Everything You Need to Know About the Waterfalls of Baños de Agua Santa Guided Tour

If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping and nature-filled excursion when visiting Quito, look no further than the Waterfalls of Baños de Agua Santa Guided Tour! Located just a 1.5 hour drive away, Baños de Agua Santa, or “Baths of Holy Water”, is a small town known as the “Gateway to the Amazon”. It is here that you can journey through lush rainforests, charged waterfalls, and naturally formed rock pools.

This tour provides an opportunity for adventure seekers to explore the hidden gems of Baños. On this excursion you will visit 6 different points of interest. From rappelling down the powerful Manto de la Novia falls to trekking through the Cabellera De la Virgen route, this is a nature-filled day that you won’t soon forget.

Things To Know Before You Go

When planning your trip, be sure to remember a few key things. First, it is recommended that you bring sturdy walking shoes, lightweight long trousers and a long sleeve shirt. Lodging is not included so you will need to either book a place in advance or the tour guide can arrange it for you at an additional cost. Finally, be sure to factor in plenty of time for locating parking and to familiarize yourself with the trail.

Highlights of the Tour

When you embark on the Waterfalls of Baños de Agua Santa Guided Tour, you will visit 6 key sites throughout the day. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect:

• Las Pailas Waterfall: Located in the small town of San Eduardo, this waterfall is 25 meters high and offers breathtaking views.
• Cabellera De La Virgen Route: Translated to “the Virgin’s Hair Route”, this one kilometer-long pathway follows an old Incan trading route.
• Gorropata Waterfall: Sitting at 35 meters tall, Gorropata is a stunning waterfall experience like no other.
• Rappelling The Manto De La Novia Falls: This rappel descent is 140 meters and offers a natural rock formed pool at its base.
• Manto De La Novia Viewing Point: Enjoy panoramic vistas overlooking the Manto De La Novia falls.
• San Martin Waterfall: Picture your own idyllic grotto–the San Martin waterfall is 40 meters in height and has a small lagoon at its base.

What To Bring Along On Your Tour

When participating in water activities such as this, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s a quick checklist of things you’ll need to bring along:

• Sunscreen: The sun can be quite strong in Baños due to its location at 1,857 meters above sea level.
• Clothing: Be sure to dress appropriately! Bring lightweight long trousers and a long sleeve shirt.
• Swimsuit: Unless you plan on skipping the natural pools, don’t forget your swimsuit.
• Waterproof Camera: With 6 different points of interest, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to capture your adventure on camera.
• Binoculars: These are helpful when viewing wildlife or scenery from afar.
• Insect Repellent: Mosquitos tend to be quite active near rivers and swamps—pack your own bug spray to avoid any nasty bites!
• Snacks & Drinks: You’ll likely be quite active on the tour, so come prepared with enough snacks and refreshments to carry you through the day.

Once you have all of the above items in check, make sure to also bring along a valid identification card as well as any other necessary paperwork for entry into Ecuador. With these items checked off your list and your camera fully charged, you’re all set for an unforgettable experience!

Conclusion

Exploring the Waterfalls of Baños de Agua Santa Guided Tour is the perfect way to get back in touch with nature when visiting Quito. From rappelling down 140 meters of pure waterfall bliss to strolling along Incan trails, the natural wonders witnessed on this tour exceed expectations. If this sounds like an excursion that you and your group are interested in, book now on GetYourGuide. Don’t miss out on the beauty that awaits in Baños de Agua Santa!

An Insider’s Guide to Baños de Agua Santa

If you’re planning a trip to South America, a visit to Baños de Agua Santa is an absolute must. Tucked away in Ecuador’s lush Andes Mountains, this charming town is best known for its stunning waterfalls, hot springs, and outdoor activities. But beyond these attractions, there’s a wealth of local experiences and hidden gems that even seasoned travelers might miss. Here’s our insider’s guide to Baños de Agua Santa that will make your trip unforgettable.

Local Attractions

While the waterfalls of Baños are undeniably beautiful, there are other lesser-known sites worth visiting. For instance, the Pailón del Diablo bridge offers incredible views of the valley and is a perfect spot for thrill-seekers to feel the water’s mist and fresh air. Another hidden gem in Baños is El Tren de la Dulzura, a train that departs from the town’s central station and takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country, including waterfalls and volcanoes.

Dining Spots

Ecuadorian cuisine is rich in flavor and variety, and Baños offers several options for foodies. One of the best spots is El Hogar de Juan, a family-run restaurant that serves traditional dishes like llapingachos (potato pancakes stuffed with cheese), ceviche, and guinea pig (a delicacy in Ecuador). Interestingly, Juan himself is a well-known character in town, and his stories about the town and the food are worth a visit.

Cultural Experiences

Baños is also a place of rich culture and arts, with plenty of festivals and traditions throughout the year. For instance, the Baños International Folklore Festival, held every October, celebrates the town’s Andean roots through music, dance, and food. Another cultural destination is the Museo Luis A. Martínez, where visitors can learn about the town’s history and marvel at artifacts like stone weapons and pottery.

Local History

Baños has a captivating past that is worth exploring. One of the most notable stories is about the town’s name itself. It is said that when the Spanish explorers first arrived in the area, they stumbled upon a hot spring used by the indigenous population to heal their wounds. Impressed by the healing properties, they christened the place ‘Baños de Agua Santa’ or ‘Holy Water Baths.’ Another intriguing fact is that during Ecuador’s struggle for independence, several battles took place in the area, and Baños became a crucial strategic spot for the rebels.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Finally, for those seeking unique experiences, Baños has plenty to offer. One such option is hiking to the Casa del Árbol, where visitors can swing over the edge of a mountain on a tree swing and enjoy a spectacular view of the Tungurahua volcano. Another option is white-water rafting, where adventurers can feel the rush of adrenaline while navigating through rapids. Lastly, thermal baths like La Virgen are an excellent way to relax and rejuvenate in the warm and soothing waters.

In conclusion, Baños de Agua Santa has a lot to offer visitors, from natural wonders to cultural experiences and unique adventures. By exploring beyond the usual tourist spots, you can immerse yourself in the town’s rich history, traditions, and local attractions, creating memories that last a lifetime.