Hot springs, waterfalls and turquoise lakes – adrenaline and relaxation at the foot of an active volcano.
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Hot springs, waterfalls and turquoise lakes – adrenaline and relaxation at the foot of an active volcano.
Baños de Agua Santa, commonly known simply as Baños, is a small town nestled in a lush green valley at the foot of the active Tungurahua volcano. Its name comes from the many hot springs of volcanic origin that flow through the town, a destination for travellers since colonial times seeking relaxation and the healing properties of its waters.
From Baños begins the famous Ruta de las Cascadas, a roughly 18 km route dotted with dozens of waterfalls, the most famous of which is Pailón del Diablo, an imposing waterfall that can be admired up close via walkways and hanging bridges. The route can be done by bicycle, on foot or by tourist bus.
Baños is also known as Ecuador's capital of extreme sports: rafting, canyoning, puenting (bungee-style jumps from suspension bridges) and canopy zip-lining are just some of the activities on offer. Not far from the centre stands the famous Casa del Árbol, with its "swing at the end of the world" hanging over the void, with Tungurahua in the background.
The surrounding central Andean region holds some of Ecuador's most spectacular lagoons. The most famous is Laguna Quilotoa, a turquoise crater lake formed within a volcanic caldera, reachable via a scenic hike along the crater's rim. Other Andean lagoons, such as Limpiopungo near Cotopaxi, complete a landscape made of silence, altitude and intense colours.
If you're considering a trip to Ecuador, Baños and the Andean lagoons are ideal for combining adventure with breathtaking landscapes!
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