Top Things to Do in Banos
About the City
Nestled amid the Andean foothills, Baños de Agua Santa, often referred to simply as Baños, is a charming mélange of outdoor adventures and serene spa retreats. It’s a place where thrill-seekers and zen-seekers collide. Imagine waking up to the sight of the majestic Tungurahua volcano, ready to greet the day with a burst of adrenaline. The town serves up a buffet of extreme sports, from bungee jumping off bridges to whitewater rafting on the roaring Pastaza River. And after a day of heart-racing exploits, the thermal springs await to soak away your aches in mineral-infused bliss. But alas, Baños is not without its quirks. Expect to share your serenity with a throng of like-minded tourists, all eager for their slice of paradise. And with popularity comes the inevitable commercial hubbub—souvenir shops at every corner, each one boasting the same set of trinkets. Moreover, the weather can be quite moody, showering you with sunshine one moment and with brisk showers the next, an unpredictable dance that can disrupt even the best-laid plans. In essence, Baños is a symphony of contrasts, a place where you can swing at the edge of the world in the morning and melt into a volcanic bath by night, a tiny town with a vast heart, ready to both excite and relax its visitors.
Things to Do in Banos
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Swing at the end of the world
OutdoorsSwing at the edge of a mountain and enjoy the views and adrenaline 🏔️
Canyoning Cashaurco in Baños
OutdoorsRappelling through waterfalls, jumping into waterholes and walking through Cashaurco canyon.
7 Cascades Waterfall Pool
OutdoorsFind the 7 Cascades waterfall next to Baños and climb to the top. There, you'll find a baby waterfall that drops into a small pool that has an amazing view over the valley. Take some beers and enjoy...
Haggle Like a Pro at the Mercado Central
The UnexpectedPut your bargaining cap on and dive into the heart of local trade at the central market. It's a riot of colors, scents, and sounds where you can snag anything from exotic fruits to hand-crafted trinke...
Experience the Magic of a Lantern Night
The UnexpectedImagine the sky lit up with a sea of lanterns, each one carrying wishes and dreams into the ethereal night. This is not your typical tourist activity, but it's surely one for the memory books. Join in...
Strum Some Strings in a Music Workshop
The UnexpectedGet your groove on and unleash your inner Carlos Santana! Banos is not just about extreme sports and spa days; it's also a hotspot for some sweet, sweet melodies. Picture this: you're chilling with th...
Join a Festive Street Parade
The UnexpectedWho needs Rio when you've got Banos? Get caught up in the whirlwind of a local parade, where the music's hot, the costumes are dazzling, and the energy is contagious. Dance along with the crowds, and ...
Horseback Riding in Lush Green Valleys
OutdoorsSaddle up, cowboy! It's time to explore Baños's breathtaking valleys the old-fashioned way. Gallop through the greenery and up the rolling hills with views that'll make your heart giddy-up. Whether yo...
Kayak the Rapids of the Pastaza River
OutdoorsGet ready for some wet and wild fun as you paddle your way through the swirling rapids of the mighty Pastaza River. Feel the rush of the current and the splash of chilly water on your face while you n...
Sip on Canelazo
Food & DrinkGet toasty with a steamy cup of Canelazo, a delightful alcoholic beverage that's like a bear hug from the inside out. It's made with agua de canela (cinnamon water), sugar, and a splash of the local f...
Relish in Trucha
Food & DrinkHook yourself a fresh one! Trucha, or trout, is a staple around these parts. Grilled, fried, or baked - it's a dish that's sure to reel you in with its flaky goodness and savory sides.
Climb Up Rucu Pichincha Volcano
SightsFancy getting up close and personal with an active stratovolcano? Put on your hiking boots, pack some grit and make your way up the slopes of the Rucu Pichincha Volcano for some intense bragging right...
Marvel at Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Agua Santa
SightsFeast your eyes on the Gothic-style glory of this iconic basilica. Make sure to peek inside for the stunning artwork – it's like stepping into a divine comic book of miracles!
Amble Along Ruta de las Cascadas
SightsHop on a bike or a chiva, and get ready for a sensory overload. Bask in the breeze, listen to the sounds of nature and feast your eyes on the jaw-dropping waterfalls along the way.
Gawk at Gorgeous Street Art
SightsUnleash your inner art critic as you stroll through the streets of Baños, ogling at the vibrant street murals. It's like an outdoor gallery that never closes – plus, it's free!
Embark on an Epic Volcano Adventure
SightsWho needs a sauna when you can hike around an active volcano? Tungurahua isn't always puffing, but when it does, it's the smoke signal for an epic day trip.
Devour Hornado
Food & DrinkHornado is a feast for carnivores, a succulent roast pig served with a heap of homely sides. Think tender, juicy meat with a skin so perfectly crispy, it’ll make you want to sing ballads about it whil...
Enjoy Empanadas de Viento
Food & DrinkThese aren't your average empanadas. Picture this: a fluffy, fried pastry, as big as your head, overstuffed with cheese and topped with a sprinkle of sugar. It's the ultimate grab-and-go snack for any...
Bite into Bizcochos
Food & DrinkDunk 'em, munch 'em, love 'em! Bizcochos, those crispy, buttery breadsticks are the perfect snack for wandering adventurers. Dip them in a cup of hot chocolate or a dollop of dulce de leche for an ext...
Salsa Dance Like a Local
The UnexpectedShake a leg and get your groove on to the rhythm of local salsa music! No matter if you've got two left feet or you're a seasoned pro, the music is sure to get those hips swaying. Let loose, feel the ...