Baños, a picturesque town nestled in the heart of Ecuador, is famous for its stunning landscapes, enchanting waterfalls, and—what captivated us the most—its soothing hot springs. The name itself, Baños, translates to “baths,” a nod to the abundant thermal springs that have been a vital part of the town’s character for centuries.
During our time there, the natural beauty was truly something to behold. I remember feeling a sense of calm wash over me as we explored the waterfalls. The mist, the sound of the water crashing down—everything seemed to blend into a peaceful moment we both cherished. My wife was particularly drawn to the hot springs, where we spent one of our most relaxing evenings, soaking in the warm waters while gazing at the surrounding mountains.
Baños has a way of making you slow down and appreciate the simple pleasures, like taking a dip in the mineral-rich pools or just wandering through the town’s vibrant streets. It’s more than just a tourist spot—it felt like a place where time stands still, inviting you to just be.
Surrounded by majestic mountains, cascading waterfalls, and lush greenery, Baños’ hot springs offer an experience that’s nothing short of magical. We immediately felt the calming effect as soon as we stepped into those geothermal waters. It wasn’t just about soaking—there was something deeply soothing about the whole atmosphere. I remember thinking how the serenity of the place made it easy to forget the outside world.
These geothermal pools have long been revered for their healing properties, a tradition that dates back to the indigenous communities. While we were there, we could see why people return time and again—to not just relax, but to recharge both body and soul. For me, it wasn’t just about the physical relief; being in those natural surroundings felt like a form of spiritual renewal.
The town itself offers a wide variety of hot springs, each with its own distinct character. We ventured to a more rustic, open-air pool tucked away in nature, where we were able to fully disconnect and just enjoy the stillness. On another day, we indulged in a modern spa resort that pampered us with luxurious amenities. My wife loved the contrast—one day it was raw and untouched, the next it was all about comfort and indulgence. Baños really has something for everyone, no matter what kind of experience you’re seeking.
In this article, I will share our relaxing getaway in a few hot springs in Baños. You can also check my article on the best things to do in Baños, Ecuador.
Healing Waters
There’s a local belief that the waters of Baños possess remarkable healing powers, and having spent time in those warm pools myself, it’s easy to see why. Some attribute the magic to the rich minerals drawn from volcanic springs, while others believe it’s a divine blessing from the Virgin Mary. Whether it’s the science or the spirituality behind it, you can’t deny how rejuvenating the experience feels.
The heat of the thermal pools comes from none other than Tungurahua Volcano, famously known as the “Throat of Fire.” The volcano’s underground magma tunnels stretch beneath the city, warming the waters and creating a unique natural wonder. We learned about this fascinating phenomenon while chatting with a local guide. It made our time in the springs feel even more special, knowing the warmth beneath us came from the earth’s core.
For centuries, people have turned to hot springs to ease their aches and pains. The mineral-rich waters of Baños provide more than just relaxation—they seem to lift the weight off your body. I remember slipping into the pool after a day of hiking, and it was like floating. My wife, who occasionally deals with joint pain, found that the buoyancy helped her move more freely without any discomfort.
It’s no surprise that these springs attract those recovering from injuries or dealing with arthritis. After our soak, not only did we feel more at ease, but that night, we both slept deeply, free from any tension. The healing power of those waters goes beyond the physical—it’s a total reset for your mind and body.
Hot Spring Options in Baños
There are several choices available in Baños for enjoying thermal baths. We have highlighted a few of the fantastic options below.
Luna Volcan Adventure Spa
Luna Volcan was easily the highlight of our hot springs experience in Baños. We had heard about its reputation as the most luxurious thermal baths in the area, and it truly lived up to the hype. It’s not just a spa, but an adventure spa, and we decided to treat ourselves to the full five-star experience.
There are four pools and a jacuzzi, all filled with warm volcanic water, and the setting couldn’t be more perfect. Perched high up on the mountain, Luna Volcan offers unmatched views of Tungurahua volcano and the city below. I still remember how surreal it felt to be relaxing in the warm waters while gazing at the massive volcano in the distance. My wife kept commenting on how beautiful the mountains looked, painted in so many shades of green, with clouds floating by like cotton balls at eye level.
The facilities were top-notch. From the beautiful dressing rooms to the showers, towels, and lockers, everything was taken care of. It felt like stepping into a little slice of luxury in the middle of nature.
What made the experience truly special for us, though, were the panoramic views. From where we were soaking, we had a full view of the national park and the town of Baños below. The sight of the mountains was mesmerizing, especially as the sun began to set. We arrived around 5 p.m., which was the perfect time. We enjoyed an hour of daylight, with the vibrant green landscape stretching out before us, and then, as evening fell, the city lights below started twinkling, adding another layer of magic to the moment.
As the sun dipped lower on the horizon, we were treated to one of the most captivating sunsets I’ve ever witnessed. From the warmth of the pool, we watched the mountains gradually shift from vibrant shades of green to a tranquil darkness. It felt as if the landscape was winding down for the night, just as we were. The fact that it was the off-season made it even better—we had our own private bath, which really enhanced the sense of exclusivity and calm.
As evening fell, we could see the city below gradually light up. The twinkling lights created a beautiful contrast against the darkening mountains, almost as if the town was coming to life just as the day was ending. My wife and I found ourselves quietly taking it all in, savoring the moment. The experience at Luna Volcan was absolutely priceless, and every penny spent felt completely justified.
It’s hard to put into words just how awe-inspiring those views were. The combination of natural beauty and peaceful solitude is something that has to be experienced firsthand. No photo or description could ever truly capture the magic of soaking in those volcanic waters while the world quietly transformed around us.
Balneario El Salado
El Salado thermal springs is a fantastic option if you’re looking for an affordable yet unforgettable hot spring experience in Baños. With an entrance fee of just $3 per person and the option to rent a swim cap for $1, it’s a no-brainer for anyone wanting to relax without breaking the bank.
We spent a whole day exploring the different pools, each one offering something unique. I found myself easily absorbed, moving from one pool to the next, savoring the variety. One pool, in particular, stood out due to its intense heat—it was so hot that staying submerged for more than ten minutes was a challenge. It was like being in a natural sauna, and though it was hard to stay in long, it felt amazing afterward.
On the opposite end, there’s a freezing cold pool that reminded me of an ice bath, a sharp contrast that left me feeling surprisingly refreshed. The mix of temperatures was invigorating—jumping between hot, cold, and pleasantly warm pools gave my body a rush that’s hard to describe. We also noticed that the pools with milder temperatures were perfect for kids, and it was fun seeing families enjoy the experience together.
What made it even more special was the chance to meet some locals. The friendly conversations added an extra layer to our day, making it feel more connected to the community. It wasn’t just about the pools—it was about soaking up the atmosphere, the people, and the simplicity of a really pleasant day.
Termas de la Virgen
Termas de la Virgen is another hot spring complex in Baños de Agua Santa, and while it has its own unique charm, it wasn’t quite our top pick. Situated right beneath the stunning Virgin’s Hair waterfall, it certainly lives up to its name. The waterfall creates a dramatic backdrop, and there’s even a beautiful church nearby, which adds to the area’s appeal.
The pools at Termas de la Virgen offer a range of temperatures, from refreshing cold water to one that reaches an impressive 118°F (42°C). It’s centrally located, making it easy to get to, and the view of the waterfall while soaking in the pools is definitely a highlight. But despite these perks, my wife and I found it lacked the tranquility we were hoping for.
Much like our experience at El Salado, Termas de la Virgen is an affordable option, and it does provide a good opportunity to mingle with both locals and tourists. However, the downside is that it tends to get crowded, especially on weekends, which takes away from the relaxation. It also felt a bit run-down, not quite as well-maintained as we had hoped. In the end, while it’s worth a visit, it didn’t quite measure up to the more peaceful springs we had experienced elsewhere in town.
Piscinas Sta. Ana
What makes Santa Ana Pools stand out is the tranquility—they’re far less crowded than the other hot springs in Baños. If you’re visiting over a weekend and looking for a peaceful soak, this is the place to be. Open only from Friday to Sunday until 5 pm, Santa Ana Pools are just a 15-minute bus or taxi ride away, and trust me, the journey is absolutely worth it. We quickly realized why they’re considered the best hot springs in town.
Nestled in a beautiful garden setting, the pools offer a chance to truly connect with nature. I loved the feeling of being surrounded by lush greenery, with birds chirping nearby and the gentle breeze sweeping through. It was a perfect blend of natural beauty and the therapeutic warmth of volcanic waters.
One large hot pool is the centerpiece, but what we really enjoyed were the smaller, more private pools that felt almost like our own personal jacuzzis. My wife and I found ourselves lounging in one of these smaller pools for hours, just talking and soaking up the peaceful atmosphere. It was exactly the kind of escape we were looking for, away from the crowds, where we could truly relax and unwind.
What To Bring At The Hot Springs
Here is a list of items you must remember to pack before going to the hot springs.
Water to stay hydrated
Bathing suit
Towel
Snacks if you plan on staying for a few hours or more
Sandals for the showers
Cash for entrance fee and swim cap rental
Extra money for purchasing water or snacks on-site
Baños, Ecuador, is a paradise for anyone who loves hot springs. The mineral-rich waters found here don’t just soothe your muscles—they bring a sense of calm that’s hard to put into words. Whether you’re seeking physical relief or just a peaceful moment to yourself, soaking in these warm pools surrounded by the stunning scenery is an experience that nourishes both body and soul.
Picture yourself relaxing in the warm waters, the gentle sound of waterfalls in the background, and mountains towering around you. It’s a moment of pure serenity that stays with you long after you leave.
If you ever find yourself in Baños, don’t miss the chance to visit these hot springs. They’re the perfect way to unwind and recharge. The hot springs are waiting, ready to offer you an unforgettable experience that will leave you with not just memories, but a deep sense of relaxation and well-being.
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