Full Day Papallacta
The first-class volcanic hot springs of Papallacta don't only offer a relaxing retreat, but are beneficial for many physical ailments as well, thanks to their practically odourless, though rich mineral deposits. These pools are located in ornamental gardens with exotic flowers that are often visited by hummingbirds. Bathing is even nicer after a nature hike in the cloudforest with its mysterious vegetation. Papallacta is located only 67km/40mi/90min drive from Quito by private transport.
It is time to relax! You can use the facilities (dressing rooms, lockers, showers, clothing baskets, pools) from the public bath complex in Papallacta. Best switch between warmer and the cold basins, or cool-down by fresh mountain air. There is also a small steam cabin. Special aspect from the public pools is that you can meet Ecuadorian bathing guests.
Easy, about 2km/1.3mi/1hr (roundtrip)
Papallacta is located in a high valley on the Amazonian side of the central Andes chain, crossing a 4,000m/13,000ft high mountain-pass in the paramo moorlands. On clear mornings you can see nearby snow-capped Antisana volcano (5,750m/18,870ft) with its spectacular frozen formations. Just behind the thermal bath complex there begins a short trail named Sendero de la Isla (=Island trail). It follows the mountain stream through upper montane cloud forest, short below the tree-line and the paramo. These bushes are full of epiphytes such as bromeliads and wild orchids. Don't forget to keep an eye on the sky, because an Andean condor from nearby Antisanilla Biological Reserve might soar over.
Included : entrance Fees, English speaking guide, private transportation
It is time to relax! You can use the facilities (dressing rooms, lockers, showers, clothing baskets, pools) from the public bath complex in Papallacta. Best switch between warmer and the cold basins, or cool-down by fresh mountain air. There is also a small steam cabin. Special aspect from the public pools is that you can meet Ecuadorian bathing guests.
Easy, about 2km/1.3mi/1hr (roundtrip)
Papallacta is located in a high valley on the Amazonian side of the central Andes chain, crossing a 4,000m/13,000ft high mountain-pass in the paramo moorlands. On clear mornings you can see nearby snow-capped Antisana volcano (5,750m/18,870ft) with its spectacular frozen formations. Just behind the thermal bath complex there begins a short trail named Sendero de la Isla (=Island trail). It follows the mountain stream through upper montane cloud forest, short below the tree-line and the paramo. These bushes are full of epiphytes such as bromeliads and wild orchids. Don't forget to keep an eye on the sky, because an Andean condor from nearby Antisanilla Biological Reserve might soar over.
Included : entrance Fees, English speaking guide, private transportation