Baños

Ecuador, South America

Baños, known as the 'Gateway to the Amazon,' is famous for its stunning waterfalls, lush green landscapes, and adventure activities. Visitors can explore the breathtaking Pailón del Diablo waterfall, soak in natural hot springs, and partake in thrilling adventures like bungee jumping, zip-lining, and canyoning. Baños also offers a vibrant nightlife and is surrounded by breathtaking mountains, making it a paradise for nature and adventure enthusiasts alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Town

Vibe

Active

Airport

Chachoan

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Baños

1

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Pailón del Diablo Waterfall

Witness the breathtaking power of this stunning waterfall.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the thermal baths

Relax in natural hot springs surrounded by scenic views.

No booking required
3

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Go white-water rafting

Experience thrilling rapids on the Pastaza River.

Booking required
4

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Hike to Tungurahua Volcano

Trek to stunning views of this active volcano.

No booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Try the swing at Casa del Arbol

Experience the thrill of swinging over the abyss.

No booking required
6

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Ride a bike on the Ruta de las Cascadas

Cycle through stunning landscapes and waterfalls.

No booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Church of the Virgin of the Holy Water

Admire beautiful architecture and spiritual ambiance.

No booking required
8

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Take a canyoning tour

Rappel down waterfalls for an adrenaline rush.

Booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Enjoy local cuisine at a market

Taste authentic Ecuadorian dishes from local vendors.

No booking required
10

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend a festival or local event

Experience vibrant culture and traditions of Baños.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Included in bill

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

3 (#44 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

US Dollar

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Encebollado

Fish stew with yuca and onions (National dish)

Ceviche

Citrus-marinated seafood dish

Llapingachos

V

Potato patties served with peanut sauce

Hornado

Roasted pork with crispy skin

Seco de Chivo

Goat stew with spices and beer

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)