How to Plan Your Baños and Upper Amazon Day Trip from Quito

Are you planning a trip to Quito, Ecuador, and looking for an exciting adventure? Consider a day trip to Baños and the Upper Amazon! This unique experience allows you to see breathtaking scenery, untouched tropical rainforests, and towering waterfalls all in one day. Here’s how to plan your day trip:

Booking Your Tour

The first step to planning your Baños and Upper Amazon Day Trip is booking your tour. We recommend using GetYourGuide for a hassle-free experience. The tour costs $90 per person and includes transportation, a bilingual guide, and all entrance fees. You can book your tour at the following link: Book the Tour Here

What to Expect

Your tour will begin with a pick-up at your hotel in Quito at 7:30 am. From there, you’ll drive through the Avenue of the Volcanoes, where you can admire stunning mountains like Antisana, Los Ilinizas, Cotopaxi, and Tungurahua. Your first stop will be Baños de Agua Santa, a city located at 1820 meters above sea level with natural hot springs and a natural entrance to the Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest.

In Baños, you’ll have the opportunity to take exciting walks through pristine tropical rainforests full of vegetation. You’ll also have the chance to practice adrenaline sports right in front of towering waterfalls, so be sure to bring comfortable shoes and clothes that can get wet.

After exploring Baños, you’ll head to the world-famous Devil’s Cauldron waterfall, where you can take in gorgeous scenery and learn about the local lifestyle from friendly and welcoming people.

What to Bring

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, we recommend bringing the following items:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothes
• Sunscreen and a hat or sunglasses
• A waterproof camera or phone case
• A small backpack to carry your belongings

Conclusion

Overall, a day trip to Baños and the Upper Amazon offers a unique and unforgettable experience for anyone visiting Quito. By booking your tour through GetYourGuide, you can ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable adventure filled with stunning scenery, exciting adrenaline sports, and friendly people. Don’t forget to bring comfortable clothes and shoes and a waterproof camera to capture all of the unforgettable moments!

An Insider’s Guide to Baños, Ecuador

Baños, Ecuador is a picturesque city located south of Quito, nestled in the foothills of the Andes mountains. Known for its natural hot springs, stunning waterfalls, and outdoor adventure activities, Baños is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. Here is a comprehensive guide on what to see, eat, and experience while visiting this charming city.

Attractions

One of the main attractions in Baños is the Casa del Árbol, a treehouse with a swing that hangs off the edge of a cliff. The swing provides adventurers with an unobstructed view of the Tungurahua volcano and the surrounding valley. Visitors can also take a ride on the popular cable car, TelefériQo, which offers breathtaking views of the city and its surrounding landscapes.

For those who love waterfalls, Baños has plenty of them. The most popular is the Pailón del Diablo, which translates to “Devil’s Cauldron.” To get there, visitors can take a short hike through lush greenery and cross a towering suspension bridge that spans the gorge. Another waterfall worth visiting is the Cascada de Agoyán, which is surrounded by lush greenery and cascades down multiple tiers.

For a more cultural experience, the Museum of the Holy Water, Museo del Agua, is a must-visit destination in Baños. The museum showcases the history and culture of the city and how its location, nestled at the base of the Tungurahua volcano, has shaped its growth and development.

Dining Spots

Baños has an array of dining options to choose from, ranging from street vendors to sit-down restaurants. One of the most popular and top-rated restaurants is Café Hood. The restaurant’s decor is cozy and chic, and it serves a well-thought-out menu featuring fresh and healthy ingredients.

Another highly-rated restaurant is Casa Hood. This family-owned establishment offers visitors an authentic Ecuadorian dining experience, with traditional dishes such as Canelazo, which is a delicious hot drink made from aguardiente, sugar cane, and spices. Los Tambores is a great spot to grab a quick and hearty snack, famous for its empanadas, which are a pastry filled with meat and vegetables.

Cultural Experiences

One of the most distinctive cultural traditions in Baños is the Fiesta de la Mama Negra, held on September 24th each year. The celebration honors Mama Negra, a divine figure who is believed to have healing powers. During the festival, a parade takes place, featuring music, dancing, and colorful costumes. At the end of the parade, there is a ceremony where the Mama Negra appears to bless the attendees.

Another cultural experience that should not be missed is visiting one of Baños’s many hot springs. The hot springs provide a perfect opportunity to relax and soak your muscles after a long day of hiking and exploring.

Local History

Baños has been known since ancient times for its natural hot springs, which the indigenous people of the region considered sacred. During the Spanish colonial era, Baños was a significant stopover point for traders, and the city’s growth was fueled by the mining and agriculture industries.

In the modern era, Baños has transformed into a tourist destination that attracts people from all over the world. With its stunning natural attractions and rich culture, it is not hard to see why.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For those looking for a unique adventure experience, Baños offers paragliding, where visitors can soar above the city and surrounding landscapes and take in the beautiful scenery from high in the air.

Another off-the-beaten-path suggestion is visiting the Mercado de las Flores. This bustling market sells an array of beautiful and colorful flowers native to the region, making it a perfect place to immerse yourself in the local culture. Visitors can also sample local fruits and vegetables while exploring the market’s bustling stalls.

In summary, Baños, Ecuador is a hidden gem that should not be missed by any traveler visiting South America. With its stunning natural landmarks, rich culture, and delicious cuisine, Baños has something to offer everyone.