{"id":70010,"date":"2025-08-14T15:17:12","date_gmt":"2025-08-14T17:17:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/?p=70010"},"modified":"2025-08-14T15:17:15","modified_gmt":"2025-08-14T17:17:15","slug":"hot-springs-ecuador","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/hot-springs-ecuador\/","title":{"rendered":"5 Best Hot Springs in Ecuador for Nature and Wellness"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Soaking in the aguas termales in Ecuador is more than just a way to relax\u2014it\u2019s part of the culture. And after visiting thermal baths across the country, I can confidently say they know what they&#8217;re doing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many of the best hot springs in Ecuador combine natural surroundings with spa-style experiences that leave you feeling grounded and recharged.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But with options tucked into different corners of the Andes, it\u2019s not always obvious which are worth your time, especially on a tight itinerary. That\u2019s where this guide comes in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this post, I\u2019ll walk you through five of the best Ecuador hot springs based on my personal visits. From luxurious spa circuits to a thermal pool hidden in the mountains, each one offers something unique.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You\u2019ll also find links to my in-depth reviews for each destination so you can dive deeper into the experience that calls to you most.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"771\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/piedra-de-agua-hot-springs-cuenca-771x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Outdoor pools at Piedra de Agua in Ba\u00f1os de Cuenca, set against a rocky hillside with lush greenery and dramatic clouds in the background.\" class=\"wp-image-69969\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/piedra-de-agua-hot-springs-cuenca-771x1024.jpg 771w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/piedra-de-agua-hot-springs-cuenca-376x500.jpg 376w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/piedra-de-agua-hot-springs-cuenca-188x250.jpg 188w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/piedra-de-agua-hot-springs-cuenca-768x1020.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/piedra-de-agua-hot-springs-cuenca-1156x1536.jpg 1156w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/piedra-de-agua-hot-springs-cuenca.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 771px) 100vw, 771px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_702bf0-06, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_702bf0-06[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_702bf0-06\"]{font-size:16px;line-height:21px;font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_702bf0-06 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_702bf0-06[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_702bf0-06\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_702bf0-06, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_702bf0-06[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_702bf0-06\"]{font-size:14px;line-height:19px;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_702bf0-06, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_702bf0-06[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_702bf0-06\"]{font-size:11px;line-height:15px;}}<\/style>\n<p class=\"kt-adv-heading_702bf0-06 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading has-theme-palette-5-color has-text-color has-theme-palette-7-background-color has-background\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_702bf0-06\"><em>This article may contain affiliate links. This means if you click a link on my website and make a purchase, <em>I earn a commission at no additional cost to you<\/em>. For full information, please see my <\/em><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/affiliate-disclosure\/\" target=\"_blank\"><em>disclaimer<\/em><\/a><em>&nbsp;here<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kb-table-of-content-nav.kb-table-of-content-id70010_9b6f65-e0 .kb-table-of-content-wrap{padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-right:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-left:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);}.kb-table-of-content-nav.kb-table-of-content-id70010_9b6f65-e0 .kb-table-of-contents-title-wrap{padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.kb-table-of-content-nav.kb-table-of-content-id70010_9b6f65-e0 .kb-table-of-contents-title{font-weight:regular;font-style:normal;}.kb-table-of-content-nav.kb-table-of-content-id70010_9b6f65-e0 .kb-table-of-content-wrap .kb-table-of-content-list{font-weight:regular;font-style:normal;margin-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;margin-left:0px;}<\/style>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Termas Papallacta<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Of all the aguas termales in Ecuador, this is the one I\u2019m still dreaming about. Surrounded by p\u00e1ramo landscape and misty mountains, Papallacta is just two hour drive from the capital of Quito but it feels like a retreat in nature.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"770\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/hot-springs-papallacta-quito-1024x770.jpg\" alt=\"A close up view of three piped water jets coming out of a rock wall at the Papallacta Hot Springs near Quito. The wall is lined with plants and lush green mountains are in the background.\" class=\"wp-image-69941\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/hot-springs-papallacta-quito-1024x770.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/hot-springs-papallacta-quito-665x500.jpg 665w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/hot-springs-papallacta-quito-250x188.jpg 250w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/hot-springs-papallacta-quito-768x577.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/hot-springs-papallacta-quito.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>There are two sections depending on your budget and the kind of experience you&#8217;re after. One has larger pools and a livelier, family-friendly vibe. The other is quieter, with fewer people and a more tranquil atmosphere. Both have mountain views and lush tropical gardens that make it easy to settle in and stay a while.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/papallacta-hot-springs-quito\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"69768\">Visiting Papallacta from Quito<\/a> is an easy day trip. Better yet, <a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Papallacta Hotel\" href=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/recommends\/papallacta-hotel\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\">book a night in one of the caba\u00f1as<\/a> for 24 hour access to the hot springs &#8211; my idea of heaven!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Ba\u00f1os Ecuador Hot Springs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Tucked between waterfalls and volcanoes, Ba\u00f1os Ecuador has a long tradition of soaking in the thermal waters that flows from the nearby Tungurahua volcano.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These aguas termales have a more low-key, local feeling than the others on this list. And I think that\u2019s why they remain some of the most popular hot springs in Ecuador.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"770\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/termas-virgen-hot-springs-banos-ecuador-770x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Visitors soak in warm yellowish thermal pools at Termas de la Virgen, located at the base of a tall waterfall cascading down a steep cliffside in Ba\u00f1os Ecuador.\" class=\"wp-image-70003\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/termas-virgen-hot-springs-banos-ecuador-770x1024.jpg 770w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/termas-virgen-hot-springs-banos-ecuador-376x500.jpg 376w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/termas-virgen-hot-springs-banos-ecuador-188x250.jpg 188w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/termas-virgen-hot-springs-banos-ecuador-768x1021.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/termas-virgen-hot-springs-banos-ecuador-1155x1536.jpg 1155w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/termas-virgen-hot-springs-banos-ecuador.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>I visited all three of the main thermal baths during my stay and found that each one has its moment\u2014whether it\u2019s a quiet soak before sunrise or joining locals for a nighttime dip beneath Cascada de la Virgen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re curious which one to visit and about the local post-soak tradition, I break it all down in <a href=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/things-to-do-in-banos-ecuador\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"69848\">my full guide to Ba\u00f1os Ecuador<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ba\u00f1os de Cuenca<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Located just 20 minutes outside the city, Ba\u00f1os de Cuenca is known for its mineral-rich aguas termales. While most travelers only visit one of the hot springs, I spent three days exploring the best options and found that each offers something different.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Below are my top picks, but if you want the full breakdown (including how to get there and which packages are worth it), <a href=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/banos-de-cuenca-hot-springs\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"69958\">check out my complete guide to the hot springs of Ba\u00f1os de Cuenca<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Piedra de Agua<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Piedra de Agua is one of the most striking hot springs in Ecuador I\u2019ve visited. Its use of red volcanic rock creates a deeply restorative atmosphere. Between the cave-like plunge pools lit by candlelight and underground thermal baths, it feels like a spa carved straight from the earth.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"771\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/piedra-de-agua-hot-springs-cuenca-ecuador-771x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Curved mineral pool at Piedra de Agua hot springs in Cuenca Ecuador, nestled among stone landscaping with views of the spa buildings and Andean hills.\" class=\"wp-image-69970\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/piedra-de-agua-hot-springs-cuenca-ecuador-771x1024.jpg 771w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/piedra-de-agua-hot-springs-cuenca-ecuador-376x500.jpg 376w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/piedra-de-agua-hot-springs-cuenca-ecuador-188x250.jpg 188w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/piedra-de-agua-hot-springs-cuenca-ecuador-768x1020.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/piedra-de-agua-hot-springs-cuenca-ecuador-1156x1536.jpg 1156w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/piedra-de-agua-hot-springs-cuenca-ecuador.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 771px) 100vw, 771px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>My friends and I chose the Spa Circuit, a guided experience that includes mud baths and hot-cold therapy. Each group moves through the circuit privately, which adds to the calm, focused vibe. At the end, you\u2019re free to relax in the larger thermal pools.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>My favorite is the hottest one in the back with curved edges that create cozy, semi-private pockets. This is a hot spring worth lingering in, and if you visit during the week, they often offer 2-for-1 promotions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Novaqua Hot Springs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>As an adults-only hot spring, Novaqua offers a more wellness-focused alternative to the area\u2019s larger aguas termales. The main pool is a large open space, but the surrounding lounge chairs and grassy area make it easy to settle in for a relaxing soak.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"731\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/novaqua-hot-springs-banos-de-cuenca-ecuador-1024x731.jpg\" alt=\"Outdoor hot spring pool at Novaqua in Cuenca Ecuador, with guests lounging under yellow umbrellas and enjoying the mineral-rich waters beneath cloudy skies.\" class=\"wp-image-69965\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/novaqua-hot-springs-banos-de-cuenca-ecuador-1024x731.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/novaqua-hot-springs-banos-de-cuenca-ecuador-700x500.jpg 700w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/novaqua-hot-springs-banos-de-cuenca-ecuador-250x179.jpg 250w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/novaqua-hot-springs-banos-de-cuenca-ecuador-768x548.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/novaqua-hot-springs-banos-de-cuenca-ecuador.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Entry to this Ecuador hot spring depends on the package you choose. One step up from the basic option, the Thermal Relax package includes access to the dry sauna and a beautiful cave-like mud room. The Turkish bath and contrast pools are included with both packages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a bonus, the Thermal Relax visit ends with a simple snack: coffee and an empanada de viento, a sweet Ecuadorian snack. Just down the road, you\u2019ll also find a small stand selling fresh coconuts. I highly recommend stopping by to recharge before heading back to Cuenca.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Termas Pumamaqui<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Tucked alongside a river on the backside of Cajas National Park, Termas Pumamaqui feels like a secret escape into the Andes. Located an hour outside of Cuenca, the drive winds through mountain scenery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"759\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/pumamaqui-hot-springs-cuenca-1024x759.jpg\" alt=\"Scenic view of the thermal baths at Termas Pumamaqui in Cuenca Ecuador, with a stone-edged hot spring pool beside a rushing river and lush Andean mountains in the background.\" class=\"wp-image-69972\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/pumamaqui-hot-springs-cuenca-1024x759.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/pumamaqui-hot-springs-cuenca-675x500.jpg 675w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/pumamaqui-hot-springs-cuenca-250x185.jpg 250w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/pumamaqui-hot-springs-cuenca-768x569.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/pumamaqui-hot-springs-cuenca.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This small, rustic hot spring stands out for its privacy. When you reserve a time slot, the entire space is yours. It\u2019s ideal for couples or small groups looking to relax without crowds. There are two stone pools, one of which is slightly hotter with thermal bubbles rising from the bottom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Included with your visit is a slice of pizza and a cup of herbal tea, which you can enjoy while soaking or in a small cafe nearby. If you prefer thermal baths without the spa scene, Termas Pumamaqui is a unique, peaceful option worth the short detour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Benefits of the Aguas Termales in Ecuador<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Soaking in thermal baths in Ecuador isn\u2019t just for relaxation. It\u2019s a tradition rooted in wellness. These mineral-rich aguas termales are naturally heated by volcanic activity and contain elements like sulfur, magnesium, and calcium.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many locals turn to hot springs to ease joint pain, improve circulation, and reduce stress. The warmth helps relax muscles and calm the nervous system, while the minerals may support skin health and recovery. Whether you&#8217;re visiting after a long hike or just want to unwind, these Ecuador hot springs are a restorative experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Final Thoughts on the Hot Springs in Ecuador<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>After soaking in hot springs across the Andes, I can say Ecuador KNOWS how to do hot springs. From riverside thermal baths to volcanic spas, each of these aguas termales in Ecuador offers its own blend of healing and beauty. If you were unsure which to prioritize, I hope this guide brought clarity\u2014and a few places to dream about until your trip.<\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1755190757419\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Does Ecuador have hot springs?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes, Ecuador has many natural hot springs, especially in the Andes region where volcanic activity heats underground water. These aguas termales are found in destinations like Ba\u00f1os, Papallacta, and Cuenca, and often include spa-style facilities. Soaking in the hot springs in Ecuador is a popular way to relax while enjoying the natural surroundings.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Soaking in the aguas termales in Ecuador is more than just a way to relax\u2014it\u2019s part of the culture. And after visiting thermal baths across the country, I can confidently say they know what they&#8217;re doing. Many of the best hot springs in Ecuador combine natural surroundings with spa-style experiences that leave you feeling grounded&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":69969,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_coblocks_attr":"","_coblocks_dimensions":"","_coblocks_responsive_height":"","_coblocks_accordion_ie_support":"","_kad_blocks_custom_css":"","_kad_blocks_head_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_body_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_footer_custom_js":"","_kad_post_transparent":"","_kad_post_title":"","_kad_post_layout":"","_kad_post_sidebar_id":"","_kad_post_content_style":"","_kad_post_vertical_padding":"","_kad_post_feature":"hide","_kad_post_feature_position":"","_kad_post_header":false,"_kad_post_footer":false,"_kad_post_classname":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[220],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-70010","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-ecuador"],"taxonomy_info":{"category":[{"value":220,"label":"Ecuador"}]},"featured_image_src_large":["https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/piedra-de-agua-hot-springs-cuenca-771x1024.jpg",771,1024,true],"author_info":{"display_name":"Julien Casanova","author_link":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/author\/julienne617\/"},"comment_info":0,"category_info":[{"term_id":220,"name":"Ecuador","slug":"ecuador","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":220,"taxonomy":"category","description":"","parent":0,"count":23,"filter":"raw","cat_ID":220,"category_count":23,"category_description":"","cat_name":"Ecuador","category_nicename":"ecuador","category_parent":0}],"tag_info":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/70010","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=70010"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/70010\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":70012,"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/70010\/revisions\/70012"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/69969"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=70010"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=70010"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=70010"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}