Banos and surroundings

Baños is the gateway to the Eastern Tropical Rain Forest and the High Andes. The climate is perfect for the growth of many fruit trees and sugar cane. From Baños it is possible to do a number of excursions, one of the most spectacular being the hike up to the refuge or the summit of Tungurahua, within the limits of Sangay National Park. The trail up to the refuge starts at the Parks office.

The dense vegetation has created natural tunnels and it is possible to see many species of orchids, native plants and birds. The views as one reaches the highest points are beautiful. From Baños it is possible to drive down to El Puyo and along the way stop at el Pailon del Diablo or the Devil''''s Caldron. There are trails in the area which are fantastic for birdwatching.

Day 1
An early-morning start heading south along the Volcano Avenue brings us to Cotopaxi National Park. Here you will be able to see a unique landscape with flora and fauna that have adapted to life in the lava fields, evidence of the volcano’s last eruption. After a short walk in the Park we will drive to the Hostería Rumipamba de las Rosas for lunch. The day continues south along the Volcano Avenue to reach Baños de Agua Santa. This was an early settlement of the ethnic Puruha culture situated on the northern slopes of one of the most active volcanoes in Ecuador, Mama Tungurahua. We have dinner and spend the night at the luxury Luna Runtun Adventure Spa, high on the slopes above the town, giving us impressive views of the valley and surrounding countryside.

Day 2
The day begins with a visit to some of the many dramatic waterfalls of this area: Pailón del Diablo (Devil’s Cauldron) and Manto de la Novia (Bride’s Veil) among others. To get to one of the waterfalls we have to cross the Pastaza canyon by cable car, a popular and exiting way of getting close-up views of the falls. Lunch is at the charming Posada del Arte, and the afternoon is free for you to enjoy the several activities offered in Baños. The night’s accommodation is at Luna Runtun.

Day 3
Early in the morning we head north to either Saquisili indigenous market and the village of La Victoria (the market only operates on Thursdays and Sundays) or Quilotoa Lake all located in the same area. Both destinations offer a rich cultural experience where we can see how the indigenous people have preserved their culture and traditions. If the day’s option is to Quilotoa Lake we will take a box lunch to have at the rim of the crater, or for Saquisili and La Victoria a late lunch is provided at La Manuela, specializing in Ecuadorian cuisine. After lunch return to Quito.