• By Ambaturismo | Transfer, Tourist Transportation and Adventure Tourism

Definitive guide to get to Baños de Agua Santa from Quito, Guayaquil, Cuenca and Montanita

Baños de Agua Santa, simply known as Baños, is a popular tourist destination in Ecuador, famous for its hot springs, beautiful waterfalls, and exciting outdoor activities. Located on the eastern slope of the Ecuadorian Andes, Baños offers a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventurous travelers. If you are planning to visit this charming destination from Quito, Guayaquil, Cuenca, or Montañita, heres a complete guide to help you get there.

1. From Quito to Baños:

The capital of Ecuador, Quito, is a common starting point for those wishing to explore Baños. The most direct route from Quito to Baños is via the Pan-American Highway South, which offers beautiful mountain landscapes during the approximately 180-kilometer journey. Depending on traffic, the drive usually takes around 3 and a half hours. There are also several bus companies operating services from the Quito Bus Terminal to Baños, with flexible schedule options for travelers.

During the journey from Quito, youll enjoy panoramic views of the Ecuadorian Andes and, weather permitting, catch a glimpse of the majestic Cotopaxi volcano in the distance. As you approach Baños, youll feel the excitement build as you delve into this adventure-filled destination.

2. From Guayaquil to Baños:

If youre in Guayaquil, the most common option to reach Baños is by taking a bus from the Guayaquil Bus Terminal. Although the journey is longer than from Quito, taking approximately 7 to 8 hours, it offers the opportunity to enjoy Ecuadors diverse landscapes, from lowlands to mountains. There are also flights available from the José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport in Guayaquil to the Quito Airport, located about 3 hours from Baños. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to complete the journey.

3. From Cuenca to Baños:

For travelers in Cuenca, getting to Baños involves a longer but equally rewarding journey. From the Cuenca Bus Terminal, you can take a bus bound for Baños. The journey takes approximately 8 hours, as the distance between the two cities is around 400 kilometers. During the trip, youll appreciate the beauty of the Andean landscapes and make stops in picturesque towns along the way.

4. From Montañita to Baños:

From the vibrant beach town of Montañita, reaching Baños involves a longer but equally exciting journey. The most practical option is to take a bus from the Santa Elena Bus Terminal, which generally takes between 9 and 10 hours due to the distance of approximately 550 kilometers. Alternatively, you can take a bus to Guayaquil and then follow the instructions for getting from Guayaquil to Baños.

Tips for Your Trip to Baños:

1. Book in Advance: Its advisable to book your bus tickets or flights in advance, especially during the high season, to secure your spot and get the best rates.
2. Pack Appropriately: The weather in Baños can be variable, so make sure to pack appropriate clothing for rain and cold, especially if you plan to engage in outdoor activities.
3. Explore Nearby Attractions: In addition to the hot springs and waterfalls of Baños, there are many other nearby attractions worth exploring, such as the Amazon.
4. Check Transport Schedules: Check bus or flight schedules before your trip and plan your itinerary accordingly to make the most of your time in Baños.

Conclusion:

Getting to Baños de Agua Santa from Quito, Guayaquil, Cuenca, or Montañita is easy and well worth the journey. Whether you prefer the comfort of a bus ride or the convenience of a short flight, there are options available for all travelers. Get ready to enjoy the natural beauty and thrilling adventure that await you in this unique Ecuadorian destination. Happy travels!