Wondering what to do in Banos, Ecuador? The town is hopping and the entire area is filled with adventure and fun activities. It also has a number of hot pools from natural Ecuador hot springs and steam baths and massage services for the perfect relaxing experience. I spent two months exploring Banos and fell in love with the area and the community. Here are a few suggestions on how to really get the best out of this amazing town. I think visiting the jungle, this town and doing a Galapagos Islands cruise vacation are a few of the best ways to see this amazing country.
Banos Hotels, Hostels and Camping
Banos is loaded with hotels and hostels. Take a walk around town and you will find all kinds of options. It’s also worth looking on AirBnB because there are some great rentals in the area. I stayed at Abby’s Hideaway because it has an excellent location. It’s a 2 dollar/5 minute taxi ride to the busy town and the property or a short walk. The property sits just above Pastaza Canyon with incredible riverfront views. It also offers camping, a beautiful hostel, and two rental houses for killer prices. You can pick fruit ad avocados and hike out the back door. Pretty hard to beat for me.
They also have hotels right at the hot pools and some elevated way above the town. It’s easy to find something high end or simple right in town however. I enjoyed being on the outskirts while still having easy access to everything in the town.
Where to Eat
I was surprised by the food here. After 8 months of eating relatively simple dishes in South America, I did some dining out and found a few great places with a more international take on things. If I had two choices, I’d go with sushi or a great burger. They also had an Argentine style asado place that was new. I didn’t have a chance to eat there but it looked amazing. Right next to the big grocery store in the center of town.
Zumo Food and Drink – This is the sushi restaurant and I ended up eating here 3 times. The have curry, thai noodles and various dishes that fall outside the realm of sushi. All were delicious and the presentation was great. The sushi itself was also high quality and very well done.
Hickory Burger – If you’re craving a burger, go here. It’s hard to find a great burger in South America and this one takes the cake. Between this place and Gringo Mike’s in Barichara, Colombia, I’ve had two solid burgers on par with some of my favorites in the states.
Things to Do in Banos, Ecuador
Waterfall Route – There are waterfalls everywhere. Start in town, head to Ulba and keep on down the road to see them all. You can rent a bike with pickup at the final location. The last waterfall involves a hike to reach the bottom of a massive chute of water. The hike is paved and not difficult. Well worth the trip.
Banos, Ecuador Hikes – Trails are located all around the town. Many are marked and others are informal. Hike up the volcano or jump on one of the many designated trails to check everything out. You’ll walk past farms and many of the trails are very steep.
Rafting, Zip-lines and Adventures – The Adventure Park located near the zoo is a good option. They run ziplines right into Pastaza Canyon. It also happens to be right up the road from Abby’s Hideaway as well. Rock climbers will find a great wall right against the face of the canyon as well. You’ll find swings and ziplines along the waterfall route as well. Head to GeoTours right downtown to schedule a rafting trip or canyoning tour. They have some exciting tours to keep you busy while staying in Banos.
Hot Pools and Steam Baths – This is the real highlight here. The hot pools located in town are great. show up early to avoid the crowds and alternate between the different temperatures. The steam baths are also fun. The Refuge is a great place to have a massage and steam bath. You sit in a box covering everything but your head and use a handle to control the steam heat. They alternate between steam and cold water treatments for about a half hour. It feels amazing.
