The Best Hiking and Trekking Routes in Baños

The Best Hiking and Trekking Routes in Banos

Baños de Agua Santa, with its exuberant nature and mountainous landscapes, offers a wide variety of hiking and trekking trails for all levels, from gentle walks to challenging traverses.

Popular and Accessible Routes

1. Willows Trail

Difficulty: Medium.
Distance: 7 km.
Elevation gain: 811 m.
Estimated Time: 1h30.
Description: Ideal for families and people with normal physical condition. It starts in the San Vicente sector and goes through Illuchi, Sauce until it reaches the San Francisco bridge, offering beautiful views of the landscape and the Tungurahua volcano on clear days.

2. Pailon del Diablo

Difficulty: Medium.
Distance: 1.6 km.
Elevation gain: 118 m.
Estimated Time: 45 minutes (round trip).
Description: Although it is not a trekking, the visit to Pailón del Diablo is a must. It starts in the Rio Verde sector. Accessible through well-maintained trails and stairs, it has platforms that offer spectacular views of the waterfall. Payment is required to enter.

3. Cascada del Silencio Waterfall

Difficulty: Moderate.
Distance: 2.7 km.
Elevation gain: 142 m.
Estimated Time: 1 hour (round trip).
Description: A trail surrounded by vegetation that takes you to the beautiful Cascada del Silencio waterfall. The trail begins in Ulba, ideal for enjoying nature and the sound of the water.

4. Green River - San Pedro

Difficulty: Medium.
Distance: 5 km.
Elevation gain: 328 m.
Estimated Time: 2 hours (round trip).
Description: Excellent for hiking, with little chance of encountering other hikers.

5. Monument to the Virgin

Difficulty: Medium.
Distance: 1.3 km.
Elevation gain: 161 m.
Estimated Time: 45 minutes (round trip).
Description: A popular route for hikers, starting from the San José neighborhood and going up approximately 500 steps, where it is likely to meet other people.

6. Smugglers' Trail

Difficulty: Difficult.
Distance: 14 km.
Elevation Gain: 857 m.
Estimated Time: 5h30 (round trip).
Description: Ideal for experienced hikers, this route offers a considerable challenge from the Agoyan hydroelectric bridge to the Agoyan waterfall.

7. Piedra de la Luz Trail

Difficulty: Medium.
Distance: 4 km.
Elevation Gain: 165 m.
Estimated Time: 1h30 (round trip).
Description: The trail is good, it starts past the Ulba bridge taking a detour to the left called the entrance to Rio verde Chico. Be careful with the unmarked sections. This place is ideal for camping.

8. Trail to the Cara de Perro

Difficulty: Medium.
Distance: 10.1 km.
Elevation gain: 900 m.
Estimated Time: 4 hours (round trip).
Description: A popular natural tourist attraction due to its peculiar shape and the beauty of the surrounding landscape. We must go to lligñay - via Vizcaya until we find the entrance.

9. Bellavista (Cross)

Difficulty: Low.
Distance: 1.2 km.
Estimated Time: 1h20 (round trip).
Description: A route accessible to all people, starting at the Pedro Vicente Maldonado school.

10. Trail to Café del Cielo

Difficulty: Low.
Distance: 1.8 km.
Estimated Time: 1h40 (round trip).
Description: Starts at the Pedro Vicente Maldonado school, on the road to Bellavista, a few meters before arriving there is a detour to the right that is signposted to the Café del Cielo coffee shop.

11. Viewpoint Circuit

Difficulty: Medium.
Distance: 6.35 km.
Elevation gain: 539 m.
Estimated Time: 2h30 (round trip).
Description: It starts in the San Jose neighborhood and takes you through beautiful viewpoints, including the Monument to the Virgin continuing the trail along the back of the monument at the first intersection to the left and then at the next intersection to the right to the Café del Cielo. To conclude we will descend along the marked path passing by the Bellavista viewpoint.

12. Inés María - La Cuchilla Route

Difficulty: Medium.
Distance: 10 km.
Elevation gain: 668 m.
Estimated Time: 4 hours (round trip).
Description: Starting at the terminal, we will cross the San Francisco bridge until we reach a wooden sign indicating the trail and camp site to the left. We will cross a pine forest with impressive views of the city and the volcano until we reach the antennas sector. Continuing with the route until a small signpost to descend to Lligua in the sector San Martin.

13. Pondoa to the fire throat refuge

Difficulty: Moderate.
Distance: 4 km.
Positive difference in altitude: 1.153 m.
Estimated Time: 5 hours (round trip).
Description: The hike starts from Inefan, the route is signposted until you reach the refuge, we can enjoy the scenery and nature, the route is traveled by people who are going on excursions to the Tungurahua volcano.

Other Options and Considerations

Casa del Arbol: Known for its cliff-side swing, it also offers short trails with panoramic views.
Viewpoints: Baños has several viewpoints accessible by car or short hikes, such as Mirador Bellavista and Mirador Ojos del Volcán.
Guided Tours: Consider hiring guided tours for a more complete and safe experience, with information on local flora and fauna.
Difficulty Level: Evaluate your level of fitness when choosing a route; there are options for everyone.
Proper Equipment: Bring comfortable shoes, appropriate clothing for the weather, sunscreen, insect repellent, water and snacks.
Safety: Inform someone of your route and estimated time of return. If you do long routes, consider going with a guide.
Weather: Check the weather forecast before leaving, as it can be variable.

Recommendations

1. Plan your route: Research and choose according to your level of experience.
2. Physical Condition: Make sure you are in good shape and warm up.
3. Equipment: Wear light, breathable clothing and carry a raincoat.
4. Hydration and Nutrition: Stay hydrated and bring energy snacks.
5. Respect for the Environment: Follow the trails and respect the flora and fauna.
6. Post-Trekking Stretching: Stretch to avoid injuries and rest properly.

Contact us for more information using this link!

Discover the best hiking and trekking trails in Baños de Agua Santa, a natural paradise in Ecuador. Explore stunning landscapes, majestic waterfalls, and adventure-filled paths. Perfect for nature enthusiasts and active tourism seekers. Experience unforgettable moments surrounded by breathtaking beauty!
by Explorsierra Tourism Agency Ecuador