The Absolute Best Things to do in Baños, Ecuador

2020 Updated information about the best things to do in Baños for those who want to relax, and those who want to experience some of the sporting activities available.

Found deep in a small valley in Ecuador, Baños (or Baños de Agua Santa) is a picturesque haven for all lovers of the outdoors. It boasts inviting hot springs that are surrounded by icy-cool waterfalls. Its serene setting hosts a variety of extreme sports, creating a welcoming juxtaposition of the tranquil landscapes. From taking on extreme sports to lazing in hot springs, there are many exciting things to do in Baños de Agua Santa, Ecuador.

The city is also nestled in the foothills of the Tungurahua Volcano aka ‘The Giant’ or ‘Throat of Fire’. Tungurahua is an active volcano, and so occasionally you may see it smoking. This shouldn’t disrupt any of the best things to do in Baños, so don’t worry!

Rafting Tours in Baños

Face the white waters of the river accompanied by a trained professional guide. There are rafting tours available for all levels of skill, so the only thing stopping you is yourself! This is one of the best things to do in Baños! Find your perfect rafting tour here.

Rafting en Rio Pastaza

Relax and Unwind in Baños Hot Springs

Relax and chill out, ridding yourself of all the stress and tiredness of travel in the thermal baths of Baños. These baths are the namesake of the town, and so treat yourself to unwind in the naturally warm waters. More than just heat, the water here is known to have incredible healing powers, helping to soothe and cure a huge variety of aches and pains. This is what makes them the perfect way to relax after a few days of trekking, cycling or rafting, and one of the best things to do in Baños.

There are several baths in the city, the most popular of which is the Termas de la Vigen. However, if you really cannot get enough of the excitement that Baños has to offer, then head over to Termas de la Virgen Recreativas. This is designed as a water park with slides and both hot and cool natural pools.

hot springs in baños

Swing at The End of The World

The Swing at the End of The World hangs from the Casa del Arbol at the top of the valley. It became much more popular after a video of a traveler swinging from the top of it went viral. The swing sees travelers flying over the edge of a 2600 meter slope, and is known to be a thrilling experience. On a clear day, you can even see the great Mt. Tungurahua from the swing. There are tour options available, so don’t hesitate to find out why this is one of the best things to do in Baños.

best things to do in baños- swing at the end of the world

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Visit the Pailon del Diablo

The Pailon Del Diablo, (the Devil’s Cauldron in English), is named after its distinctly shaped rocks that shape the most impressive waterfall in Baños. These rocks seem to take the face of the devil when looked at closely. You can access this site by crossing the suspension bridge close by. You can also climb up and down the spiral staircase close to the falls so that you can truly appreciate the views of this fall, and get up close, personal, and a little wet.

pailon del diablo baños

Hike to Tungurahua Volcano

Located just 36 km away from the beautiful city, Tungurahua Volcano boasts a height of 5016 meters. This giant is the home of an active crater that measures 600 square feet. Due to its increased activity since 1999, the actual peak of Tungurahua has become dangerous, causing the climbing conditions to be in a state of fluctuation of safe and not safe. It is imperative to check with locals and officials before planning your hike.

However, you can climb to the refuge nestled at 3830 meters, just 3.5km below the summit with no climbing equipment or specialist gear. It is a vantage point that commands sweeping views of the city and rolling hills.

Tungurahua volcano in Baños

Go Canyoning in Baños

Canyoning is another great adrenaline-pumping activity found in Baños. You can find a canyoning tour online. Taking a canyoning tour means you will need to brave different adventurous activities to work your way down a waterfall canyon. These can include cliff jumping, zip-lining, water rappelling, and more. It is an adventure-filled day with plenty of different activities.

canyoning in baños

Zip Lining and Canopying Baños

Ziplining is one of the best things to do in Baños. Take to the skies and experience some of the most incredible and unique views of the valley below. Try to book this activity in advance so that you can be sure of your spot. We recommend using Findlocaltrips.com to find the tour right for you so that you can be sure to be with the most professional guides possible. You can choose between several routes or even the second-longest zipline in South America.

ziplining baños

Ruta de las Cascadas

This is a wonderful walk that takes you around some 50-something of Baños’ waterfalls. You can opt to cycle this route (bikes are available to rent from your hostel or around town) or you can brave it on foot. Either way you will spend your day appreciating the true beauty of the Ecuadorian countryside.

Waterfall Baños Ecuador

These are some of the best things to do in Baños, but there’s more than this to discover! The only issue many travelers have with Baños is making sure that they have enough time to discover all of the incredible things that there are to do here. Fall in love, not just with the town, but with all of the best things to do in Baños.