Things to do in Baños

From roaring waterfalls to slow cafés and thermal nights—these are the experiences Baños is truly known for.

A YEAR ROUND DESTINATION

There’s a lot to do in Baños. For this reason, we’ve pulled together some suggestions.  

But, these aren’t just things to do—they’re ways to feel the town. Step into nature, meet real locals, or pause for the view. Some moments you plan. Others happen when you’re simply in the right place.

Baños Icons

Three places that go beyond the photos. These are the images travelers carry home—not just for how they look, but for how they feel. Baños distilled into water, fire, and the everyday rituals that hold it all together.

1. La Casa del Árbol (Swing at the End of the World)

The swing, the volcano, the silence. One of Ecuador’s most iconic views—if the clouds allow it.

2. Pailón del Diablo Waterfall

A waterfall you hear long before you see it. Force, mist, and movement carved into the canyon.

3. Termas de la Virgen

Volcanic heat below a sacred fall. Come at night, when the town slows and steam rises.

Outdoor Activities

This is Baños in motion: trails above the town, canyon roads beside rivers, and views that open with each step. Choose how far you want to go—by foot, bike, or taxi—and let the landscape shift around you.

1. The Waterfalls Route

A scenic road through cliffs and jungle, with viewpoints, tarabitas, and waterfalls you can hear before you see.

2. Hikes & Trails

Marked paths, mountain ridges, and silence between steps. The best views aren’t always the most famous.

3. Viewpoints & Volcano Views

Panoramas that frame Baños from above. Sometimes the view finds you. Sometimes you have to earn it.

Adventure Sports

Not everything here moves slowly. Some days are made for rivers, ropes, and controlled adrenaline. Baños is home to expert guides, world-class landscapes, and just enough thrill to feel alive—without ever feeling unsafe. Pick your challenge. The gear is ready.

1. White Water Rafting

Wild, muddy, and fast. Certified guides lead you through rapids where the Amazon begins to pull downhill.

2. Canyoning

Down waterfalls, through rock, into pools. A technical, tactile adventure—and one of Baños’ signature experiences.

3. Ziplining

Cross rivers and canyons in flight. A quick thrill, a big view, and gravity at your back.

More to do

Not every moment in Baños has to be wild or wet. Some of the most memorable hours happen in the town itself—in its rhythms, its rituals, and the quiet things you only notice when you slow down.

Culture

1. Discover Downtown

Sit by the park, watch the market, follow the scent of fresh bread. The town moves gently here.

Relax

2. Hot springs & Wellness

Volcanic water, riverside pools, deep-tissue massages. Baños knows how to help you pause—and feel good doing it.

Culture

3. Live Like a Local

Join a salsa class, watch a fútbol match, walk the market. Some of Baños isn’t on maps.

Featured Baños Stories

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Curated stories to inspire your journey—nothing invented, nothing staged. Just how things really work here in Baños.

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Itinerary

The Best 2-Day, 1-Night Plan for Baños

Make the most of a short stay with this smart route: waterfalls, thermal baths, viewpoints, local food—and space to breathe.

Culture

A Typical Day in the Life of a Local

The day starts with fresh bread and quiet streets. After work, a short hike or gym. Then friends, music, and a familiar bar to close it.

Weather

What to Do in Baños When It Rains

Don’t cancel your plans—adjust them. Waterfall power peaks, cafés glow, and hot springs become unforgettable. Here’s how locals make the rain work.

Plan the Rest of Your Stay

Find where to sleep, eat, move, and more. Curated lodging, food, transport, and local help—all in one place.