Nestled in the Andes, on the edge of the Amazon, sits Baños de Agua Santa, Ecuador. Originally famous for its natural hot springs, Baños is now an adventure hub, perfect for travelers looking to step outside their comfort zones.
The High Life
If heights are your thing, Baños is the place for you. From ziplines to bungee jumping to cable cars, this valley is filled with opportunities to defy gravity.
Perhaps the most famous of these attractions is the Swing at the End of the World. This swing is located at the top of a mountain, providing visitors an unforgettable view and the perfect photo opportunity from an incomparable vantage point overlooking the Tungurahua volcano.
Chasing Waterfalls
If hiking is more your speed, there are countless trails you can look into. In particular, Baños is home to myriad waterfalls of all sizes. From the stunning Pailón del Diablo (Cauldron of the Devil) to the Cascada del Silencio (Waterfall of Silence), the options are endless. Both beginners and seasoned hikers will find trails to suit their needs and views to remember forever.
The Day Trips
If you’re looking for a longer adventure, try taking a day trip. Baños offers countless ways to explore the Andes. Go canyoneering on a guided tour or try white water rafting on the Pastaza River. You can even rent bikes for the day, grab a taxi to the top of the mountain, and ride your way down. Whatever your style of adventure, Baños is filled with opportunities to explore this gorgeous landscape.
Time to Unwind
When you’re done with all the adventure, take some time to relax. Harkening back to its roots as a hot spring hub, Baños is now filled with spas that provide massages, facials, and other ways to wind down.
If you have a bit of a sweet tooth, consider visiting Fábrica Mágica de Chocolate, a local chocolate factory. You could also explore the wide variety of shops and restaurants in town.
Whether you’re ziplining across cliffs or lounging in the hot springs, Baños has everything you need to escape for a week or two and create memories that will last a lifetime.
—Phoebe Carroll