Baños - Discovering Ecuador

Travelling to Baños

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Baños, a pretty good destination in Ecuador (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Baños and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Baños, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Ecuador, here's everything to know about Baños for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Baños

Baños is a small town located in the central Andean region of Ecuador, about 3 hours south of Quito. It is famous for its hot springs, scenic landscapes, and adventure activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and white-water rafting. The town is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including waterfalls, forests, and the active Tungurahua volcano. Baños is also known for its delicious cuisine, particularly its taffy and trout dishes. With a pleasant year-round climate, Baños is a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists.

What to visit in Baños

Sure, here are some of the popular tourist attractions in Baños, Ecuador: 1. Pailon del Diablo - This is a famous waterfall located about 12 km from Baños. It is one of the most visited places in the city and boasts a height of 80 meters. You can reach the waterfall by taking a short walk through a lush green landscape.
2. Casa Del Arbol - This is a small treehouse located on the edge of a cliff with breathtaking views of Tungurahua volcano. One of the main attractions here is the famous "swing at the end of the world." It's an adrenaline-pumping attraction where you can feel like you're swinging off the edge of the cliff.
3. La Ruta de las Cascadas - This is a tourist route that runs through several waterfalls, from Baños to Puyo, a city located in the Amazonian region of the country. Along this route, you can experience the beauty of the Ecuadorian Andes.
4. Baños de Agua Santa - This is a popular spa town famous for its hot springs that are believed to have healing properties. You can visit one of the many thermal baths or relax in one of the spas located throughout the city.
5. El Virgen - This is a viewpoint located on the outskirts of Baños that offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. It is a great spot for taking photos or just enjoying the scenery.
6. Church of the Virgin of the Holy Water - This is a beautiful Catholic church located in the center of the city that dates back to the colonial era. It is a popular place for people to visit and make offerings to the Virgin of the Holy Water.
7. San Martin Zoo - This is a small but well-kept zoo where you can see many species of animals native to the Andes Mountains, such as llamas, alpacas, and pumas.
These are just a few examples of the many tourist attractions you can find in Baños, Ecuador. Each of these attractions offers a unique experience, and they are all worth visiting.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Ecuador, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Baños.

When to go on holiday to Baños

The best time to visit Baños, Ecuador depends on personal preferences. Baños has a mild climate and can be visited year-round. However, the dry season from June to September tends to be the most popular time to visit, as rain is less likely and the weather is generally pleasant. This period coincides with school summer holidays in North America and Europe, so expect an increase in tourism during this time. The months of October through May can be rainy and humid, but also offer the opportunity to experience lush vegetation, fewer crowds, and lower prices on accommodations and activities.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Baños

Baños is a small town located in the province of Tungurahua, Ecuador. To get there, you can follow these steps: 1. Fly to Quito or Guayaquil 2. From Quito or Guayaquil airport, take a bus or hire a private taxi to Baños. The bus ride takes about 4-5 hours from Quito and 6-7 hours from Guayaquil.
3. Alternatively, you can take a flight to the nearby city of Ambato and then take a bus or taxi to Baños. The bus ride from Ambato takes around 45 minutes.
4. Once you arrive in Baños, you can explore the town on foot, or rent a bike, motorcycle or car to explore the surrounding areas.
Make sure to check the bus schedules beforehand and plan accordingly, since the frequency and availability of transport can vary depending on the season.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Baños, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Baños

Sure, here are some typical foods of Baños in Ecuador: 1. Fanesca: A hearty soup made with grains, beans, and vegetables. It's typically served during the Easter season and is considered a traditional Ecuadorian dish.
2. Mote Pata: A dish made with hominy (dried corn kernels) and pork. The pork is cooked until tender and served with the hominy and a spicy peanut sauce.
3. Cuy: This dish consists of roasted or fried guinea pig, which is a delicacy in Ecuador. It's typically served with potatoes and vegetables.
4. Churrasco: A grilled steak served with rice, French fries, and a fried egg. It's a popular dish in Ecuadorian cuisine and is usually served in traditional restaurants.
5. Empanadas de viento: Fried dough pockets filled with cheese and served with aji (spicy dipping sauce). They are a popular street food in Ecuador and are often eaten as a snack.
6. Seco de chivo: A stew made with goat meat, potatoes, and spices. It's cooked low and slow until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
7. Helado de Paila: A traditional Ecuadorian ice cream made in a copper pot with fresh fruit, sugar, and ice. It's churned by hand until it's thick and creamy, and it's often sold in small shops across Baños.
You can find general info about typical foods in Ecuador here.

Is Baños an expensive destination for tourists?

Baños, Ecuador can be considered a relatively affordable destination for tourists compared to other popular tourist destinations around the world; however, prices can vary depending on your budget and travel style. Accommodation prices range from budget hostels to high-end resorts, so you can easily find a place to stay that fits your needs and budget. Similarly, food and transportation costs can also vary depending on your preferences and the type of activities you plan to do during your trip. Generally, the cost of living in Baños is lower than in most Western countries, so you can expect to get good value for your money.

Where to find accomodation in Baños

Baños is a small town, and the main area where most accommodations are located is in the town center, around the central park. The areas near Calle Ambato and the bus terminal are also popular for finding accommodation. Additionally, there are some hotels, hostels, and lodges scattered around the outskirts of town, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.
You can check hotel prices at Baños here:
Booking.com

Is Baños a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Baños, Ecuador is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any destination, visitors should take the usual precautions, such as being aware of their surroundings, not carrying large sums of money or valuables, and being cautious with strangers. It is also advisable to use licensed taxis or public transportation, rather than unmarked or informal transport services. Overall, Baños is a popular tourist destination and visitors can feel comfortable exploring the town and surrounding areas.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Ecuador here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Baños.

What type of travelers will enjoy Baños the most?

Baños is a destination that can be enjoyed by a variety of travelers. It is a popular spot for young people looking for adventure and outdoor activities such as hiking, zip-lining, and white-water rafting. The town also offers a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of bars and clubs. For couples, Baños offers a romantic setting with its beautiful natural landscapes, hot springs, and charming streets. There are also various Spa treatments to relax after a day of hiking.
Families can also enjoy Baños, as it provides a safe and fun environment for children. There are various waterfalls and adventure parks, making it an ideal destination for a family trip. In summary, Baños offers something for everyone, and it depends on the traveler's preferences and interests to make the most out of their trip to this beautiful town in Ecuador.

How to get around Baños

Baños is a small town in Ecuador, so walking is a great option to move around the town center. Taxis are also widely available and relatively inexpensive. Buses are another common mode of transportation for getting around the town and its surroundings. Additionally, renting a bike or motorbike is a popular option for exploring Baños and its beautiful surrounding areas.

What to see around Baños

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Baños: 1. Pailon del Diablo: This is a beautiful waterfall located about 30 minutes away from Baños. The waterfall is 80 meters tall and has a walkway that takes you right up close to it.
2. Casa del Arbol: This is a treehouse that has a swing hanging over the edge of a mountain. The swing offers amazing views of the Tungurahua Volcano and the surrounding area.
3. Hike to Mirador de la Virgen: This is a beautiful hike that takes you up to a statue of the Virgin Mary that overlooks the town of Baños. The hike takes about an hour and offers amazing views.
4. Rio Verde Waterfall: This waterfall is located about 20 minutes away from Baños and is surrounded by beautiful forest. There is a path that takes you down to the waterfall where you can swim and relax.
5. Llanganates National Park: This national park is located about an hour away from Baños and offers great hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife. There are camping sites and cabins available for those who want to spend the night.
For every travel information about Ecuador you can click here.

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