes you past several waterfalls and stunning scenery.
Pailón del Diablo Trail: a moderate hike through the cloud forest that leads to the impressive Pailón del Diablo waterfall.
Tungurahua Volcano Trail: a challenging hike that takes you up close to the active volcano and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
Sangay National Park: take a multi-day trek through the stunning Andean landscape of the national park.

Best Things to Do in Baños: Activities and Tours

Beyond outdoor adventures, Baños offers a variety of activities and tours to enrich your experience:

Spa Treatments: relax with a therapeutic massage or rejuvenating body treatment at one of the many spas and wellness centers.
Chocolate Factory Tours: learn about the history and production of cacao and indulge in some delicious chocolate samples.
Rafting and Kayaking: navigate the rapids of the Pastaza River and enjoy stunning views of the canyon walls.
Birdwatching: take a guided tour to see and learn about the unique bird species found in the Andean Highlands.
Canyoning: descend through waterfalls and jump into natural pools on an adrenaline-filled adventure.

Week-Long Itinerary for Baños

With so much to see and do, a week-long itinerary is a great way to make the most of your time in Baños. Here’s a suggested itinerary to help you plan your trip:

Day	Activity
1	Arrive in Baños, explore the town, and soak in the hot springs.
2	Take a guided tour to the Tungurahua volcano and Sangay National Park.
3	Hike the Ruta de las Cascadas Trail and visit the waterfalls.
4	Experience the “swing at the end of the world” and visit the Casa del Arbol.
5	Take a chocolate factory tour and visit the Museum of the Virgin.
6	Raft or kayak on the Pastaza River and go canyoning through waterfalls.
7	Depart Baños for your next destination.

Food and Drink Scene of Baños

Must-Try Dishes

Baños is known for its delicious cuisine, and there are a few dishes you must try when in town:

Locro de Papas: a hearty potato soup made with different types of potatoes, cheese, onions, and avocado.
Hornado: roasted pork served with potatoes, corn, and llapingacho (a dish made with mashed potatoes and cheese).
Churrasco: grilled beef served with rice, beans, and fried plantains.
Cuy: roasted guinea pig, a traditional Ecuadorian delicacy that tastes similar to chicken or rabbit.

Local Beverages

Don’t forget to try the local beverages while in Baños:

Canelazo: a warm cocktail made with cinnamon, sugar, and aguardiente (a sugarcane liquor).
Mote Pillo: a breakfast dish made with hominy, scrambled eggs, and onions.
Champús: a sweet drink made with maize, fruit, and cinnamon.

Where to Stay in Baños: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Baños offers a variety of accommodations to fit every budget and travel style:

Hostels: affordable and social options for backpackers looking to make new friends and save money.
Guesthouses: cozy and welcoming options with a personal touch.
Hotels: comfortable and convenient options with more amenities and higher price points.

Some top-rated options include:

Hostal Chimenea: a cozy eco-hotel with a fireplace and pleasant garden. Price: $$
Selina Baños: a modern and stylish hostel with a bar, restaurant, and game room. Price: $
Luna Volcán Adventure Spa: a luxury retreat with thermal pools, spa treatments, and stunning views. Price: $$$

What to Buy in Baños: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

There are plenty of unique souvenirs and local products to take home from Baños:

Handicrafts: hand-woven textiles, pottery, and wood carvings are some examples of the handicrafts you’ll find in Baños.
Cacao Products: bring home some delicious chocolate or cacao powder from a local factory.
Perfumes: Baños is known for its flower farms, and many shops sell floral perfumes and scents.

Local Culture and Customs of Baños

The people of Baños are friendly and welcoming, and it’s important to respect the local culture and customs:

Dress modestly when visiting churches and other religious sites.
Greetings are important in Ecuador, so be sure to say “hola” and “buenos días” to those you meet.
Learning a few basic phrases in Spanish can go a long way when interacting with locals.

Best Time to Visit Baños

Baños can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season from June to September. The weather is mild, sunny, and ideal for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Baños

Do:

Try local dishes and beverages.
Respect the local culture and customs.
Explore the lesser-known attractions and off-the-beaten-path areas.
Practice good hiking and outdoor adventure safety.

Don’t:

Leave valuables unattended.
Trespass in private property or restricted areas.
Disrespect nature or wildlife.
Litter or damage the environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Baños

Baños is a safe town, but it’s always important to take basic safety precautions:

Don’t leave valuables unattended.
Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
Choose well-lit routes when walking at night.
Be cautious when using ATMs and carry only the money you need for the day.

Health in Baños

Baños is located at an altitude of 1,820 meters, so altitude sickness can be a risk for some travelers. Be sure to drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol during your first few days in town.

It’s also important to practice good hygiene and safe food practices to avoid getting sick while in Baños.

Getting to Baños: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Baños

The closest airport to Baños is the Ambato Airport, located about an hour’s drive away. However, most international travelers will arrive at the Mariscal Sucre International Airport in Quito, which is about three hours away.

Bus Stations Near Baños

The main bus station in Baños is located on the outskirts of town. You can take a local bus or taxi from the bus station to your accommodation.

Other Options

It’s also possible to hire a private driver or arrange a tour transfer to get to Baños.

How to Get Around in Baños

Baños is a small town that you can easily explore on foot. There are also local buses and taxis available for transportation to and from nearby attractions.

Where to Go Next from Baños: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Baños is an ideal base for exploring the Andean Highlands and the surrounding areas of Ecuador. Some nearby destinations and excursions include:

Cuenca: a charming colonial city with stunning architecture and rich cultural history.
The Amazon: venture deeper into the Amazon basin and explore the unique flora and fauna of the rainforest.
Riobamba: visit the infamous Devil’s Nose train ride and explore the Chimborazo National Park.
Mindo: visit the birdwatching capital on your way to Quito.

Conclusion

Baños is a unique and vibrant town that offers endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. With this comprehensive guide, you’re ready to explore Baños and make the most out of your Ecuadorian adventure.