Hot springs, a simmering volcano named Volcan Tungurahua and lush greenery makes Banos in Ecuador a popular tourist destination. Banos is an abbreviation for Banos de Agua Santa which means "baths of holy waters", a clear reference to the hot springs associated with the town. These hot springs are always packed with people enjoying the mineral waters even though the water is brown in color because it runs off the nearby volcano.Hiking, biking and touring the ominous volcano are some of the plentiful activities available in Banos. Visitors should check on the status of the volcano before visiting Banos as it has erupted several times in the last few years. Check volcano.si.edu for information.
This small but elegant hotel was built in 1580 and is one of the oldest in Ecuador. The Hacienda Manteles has an advantageous location and close to most of the activities available in Banos. Visitors don't have to travel far to view the rainforest as the hotel owns 250 acres of rainforest with part of the hotel's profits going to preserve this vital resource. Tourists can take day trips to La Cuchilla, an observatory from where five volcanoes can be viewed. The hotel also features an "agriculture day" where guests can participate in planting and caring for local crops. The Hacienda Manteles is a high-end hotel but breakfast is included as well a welcome cocktail and coffee.
Hacienda Manteles
Av. 6 de Diciembre # 1100 y Gaspar de Villaroel Conjunto Parque Real.
Torre Cipres # 6. Piso 8. Suite 87
Banos, Ecuador
593-2-223-3484 / 871-5632 094614275 / 094614525
haciendamanteles.com
If you love art this is the place for you! La Posada del Arte showcases the Ecuadorian paintings of artists such as Soriano, Rueda and Sanchez and all works are for sale. This mid-range hostel includes an American-style breakfast and all taxes in its price structure. Relax on the rooftop terrace where you can enjoy the view of a beautiful waterfall and stunning scenery. When hungry, mosey over to the restaraunt for traditional Ecuadorian food.
La Posada del Arte
Calle Velasco Ibarro y Av. Montalvo
Banos, Ecuador
593-3-274-0083
posadadelarte.com
This budget hotel features spectacular views of Tungurahua Volcano, Llanganates National Park and the town of Banos below. Swim in one of the four outdoor pools or relax in a Jacuzzi of hot volcanic water while enjoying the beautiful vistas that surround this Swiss-owned and managed hotel.
Visitors have no time to be bored at Luna Runtun with the wealth of activies that are offered: hiking, rafting, canyoning as well as tours through the rainforest. If spa treatments are what you enjoy try the volcanic ash and salt exfoliation or the rose bath.
Luna Runtun
Caserío Runtun Km. 6
P.O. Box 18-02-1944
Banos, Ecuador
593-3-2740882
lunaruntun.com
