Best Things to Do in Baños, Ecuador: Complete Travel Guide

Last Updated: October 2026

Nestled among lush green mountains at the foot of the mighty Tungurahua volcano, Baños de Agua Santa is one of Ecuador’s most beautiful and adventurous destinations.

Known as Ecuador’s adventure capital, Baños is famous for its spectacular waterfalls, natural hot springs, scenic hiking trails and adrenaline-pumping activities. But you don’t have to be an adventure junkie to fall in love with this charming little town!

We arrived in Baños from Quito, stopping at Cotopaxi and the spectacular Quilotoa Crater Lake along the way. The following morning, we woke to thick fog and rain, but as the clouds lifted, the surrounding mountains revealed countless waterfalls cascading down the lush green slopes. It was absolutely breathtaking!

We loved Baños so much that we returned for another two nights later in our Ecuador trip. From cycling the famous Ruta de las Cascadas to ziplining over waterfalls and exploring beautiful viewpoints, we had an incredible time.

In this guide, we share the best things to do in Baños, Ecuador, along with our favourite experiences, accommodation recommendations and practical tips to help you plan your visit.

Starting your Ecuador adventure in Quito? Don’t miss our guide to Quito, Ecuador’s fascinating capital, where you can explore beautiful colonial architecture, impressive churches and spectacular Andean scenery before heading south to Baños.

Best Things to Do in Baños, Ecuador

Cycle the Ruta de las Cascadas (Waterfall Route)

Cycling the Ruta de las Cascadas is one of the best things to do in Baños and an experience you shouldn’t miss! This spectacular route takes you through lush green mountains, past dramatic valleys and numerous waterfalls cascading down the cliffs.

Renting a bike in Baños is easy, with several tour agencies offering rentals from approximately US$5–10 per day. You can explore independently or join an organised cycling tour.

We joined a guided ride with Alexander Tours, and our guide, Carlos, was fantastic! The route was mostly downhill, making it a relatively easy and enjoyable ride. We took around three hours to reach our final stop, the magnificent Pailón del Diablo waterfall, with plenty of breaks to admire the scenery and take photos.

After visiting the waterfall, we stopped for lunch and enjoyed some of the best empanadas we tasted in Ecuador. Unfortunately, I can’t remember the restaurant’s name!

Rather than tackling the uphill return journey, we caught one of the local trucks that transport cyclists and their bikes back to Baños for a small fee. Much easier!

We absolutely loved this experience. It was the perfect combination of spectacular scenery, a little exercise and plenty of photo opportunities.

Not keen on cycling? You can also explore the Ruta de las Cascadas aboard a chiva, a colourful open-air sightseeing vehicle that stops at several major attractions along the route. It’s a great alternative, although you won’t have quite the same freedom to stop whenever you like.

Our tip: Start early to enjoy quieter roads and allow plenty of time to explore Pailón del Diablo. The cycling route follows sections of a road shared with vehicles, so take care, particularly around tunnels and bends.

Visit Pailón del Diablo Waterfall (Devil’s Cauldron)

One of the most spectacular waterfalls near Baños, Pailón del Diablo, or Devil’s Cauldron, is an absolute must-see. Located near the village of Río Verde, approximately 17 kilometres from Baños, this powerful waterfall plunges around 80 metres into a dramatic gorge surrounded by lush tropical vegetation.

Reaching the waterfall involves a scenic walk along paths and steps through the forest. Several viewpoints offer incredible views of the thundering water, and you can get close enough to feel the spray on your face!

There are also narrow passageways and steep, sometimes slippery steps, so wear sturdy shoes and take extra care in wet conditions.

We visited Pailón del Diablo at the end of our Ruta de las Cascadas cycling adventure, and it was the perfect finale to an already spectacular ride.

Our tip: Bring a waterproof jacket or poncho and protect your camera, as the spray can be intense. Allow at least an hour to explore the viewpoints and enjoy the scenery.

Zip line above a waterfall

That’s right, you can do that in Baños and it is totally awesome! We loved it. You can watch our video below to see just how cool it is. We enjoyed the Tarabita zip lining which goes above one of the waterfalls on the Ruta de la Cascadas. There were two zip lines, one over the gorge and waterfall and then one back across the gorge to where we started from. There’s also the option of taking a little cable car across if you aren’t feeling adventurous but we’d definitely recommend trying the zip line, or maybe you can do both!

Go swinging at La Casa Del Arbol

You’ve probably seen this on Instagram many times and not realised. It’s the swing at the end of the world and it’s one of the most popular things to do in Baños. But if you visit during peak season, you may have to wait up to 45 minutes to try it out. Fortunately, because we visited outside of peak season, we didn’t have to wait at all.

Casa Del Arbol is the original swing but there are several others around Ecuador, including one in Quito at the top of the Teleferico.

The main swing at Casa Del Arbol is a little scary, especially if you’re afraid of heights. However, there are a couple of less scary swings just to the right of it, which I preferred. I also think they were a better location for taking photos.

The whole area is blessed with some pretty awesome scenery, so a trip to Casa Del Arbol is definitely worth doing, even if you are not brave enough to try the swings. The views over the active Tungurahua volcano are also quite stunning.

You can get to Casa Del Arbol by local bus which you can catch from the town centre. We took it from out the front of the bus station and it only cost $1 per person, each way. There was also a small $1 fee to enter Casa Del Arbol. Bargain!

Hike to La Virgen viewpoint for some great views over the town

Just past the hospital in town is a path leading up to the La Virgen viewpoint. Be warned that it takes quite a few sets of stairs to reach the viewpoint. I found it particularly tough, maybe I wasn’t acclimatised enough, or maybe I’m just carrying a few extra kilos from all our months of travelling! Either way, it was worth it. Take your time and enjoy the views along the way, which you can enjoy all the way up. The ones at the top are of course even better, so do make the effort to make it all the way to the viewpoint.

Wander around town

Baños is a really nice little town, so make sure you spend time walking around exploring this cute place. There are colourful old streets to check out, some cool street art to marvel at and it really just has a nice feel to it. Stop at the local market for some local handicrafts or some delicious local food. Sit down in one of the small parks, relax and enjoy life!Relax in the thermal springs

Relax in the thermal springs

After too much hiking or biking, there is no better way to unwind than by going to the hot springs. There are a few thermal baths that are walking distance from the town centre such as the old and new Termas de la Virgen. Alternatively, you can get a taxi out to the fancier Luna Runtun Spa. There, you’ll have some great views of Baños as you soak yourself in the baths!

Visit Las Manos de Dios Viewpoint

For spectacular views over Baños and the surrounding Andes, consider visiting Las Manos de Dios (Hands of God), a unique viewpoint featuring a wooden walkway supported by two enormous sculpted hands.

Located at Rancho Ojos del Volcán, approximately 20–30 minutes from Baños, this photogenic attraction offers panoramic views of the mountains, Pastaza River valley and Tungurahua volcano on clear days.

There are also swings, gardens and other photo spots to explore. It’s a great addition to your Baños itinerary, particularly if you enjoy scenic viewpoints and photography.

Note: This attraction opened after our visit to Baños, so we haven’t experienced it personally.

Sign up for some more adventurous activities

If you like adventure, there’s a lot of it on offer in Baños. You can go paragliding, white water rafting, canyoning, rock climbing, bungee jumping and more. The choice is yours to enjoy!

Is Baños Safe for Tourists?

We absolutely loved Baños and felt comfortable exploring the town during our visit. It’s a popular tourist destination with a welcoming atmosphere, and we enjoyed wandering around its streets, restaurants and attractions.

However, Ecuador’s security situation has changed in recent years, so it’s important to remain vigilant. Petty theft can occur in tourist areas, and more serious crime is a concern in parts of the country.

Our tip: As with any destination, use common sense, keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings. We had a wonderful time in Baños and would happily return!

Is Baños worth visiting? 

Hopefully, after reading this you already know the answer but in case you are still unsure, the answer is 100% yes! Baños was one of our favourite places in Ecuador. It’s fun, beautiful and it’s a great place to hang around for a few days.

Best Time to Visit Baños, Ecuador

Baños is a year-round destination thanks to its mild climate, with daytime temperatures generally ranging between 15°C and 25°C. However, rain is possible at any time of year.

June to September is generally the best time to visit Baños, with relatively drier weather and clearer skies, making it ideal for hiking, cycling the Ruta de las Cascadas and enjoying outdoor adventures.

October to May tends to be wetter, but the extra rainfall makes the waterfalls even more spectacular and the surrounding mountains beautifully green.

Whatever time of year you visit, pack a waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes and a warm layer for cooler evenings. The weather can change quickly in the mountains!

How long should you stay in Baños?

You could see most of the attractions in 2 days if you don’t have much time to spare but we would suggest hanging around for at least 3 or 4 days just to kick back and enjoy this beautiful town. We had only planned 2 days there but after visiting Cuenca, we ended up going back up to Baños for an extra 2 nights on our way to the Amazon.

Heading south from Baños? Consider stopping in Alausí, a charming Andean town famous for its spectacular Devil’s Nose Train. It’s a wonderful place to break up the journey to Cuenca and experience a quieter side of Ecuador.

How to get to Baños from Quito? 

We took the Wanderbus from Quito to Cuenca, stopping at Baños along the way. We loved this option because it was not just another boring bus ride with very little breaks. Instead, we stopped in Cotopaxi, Pujuli and Quilotoa for some sightseeing. The bus was comfortable and our guide also helped us with tips on what to do in Baños.

However, you can also take a local bus from Quito down to Baños. It takes approximately 4 hours. Head to the Terminal Terrestre Quitumbe station in Quito, which is the main bus station in the south of the city. You can buy a bus ticket at the counter on the day. The bus may also stop in the town of Ambato along the way.

How to Get Around Baños

Baños is a small, walkable town, and most restaurants, shops and attractions in the centre can easily be reached on foot. You certainly don’t need a car!

By bicycle: Renting a bike is a fantastic way to explore the surrounding countryside, particularly the famous Ruta de las Cascadas.

By taxi: Taxis are affordable and convenient for reaching attractions further from town, such as La Casa del Árbol. Agree on the fare before setting off.

By local bus: Budget-friendly buses connect Baños with nearby villages, waterfalls and viewpoints. Organised tours are another easy option for exploring further afield.

Our tip: Stay close to the town centre so you can walk to restaurants and attractions without needing transport.

Where to stay in Banos

Balcón del Cielo – Best for Beautiful Views

We stayed at Balcón del Cielo during our visit to Baños and really enjoyed it! The highlight was undoubtedly the spectacular views over the river gorge from the balconies. The rooms were clean and comfortable, and the owners and staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming. It’s a lovely, affordable option for travellers who appreciate a beautiful view without spending a fortune.

Hostal D’Mathias – Best for Budget Travellers

For travellers looking for affordable accommodation in Baños, Hostal D’Mathias is a great option. This friendly hostel offers simple, clean and comfortable rooms, along with shared facilities and a convenient location close to the town centre. It’s particularly well suited to backpackers and budget-conscious travellers who want to explore Baños without spending a fortune.

Hotel Volcano Baños – Best for a Comfortable Mid-Range Stay

Hotel Volcano Baños is a lovely mid-range option for travellers wanting a little extra comfort without breaking the bank. With comfortable rooms, an outdoor swimming pool and beautiful mountain views, it’s a great place to relax after a day exploring Baños’ waterfalls and hiking trails. Its convenient location also makes it easy to reach the town’s restaurants and attractions.

Samari Spa Resort – Best for a Luxury Stay

For a little luxury, Samari Spa Resort is a beautiful retreat surrounded by lush gardens and spectacular mountain scenery. This elegant resort offers spacious rooms, an indoor swimming pool, spa facilities and a peaceful atmosphere away from the busy town centre. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of adventure, particularly for couples looking for a romantic escape.

Continuing your Ecuador adventure? Don’t miss Cuenca, one of Ecuador’s most beautiful cities, with its colourful colonial streets, magnificent cathedral and nearby Cajas National Park. It was another of our favourite destinations in Ecuador!

FAQs About Visiting Baños, Ecuador

Is Baños Expensive for Tourists?

Baños is a relatively affordable destination, with plenty of budget-friendly accommodation, inexpensive restaurants and reasonably priced activities. However, adventure tours such as rafting, canyoning and ziplining can quickly add to your expenses.

Can You See Tungurahua Volcano from Baños?

Yes! On clear days, you can enjoy spectacular views of Tungurahua volcano from viewpoints around Baños. However, clouds often obscure the summit, so you’re not guaranteed a view.

Planning a longer trip around Ecuador? Check out our One Month Ecuador Itinerary for inspiration! From Quito and the spectacular Andes to charming colonial towns and incredible natural landscapes, it’s the perfect starting point for planning your own Ecuador adventure.

Read More

Our Complete Guide to Quito, Ecuador

An Amazing 10-Day Tour of the Galapagos Islands with G Adventures