While planning my trip to Baños, Ecuador, I was ecstatic! As an adventurous traveler and a bit of an adrenaline junkie, I was so excited to visit one of the world’s best places for adventure on a budget. Here are some of the best things to do and a guide to Baños, Ecuador for thrill-seekers!
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Visit Baños’ Waterfalls
Baños is placed in a foothill of the Tungurahua volcano. Due to this, it is surrounded on all sides by mountains and waterfalls!
One of the most popular things to do in Baños is to visit the abundance of waterfalls. My favorite in the area was Pailon del Diablo, or the Devil’s Cauldron. It’s the top-rated destination in Baños and deemed one of the most beautiful waterfalls in South America.
The hike to Pailon del Diablo can be a bit tough if you have not acclimated to Ecuador’s high altitude yet or are not an avid hiker. However, it is definitely worth it! Visitors trek alongside a stunning river, over suspension bridges, and down stairs carved from the cliffs next to the waterfall. To get the best view, make your way down the stairs to stand right next to the fall! (You WILL get wet!)
Hike, Bike, or ATV the Many Trails
Baños is full of stunning hiking and mountain biking trails winding through the mountains, volcano, and surrounding waterfalls. However, many visitors opt to rent an ATV or other offroading vehicle to get a bit more of a thrill. Depending on where you go, you will be offered a rental or a tour through the surrounding jungle.
Visit Baños’ Swing at the End of the World
The Instagram famous swing is found just outside of Baños and is very easy to get to. Every cab in the area knows it, and every guide to Baños, Ecuador has it on its list.
The swing dangles from Casa del Arbol, the most famous treehouse in the world! From there, you get stunning views of the active Tungurahua volcano, bright flowers, and even wildlife such as hummingbirds in the gardens. This is the perfect place to snap that perfect photo!
Face your Fear of Heights
The mountainous region of Baños is also perfect for thrilling activities in the air. Visitors can enjoy an abundance of zipline parks, canyoning waterfalls, and even bridge jumping!
I opted for the most extreme activity: bridge jumping. This was my very first time on any kind of bungee jump, and as you can see from the video, I panicked last minute. Instead of swinging in a large arc from the top of the bridge, I fell straight down and was jerked to the side by my rope. I had some nasty bruises around my butt for a week, but the thrill was worth it!
Before choosing a location or company to partake in any of these extreme activities, double-check their reviews online, and get a glimpse at their equipment. Most activities in Baños are incredibly affordable by US standards (my bridge jump and DVD cost $20USD). The majority of these activities will be completely safe, but always do a quick background check just in case!
Head to the Water for Rafting and Parasailing
The River Pastaza is full of class III and IV rapids, perfect for white water rafting! A local guide in Baños, Ecuador will be incredibly knowledgeable and will have all the necessary equipment for a safe trip. You will also go through some training at the start. Newbies shouldn’t be afraid!
For a less intense ride, but one with stunning views of the surrounding jungle, why not try parasailing? You’ll get a small thrill as you rise up quickly from the back of a boat, but will enjoy the calm ride and views once you’re in the air.
Trek into the Amazon near Baños, Ecuador
Baños sits just outside of the Amazon jungle. Why not take a tour into the largest rainforest in the world?
You’ll find dozens of tours from day trips to overnight treks. Pick one that’s right for you and your budget! We found a day trip through our hostel. However, I suggest using Geotours to find a tour! They offer Amazon tours, hiking trips, white water rafting, parasailing, and gliding…pretty much everything in this article!
Soak up in a….Baños?
For those who have taken ANY Spanish, you must be wondering, Why is this city in Ecuador named after a bathroom? Baños’ full name is actually Baños de Agua Santa, and is named for the abundance of natural volcanic hot springs in the area.
After a long day of adventure and maybe a few sore muscles, a long soak in a hot spring is exactly what you need! Hot springs will cost you from $2 to $20 per person, depending on the quality of the spring and the views offered. Some of the more luxury hotels in the area will also have their own hot springs for guests!
Whatever type of thrill you’re seeking, Baños has it. This budget-friendly city is an absolute must for the bucket list of any adrenaline junkie out there!
Psst. I also made this destination the must-visit for Gryffindors. If you’re a major Harry Potter fan like myself, check out my guide to where you should travel based on your Hogwarts House!
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Looks like there are a whole range of fun activities on offer. Ecuador is high up on our list.
Ecuador was so much fun and has so much to offer. I can’t wait to go back!