Hiking in Baños

Baños has risen to fame as a center for adventure activities such as 4X4ing and mountain biking; this town also has a great deal to offer those wanting to explore on their own two legs. Baños is the starting point for a great variety of hikes of different lengths and difficulty levels, which are sure to satisfy everyone from the experienced hiker to the occasional stroller. Exploring some of Baños’ marked paths and tracks is a manageable and free way to experience the area’s stunning scenery.

Two popular, short hikes from Baños head up the lower slopes of Volcan Tungurahua to viewpoints overlooking the city. Both hikes take between 45 minutes to an hour and end at Bellavista (the illuminated cross overlooking the town) and the Virgen del Agua Santa, respectively. These hikes can be combined to create a three- to four-hour loop.

There are also many longer hikes, including the popular round-trip up to Runtun Village (five to six hours), that allows you to take full advantage of Baños’ beautiful surroundings.

Location:
Baños, Ecuador

Hiking Types:
Hike

Price Description: Free

Relative price: Budget

Travel Skills: None

By Tom Ravenscroft

Initially intending to just pass through Ecuador on his year-long sojourn across the world, Tom Raven Scroft decided to set up camp in Quito as an...

Created: 03 Mar 2009

Updated: 12 Mar 2009