The small city of Baños lies at the foot of the active volcano Tungurahua. Named after the hot springs fed by the thermal waters of the volcano, Baños is one of the most popular attractions in Ecuador. Here you can take a trip to see architectural structures of beautiful churches, village museums, and multiple sightseeing spots of the landscape.
A popular church to visit is the Church of the Virgin of the Holy Water, with a magnificent basilica. Community legend says the Virgin of the Holy Water, which the church is named after, is responsible for many local miracles. You can also visit the country’s first Agroecological Park, home to various animals such as zebrallos, llamas, exotic birds, ostriches, horses, alpacas, and white-tailed deer.
Of course, a visit to its namesake, the hot springs, is a must. Local hot springs, such as the La Virgen and El Salado hot springs, are heated directly from the Tungurahua volcano. Bathe in thermal baths of temperatures higher than 22 ºC. According to some people, the minerals in the natural water contain healing properties.
Known as the “Gateway to the Amazon,” Baños is a favorite departure point for jungle tours. Waterfalls cascade thousands of feet down deep river gorges. The thunderous Pailon de Diablo waterfall, surging over a gorge where the Rio Verde and Rio Pastaza meet, is the most impressive. Walk, climb or hike the surrounding trails and volcano, take a jungle tour to the Amazon Rainforest or ride horses deep into the hills.
Whether you enjoy culture, relaxing hot springs, or adventures in the jungle, Baños offers a little bit of everything for travelers.
