Written by Carmen Vallejo, Keith Roberts, Carlos Zambrano
30/07/2025
Shad Meeg, Pexels
Baños de Agua Santa, often referred to as Ecuador's adventure capital, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and adrenaline-pumping activities. It is nestled amidst lush mountains, numerous waterfalls, and the active Tungurahua volcano. Visitors can explore natural hot springs for relaxation or engage in a wide array of outdoor sports, making it an appealing destination for both thrill-seekers and those seeking tranquility.
The town of Baños provides ample opportunities for social interaction, particularly for backpackers and solo travelers. The main square and central areas feature a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars that contribute to a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. Many hostels, such as Community Hostel, Erupción Art Hotel & Hostel, Hostal Plantas y Blanco, and Hostal D'Mathias, actively foster a social environment with communal spaces and organized activities, making it easy to connect with other travelers.
Top 7 Things to do in Baños de Agua Santa
Activities in Baños de Agua Santa range from adrenaline-pumping outdoor sports amidst dramatic landscapes to opportunities for serene relaxation in natural thermal baths and exploration of magnificent waterfalls.
1. Relax at the Thermal Baths
Experience the therapeutic volcanic hot springs that give Baños its name. The 'Piscinas de la Virgen' are located near a waterfall, offering a unique ambiance, especially when illuminated at night. Another popular option is 'El Salado', known for its mineral-rich yellowish waters. It is recommended to alternate between hot pools and cold showers and limit time in the hottest pools to about 15 minutes. Visitors should bring a swimming hat, which is compulsory and can be rented or purchased on-site.
Cost: Entry fees vary; generally $2-$3 USD per person.
Transport: The main thermal baths, like Termas de la Virgen, are within walking distance of the city center.
2. Visit Pailón del Diablo Waterfall
Descend into the 'Devil's Cauldron', a powerful and majestic waterfall where visitors can feel the sheer force of nature. There are two entry points, each offering a different perspective; one leads to an upper viewing platform, while the other allows a closer, wetter experience near the thundering falls. Pathways carved into the cliffside provide unique angles and photo opportunities. It is advisable to wear waterproof clothing due to the mist.
Cost: Entrance fee is typically $2 USD per person.
Transport: Pailón del Diablo is located about 17 km from Baños in Rio Verde. Public buses to Puyo from the Baños bus terminal cost around $1-$2 USD one way and drop visitors near the entrance. Taxis can cost $10-$20 USD one way, with an extra fee if the driver waits. Many people rent a bike for about $5-$10 USD per day and cycle the downhill 'Ruta de las Cascadas', with camionetas (pickup trucks) available for a return trip (around $3-$5 USD per person, plus bike).
3. Swing at the End of the World (Casa del Árbol)
Experience the famous 'Swing at the End of the World' at Casa del Árbol, a treehouse observatory perched on the side of a hill with unobstructed views of the active Tungurahua volcano and the surrounding valley. This iconic swing provides a thrilling sensation of flying over an abyss. The site also offers other smaller swings and viewpoints. It is recommended to visit in the morning for clearer views of the volcano.
Cost: Entrance fee is $1 USD per person.
Transport: La Casa del Árbol is approximately 45 minutes from Baños. Tours are available, typically costing $6-$10 USD. Local buses depart at specific times (e.g., 5:45 AM, 11 AM, 2 PM, 4 PM) from Panaderia La Delicia Don Gato, costing about $1 USD. Taxis cost around $10 USD one way. Motos or 'cuadrones' (ATVs) can be rented for $15-$20 USD.
4. Bike the Ruta de las Cascadas (Waterfall Route)
Cycle the scenic Ruta de las Cascadas, a predominantly downhill 16-25 km route along the Pastaza River that showcases numerous waterfalls and adventure activities. Key stops include Agoyan Waterfall, Manto de la Novia, and Pailón del Diablo. Along the route, visitors can also find opportunities for ziplining and cable car rides over gorges. The full route can take 3-6 hours, allowing for stops at various falls and attractions. While cycling the main road, be aware of traffic, though alternate routes exist around some tunnels.
Cost: Bike rental typically costs $5-$10 USD for a full day. Chiva (open-air bus) tours covering the route can cost $5-$10 USD. Return transport by pickup truck (camioneta) for bikes and riders is available from Rio Verde for around $3-$5 USD per person.
Transport: The route begins just east of Baños. Bikes are rented in town. Camionetas or local buses can bring you back to Baños from various points along the route.
5. White Water Rafting on the Pastaza River
Embark on an exhilarating white water rafting adventure on the Pastaza River, known for its Class III and IV rapids. This activity offers a thrilling experience through the lush rainforest scenery of Sangay National Park. Trips usually include professional guides, safety equipment, and sometimes lunch and photos/videos. No prior experience is required, only a desire for fun and adventure.
Cost: Tours typically cost $35-$50 USD per person, often including equipment, guides, and sometimes lunch and transport.
Transport: Tours generally include private transportation from Baños to the rafting starting point and return.
6. Canyoning in Chamana or Rio Blanco Waterfalls
Descend through waterfalls and navigate canyons by rappelling, sliding, and jumping into natural pools. This activity provides an immersive experience in Ecuador's wilderness, with varying levels of difficulty to suit beginners and thrill-seekers. Certified guides provide all necessary equipment and ensure safety throughout the descent. Chamana waterfall, just minutes from Baños, is a popular spot for beginners, featuring multiple falls including a 50-meter rappel.
Cost: Small-group canyoning experiences range from $24-$55 USD per person, often including equipment, guides, and transport. Private tours can start from $25-$38 USD.
Transport: Many tours include round-trip transportation from select locations in Baños or from a central meeting point in the city.
7. Bridge Jumping / Swing Jumping
For those seeking an intense adrenaline rush, bridge jumping, also known as 'puenting' or swing jumping, involves plunging from a bridge and swinging in a giant arc over the Pastaza River. This activity is similar to bungee jumping but offers a pendulum-like swing. The jump typically takes place at the San Francisco Bridge, located near the bus terminal. Safety is paramount, with dual harnesses, helmets, and professional guides ensuring a secure experience.
Cost: Bridge jumping typically costs around $20-$40 USD. Photos and videos may be an additional $5 USD.
Transport: The San Francisco Bridge is located directly in front of the Baños bus terminal, making it easily accessible by walking from most parts of the town center.
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