One of South America’s most interesting tours is a visit to the Amazon forest. And the forest isn’t limited only to Brazilian territory. In Ecuador, for instance, the small town of Baños de Agua Santa is a destination known for its diverse adventures amidst the tropical rain forest.
Situated in one of the country’s few mountainous regions, Baños is one of the oldest towns on the continent. It was founded officially by Spanish colonizing expeditions in 1553. However, native communities had already been living there for a very long time.
That fact offers a cultural aspect that pleases tourists interested in the historical roots of the places they visit. The architecture of the small town strongly reflects this aspect, being a visible mark of the Iberian heritage that all Latin American countries carry in their DNA.
The arrival in Baños is, in itself, an attraction. Access is by several buses that depart from neighboring villages. From the country’s capital, Quito, it’s a trip of a little over three hours, with dazzling views of Ecuadorian Amazonia. The price of the bus ticket is very low, about three US dollars.
For those interested in local ecological aspects, Baños has incredible attractions, such as the Tungurahua volcano. But don’t worry, the volcano’s activities are monitored by the Ecuadorian government, and any sign of a possible eruption is announced weeks beforehand.
With regard to tours, Baños is outstanding for contact with nature. The town’s thermal pools are perfect for relaxation. The water comes from the Tungurahua volcano, where it is naturally heated. The price of the tour is symbolic: two dollars a ticket.
There are also options for trails around the town that lead to dazzling places, such as the Mirador de la Virgen de Baños. The tour is lovely, gratis, and no guide is needed, since access is very simple.
Baños de Agua Santa is an excellent option for a complete and extremely low priced tour. It will please tourists that wish to know the history of the country, those that want to relax in a calm ambience, and those that love ecotourism.
