Baños de Agua Santa
Baños de Agua Santa, located in the province of Tungurahua, is one of the most visited destinations in Ecuador. Known as the "Gateway to the Amazon," it combines nature, adventure, and relaxation, making it an ideal spot for tourists of all ages and preferences.
Its strategic location, nestled between the Andes and the Amazon, offers a wealth of biodiversity and unparalleled landscapes. Additionally, it features popular viewpoints like Bellavista and Ojos del Volcán, which provide unforgettable panoramic views. This destination is perfect for those seeking experiences that blend adrenaline, nature, and culture.
What to do in Baños?
Visit the Waterfalls:
• Agoyán Waterfall: This waterfall has a 40-meter drop and flows into the Pastaza River. It is located 7 km from the city of Baños, along the Baños-Puyo route.
• Manto de la Novia: Approximately 40 meters high, this waterfall is formed by the fall of the Chinchi River. It is located 11 km from Baños, on the Baños-Puyo route.
• Pailón del Diablo: This waterfall is approximately 80 meters high and is officially named Cascada de Río Verde. It is located 17 km along the Baños-Puyo route.
• Bascún Waterfall: With an approximate height of 35 meters, this waterfall is formed by the waters of the Bascún River. It is located ½ km northwest of Baños.
• Chamana Waterfall: This waterfall has a 42-meter drop and is located on the Baños-Puyo route, crossing the Ulba bridge, 2 km away. It is part of the group known as the "Seven Waterfalls of Chamana."
• Cashaurco Waterfall: Located in the Cashaurco hamlet, this site features a complex of four waterfalls. It is situated 4 km from the Río Negro parish.
• Machay Waterfalls: This group of waterfalls varies in height from 10 to 40 meters. They are located 11 km from Baños and 7 km from the Río Verde parish.
• San Jorge Waterfall: Located 12 km along the Baños-Puyo route.
• San Francisco Waterfall: Originating from the San Francisco River, this waterfall is located 28 km along the Baños-Puyo route.
• Ulba Waterfall: With an approximate height of 40 meters, it is located in the Ulba parish, 4 km from Baños.
• La Virgen Waterfall: Located in the Primavera community, it sits at an altitude of 2,997 meters above sea level, 30 minutes from the city of Baños.
• Baños Waterfalls Route: A suggested tourist route to see the most iconic waterfalls in the area. This journey begins with the Agoyán Waterfall and offers the opportunity to engage in extreme sports as well.
Thermal Waters:
El Salado Hot Springs: This location offers pools with yellowish thermal waters, rich in minerals, which help alleviate pain.
- Address: Avenida El Salado
- Opening Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 5:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Monday to Sunday: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
- Cost per Person:
Adult: $3.00
Child: $1.50
Recreational Virgen Hot Springs: These facilities feature thermal water pools and recreational pools, including 8 pools with regulated temperatures. Visitors can enjoy the benefits of these waters and modern slides, choosing the option that suits them best. It is located a short distance from La Virgen Waterfall.
- Address: Luis A. Martínez and Manuel Sánchez
- Opening Hours:
Wednesday to Friday: 2:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Saturday, Sunday, and Holidays: 10:00 AM - 8:30 PM
- Cost per Person:
Adult: $6.00
Child: $3.00
Santa Ana Hot Springs:
- Address: Av. Amazonas Km.0, Baños-Puyo Route
- Opening Hours:
Friday to Sunday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Cost per Person:
Adult: $2.00
Child: $1.00
Santa Clara Spa:
- Address: Velasco Ibarra between 12 de Noviembre and Rafael Vieira
- Opening Hours:
Monday, Tuesday, and Friday: 2:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Saturday, Sunday, and Holidays: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- Cost per Person:
Adult: $4.00
Child: $2.00
Explore the Basilica of Nuestra Señora del Rosario de Agua Santa:
This religious sanctuary is an important pilgrimage site, renowned for the miracles attributed to the Virgin of Agua Santa.
Types of Tourism in Baños
- Adventure Tourism: Baños is the adventure tourism capital of Ecuador.
- Religious Tourism: Thanks to its basilica and the devotion to the Virgin of Agua Santa.
- Ecotourism: Its proximity to the Amazon and unique natural landscapes.
- Gastronomic Tourism: Offering treats such as melcochas, empanadas de viento, and traditional dishes like yaguarlocro.
Adventure Sports
- Canyoning: At waterfalls like Chamana or Río Blanco.
- Rafting: On the Pastaza and Patate rivers, with varying levels of difficulty.
- Bungee Jumping: Extreme jumps from bridges such as San Francisco.
- Ziplining: Over rivers with spectacular views of nature.
- Cycling: Especially on the Route of the Waterfalls.
- Paragliding: To admire Baños from the heights.
Popular Viewpoints
- Casa del Árbol: Home to the famous "Swing at the End of the World," offering stunning views of the Tungurahua volcano.
- Bellavista Viewpoint: Perfect for seeing the city lit up at night.
- Ojos del Volcán: A high-altitude experience to observe the strength of the Tungurahua volcano and its surroundings.
- La Virgen Viewpoint: Offers a panoramic view of the city and is ideal for enjoying a sunset.
