A Detailed Guide to the Baños and Upper Amazon Day Trip in Quito

The Baños and Upper Amazon Day Trip in Quito is a fantastic choice for anyone in the Ecuadorian capital wanting to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The trip starts in the heart of the Quito and then takes you on a thrilling journey through the forests of the Amazon rainforest, finishing up with a visit to Baños, an enchanting 15th century Spanish colonial city located at the foot of the Ecuadorian Andes mountains.

This day trip is sure to offer you unforgettable memories as you explore some of the most picturesque scenery in South America. Not only will you take in some of the most breathtaking views of the Amazon jungle, but you will also have an exciting and fun time enjoying several outdoor activities such as mountain biking, rafting, and visit the famous Tungurahua volcano. Plus, you’ll also get to visit some of Baños’ landmarks, among them the Virgen del Amor Miracle church, the mineral hot springs and the Runtun suspension bridge.

What You Can Expect on Your Baños and Upper Amazon Day Trip in Quito

Your Baños and Upper Amazon Day Trip in Quito promises a magical mix of nature, culture, and adventure that is sure to be unlike anything else you’ve ever experienced. As soon as your tour starts you will be treated to magnificent views Quito’s architecture and monuments. You can take some time to enjoy walking around, before starting your journey into the Amazon rainforest.

The Amazon section of your day entails a thrilling adventure through all sorts of natural spectacles. You will be jumping onto a boat and sailing your way to the Pañacocha Reserve, located in Quinindé in the Esmeraldas province. Here, you will spot wild monkeys, turtles, amazing flora and more during your sightseeing cruise on a local motorboat and canoe. Along the way, you will also enjoy a traditional Ecuadorian lunch. After your Amazon adventure, you will travel to Baños, where you can take in some of the most spectacular views of the surrounding area, as well as see some of the most popular landmarks in the city. You can take part in exciting activities such as mountain biking and rafting and spend some time visiting the Virgen del Amor Miracle church, hot springs, and the Runtun suspension bridge, among others.

What To Consider Before Plannning Your Baños & Upper Amazon Day Trip

Planning your Baños & Upper Amazon Day Trip in Quito is a great way to experience some of the best scenery Ecuador has to offer – however, if you don’t book with a trusted tour operator you might miss out on some incredible sights. Thankfully, GetYourGuide offers this amazing day trip and I’ve had both a reliable and unforgettable experience when booking with them.

On GetYourGuide’s Baños & Upper Amazon Day Trip, there is something for everyone – whether you’re looking for a relaxing cruise along the Amazon while admiring its natural beauty or whether you want to dive into a little bit of adrenaline-spiking adventure as you hike or bike along its trails or navigate around its rapids in a raft.

In my opinion, GetYourGuide provides great value for money and an unbeatable selection of outdoor activities that guarantee a truly amazing day so don’t just consider booking with any other tour operator out there – GetYourGuide have plenty of recommendations from travelers worldwide so trust their services if you want to make this an unforgettable journey. From personal experience I know that GetYourGuide’s travel advisors are experienced professionals and really care about making your experience as pleasant as possible so don’t forget to check out all the options they offer!

By booking through GetYourGuide you can rest assured knowing that all tour operators underlying their service are qualified professionals who strive to provide an exclusive quality product with dedicated customer service. What’s more is that GetYourGuide also offers secure online payments which guarantee that you can get a full refund if your tour gets canceled due to any unexpected circumstances. So don’t miss out – book your Baños & Upper Amazon Day Trip in Quito now through GetYourGuide and make sure to get the most out of this incredible experience!

An Insider’s Guide to Quito, Ecuador

When visiting Quito, the capital city of Ecuador, there are some well-known attractions like La Ronda, El Panecillo, and Plaza Grande that should definitely be on every traveler’s itinerary. However, for those who want to experience Quito like a local, there are some hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path places that are worth discovering. Here’s an insider’s guide to Quito that will enhance your experience of this charming city.

Local Attractions

While we highly recommend the famous tourist attractions in Quito, there are some lesser-known places that are worth exploring. For instance, the Guayasamin Museum is a must-visit place for art enthusiasts. This museum houses the largest collection of Ecuadorian artist Oswaldo Guayasamin’s works. You can also take a stroll through Parque Metropolitano. This beautiful park is a favorite spot for runners and walkers and offers breathtaking views of the city.

Another lesser-known attraction that you should visit is San Juan Market. This is not only a place to buy fresh produce, but it’s a cultural experience where you can see how locals live their daily lives. You will find colorful fruits, exotic herbs and spices, and traditional Andean crafts. It’s an ideal spot to learn about the local culture and take some Instagram-worthy photos.

Dining Spots

Quito is known for an array of delicious food, ranging from traditional Andean dishes to international cuisine. One must-try dish is the locro de papas, a hearty potato soup with avocado and cheese. The most authentic version of this dish can be found at La Cuchara de San Marcos. Another dish worth trying is the hornado, a slow-roasted pork dish that is crispy on the outside and tender inside. You can find this dish at many locations, but for an authentic experience, head to La Casa del Hornado.

Quito has a rich history, culture, and heritage, which is reflected in its food. A great way to explore the city’s food culture is by taking a food tour. One such tour is organized by Urban Adventures, where you can savor local cuisine while exploring some of the lesser-known parts of the city.

Cultural Experiences

One of the best ways to experience Quito’s culture is by visiting the Old Town. This part of town has been named a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its well-preserved colonial architecture. Get lost in the narrow cobbled streets and let the colorful buildings take you back in time. There are many hidden courtyards and churches that are scattered throughout this area, each with its unique story.

Another cultural experience that you must not miss is visiting the Mitad del Mundo monument. This monument marks the equator line, the imaginary line that divides the northern and southern hemispheres. You can stand on this line and be in both the northern and southern hemispheres at the same time!

Local History

Quito has a fascinating history, and it is evident as soon as you step foot in the city. One of the most captivating stories is the Battle of Pichincha. This battle took place in 1822 between the Spanish army and the troops led by Simon Bolivar. It was a significant battle for the independence of Ecuador, which led to the liberation of Quito from the Spanish rule.

Another story that you should know is about the Independence Square. This square has been the political center of Quito for centuries. It was here that the declaration of independence from Spain was signed in 1809. The square also played a significant role in the protests that led up to the ousting of former President Jamil Mahuad.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a unique and unforgettable experience, we suggest visiting one of the many indigenous communities around Quito. You can explore these communities through a cultural tour that includes a visit to their homes, traditional meals, and learning about their way of life. This is an excellent way to support the local communities, learn about their culture, and have a memorable experience.

Another suggestion is to take a hot air balloon ride over the Andes Mountains. You can see some of the most incredible landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, and lush forests. It’s an unforgettable experience that you won’t regret.

With this insider’s guide to Quito, we hope you have a fantastic trip, discovering places like a local, indulging in the food culture, experiencing cultural events, and learning about the history and traditions of this beautiful city.