Things To Do
in Baños
Baños de Agua Santa, often simply Baños, is a lush mountain town in Ecuador's central highlands set along the Pastaza River. It is famed for dramatic waterfalls, thermal springs, and an outdoor-adventure spirit that draws hikers, rafters, and nature lovers. The town blends vibrant markets, friendly faces, and easy access to cloud forests and volcano views, all enveloped by a cool Andean climate.
Surrounded by active geology and lush greenery, Baños feels like a compact playground for exploration and relaxation alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Baños and settle into your accommodation, taking a moment to refresh after your journey. Stroll around the charming town center, admiring colorful buildings and local artisans. Grab a fresh juice from a nearby café to energize yourself for the day ahead.
Explore the stunning waterfalls surrounding Baños, starting with the iconic Pailon del Diablo. Hike along the scenic paths to witness the grandeur of cascading waters while capturing breathtaking photos. Relish a traditional Ecuadorian lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of the Andean region.
Unwind in one of the thermal baths that Baños is famous for, soaking in the warm, mineral-rich waters. Enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local eatery, indulging in hearty Ecuadorian cuisine. As the night deepens, consider taking a night walk to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the town lit up under the stars.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast, fueling up for a day full of adventure activities. Take a guided rafting trip down the Pastaza River, where the rapids promise an exhilarating experience. Enjoy the lush landscapes surrounding you as you navigate the whitewater.
After your rafting adventure, have lunch at a riverside café to recharge. Spend your afternoon zip-lining over the lush valleys that Baños offers, experiencing an adrenaline rush with stunning views. Don’t forget to capture the moment with a few photos as you glide through the treetops.
Return to town and relax over a dinner of fresh seafood or traditional meat dishes. If you’re up for it, check out local live music at a nearby bar, immersing yourself in Ecuadorian culture. Wind down by strolling along the riverbank, taking in the calming sounds of nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🚕One-way taxi ride (within town) | $1-3 |
| 🏨Hotel room (mid-range) | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning waterfalls and outdoor adventure options
- Compact town with a friendly, laid-back vibe
- Nightlife is relatively low-key compared to big cities
- Weather can be unpredictable and trails can be slippery in the wet season
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hable inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Baños
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic, powerful waterfall just outside Baños with fantastic viewpoints along a scenic trail.
Iconic viewpoint and swing perched near a ravine, offering dramatic photos with the river and canyon below.
Riverside viewpoints and bridges ideal for golden-hour photography and reflections.
Colorful church façade and nearby town scenes—great for street photography and portraits.
Food in Baños
Baños Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-roasted pork served with mote (corn) and llapingachos (potato pancakes); commonly found in local eateries and markets.
Must-Try!
Grilled trout from the Pastaza River, usually plated with yucca, plantains, or potatoes.
Pan-fried potato cakes often served with chorizo or eggs; a staple at many traditional spots.
Roasted guinea pig offered at some traditional restaurants; inquire in advance as availability varies.
Corn-based tamales or fresh humitas, typically enjoyed as a snack or light meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling local market where you can sample mote con chicharrón, llapingachos, fresh fruit juices, and street snacks.
Casual vendors offering empanadas, grilled corn, tostadas, and other quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Spanish is the primary language. Greet with 'Buenos días/tardes' and use polite forms like 'por favor' and 'gracias'. Some Indigenous communities nearby may speak Quechua.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or sacred sites. Ask before taking photos of people, especially in markets or with performers.
Tipping is appreciated for good service. In markets, be friendly and acknowledge vendors; bargaining is common but done respectfully.
Safety
Tipping in Baños
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ecuador, hotel staff and tour guides typically appreciate small tips. If service is not included, a 5–10% tip at restaurants is common and appreciated for good service.
U.S. dollars are used in Baños. Cash is widely accepted; many places also take credit/debit cards, especially in hotels and larger eateries. ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mostly sunny days with cooler evenings; ideal for outdoor activities, hiking, and bridge viewpoints. Trails are generally dry and comfortable.
Frequent afternoon showers and higher humidity; lush landscapes and strong river flows. Pack a lightweight rain jacket and waterproof footwear.
Baños at Night
Hiking in Baños
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular trail to a powerful, scenic waterfall with several viewpoints and photo ops.
Short, scenic route to the dam and a dramatic bridge over the canyon for panoramic shots.
Airports
How to reach Baños by plane.
Main international gateway to Ecuador; about a 3–4 hour drive to Baños depending on road conditions.
Smaller regional airport with domestic flights; typically a 1.5–2 hour drive to Baños.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Mestizo communities with Indigenous influences in the surrounding areas; strong families and community networks.
International visitors drawn to adventure activities and natural scenery; a growing number of hostel and small hotel options.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
White-water rafting on the Pastaza River is a signature Baños activity.
Waterfall rappels and canyoning adventures through local canyons.
Canopy tours offering aerial views of canyons and forests.
Waterfalls trails and highland viewpoints are popular with day hikers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Baños.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in most restaurants; look for veggie mains, salads, empanadas, and side dishes. If a dish appears to be meat-based, ask for a vegetarian substitution and confirm whether broth or stock is meat-based.