Baños de Agua Santa is one of Ecuador's most exciting destinations, combining waterfalls, mountains, hot springs, adventure activities and beautiful Andean scenery.

Located where the Andes begin descending toward the Amazon region, Baños gives travelers the opportunity to experience adventure and relaxation during the same trip.

Ecuador's official tourism website highlights Baños for its volcanic hot springs, Pailón del Diablo waterfall, Casa del Árbol and activities such as rafting and zip-lining.

1. Explore the Waterfall Route

The Ruta de las Cascadas, or Waterfall Route, is one of the classic experiences in Baños.

Travelers can explore the route by bicycle, car or organized tour while enjoying waterfalls and lush mountain scenery.

2. Visit Pailón del Diablo

Pailón del Diablo is one of the best-known waterfalls near Baños and one of the area's signature natural attractions.

Walking trails take visitors through lush vegetation toward the powerful waterfall.

3. Visit Casa del Árbol

The famous Casa del Árbol is known for its swings and spectacular mountain scenery.

It is one of the iconic attractions promoted for visitors to Baños.

4. Relax in the Hot Springs

After a day of exploring, Baños' volcanic hot springs provide an entirely different experience.

The official Ecuador tourism guide even describes Baños as a destination where travelers can experience adrenaline during the day and hot springs at night.

5. Go Rafting

Rafting is one of the adventure activities associated with Baños, along with canyoning and zip-lining.

Always choose an established operator and an experience appropriate for your ability level.

6. Try Canyoning

Waterfalls and steep terrain make the Baños area ideal for canyoning.

For adventure travelers, descending waterfalls with specialized equipment can become one of the highlights of a trip to Ecuador.

7. Discover the Mountain Viewpoints

Baños is surrounded by dramatic mountains.

Visiting one of the viewpoints around the valley is an excellent way to appreciate the landscape and take photographs of the area.

8. Walk Around Downtown Baños

Spend some time exploring the town itself, visiting local shops, restaurants and cafés.

Don't leave without trying melcocha, a traditional sugarcane sweet associated with Baños.

9. Make Time for Wellness

Your visit doesn't need to be filled entirely with adventure.

A swimming pool, sauna, Turkish bath or jacuzzi can be exactly what you need after a full day exploring waterfalls.

At Etelvina Spa Hotel, guests can combine the natural attractions of Baños with a peaceful wellness experience.

10. Stay for More Than One Night

Trying to experience Baños in a single afternoon means missing much of what makes the destination special.

Two or three nights give you enough time to combine waterfalls, adventure, local food and relaxation.