BANOS & THE AVENUE OF VOLCANOES

Banos & the Avenue of Volcanoes offers activities galore for thrill seekers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Beautifully situated in a deep valley, surrounded by verdant cloud forest and overlooked by a towering volcano, Banos holds great appeal to visitors. The town is small, quaint and busy with colonial style squares and plenty of shops and restaurants. Any visitor should take time to watch the locals of the town use a very unique ‘throwing’ method to make a sweet treat known as ‘melcocha’, which is similar to toffee, and there’s an abundance of street traders selling delicious deep fried empanadas. Despite these culinary delights, the best of Banos is further afield, with multiple activities available from ziplining and canyoning, to horse trekking and incredible bird watching. Just outside the town, many spas and thermal springs which give the town its name are perfect for relaxing in after a busy day.  To the north of Banos and at 5900m elevation, and within easy reach of Quito, the Cotopaxi Volcano is widely known in trekking and climbing circles. A highly active strato-volcano, it is one of many situated in this narrow corridor that forms the Avenue of Volcanoes. Aside from attempting to summit these impressive peaks and craters, visitors can enjoy warm hospitality from the friendly Andean people who live in this fragile environment. Cotopaxi National Park offers world class birdwatching opportunities, including the chance to spot the magnificent Andean cock-of-the-rock and the ample hot springs provide welcome relief to aching muscles.

WHERE TO STAY

Our favourite luxury hotels

Abraspungo Banos Ecuador

Hacienda Abraspungo

This traditional colonial style hacienda is perched high in the Andes at 2,754 metres above sea level, and is surrounded by magnificent mountain scenery. The charm and tranquillity of this unique destination are accentuated by the exceptional service that guests receive whilst staying here. The walls tell stories through the many historic photos of the surrounding landscapes, and the antique furniture give a distinctly cultural feel. Hacienda Abraspungo also has a wonderful restaurant which offers cuisine from a menu created by a team of national and international chefs.

Luna Runtun Banos Ecuador

Luna Volcan

The Luna Volcan boasts incredible views over the town of Banos from its high mountainside location. Guests will not be disappointed with the impressive views and the surrounding 310 acres of private unspoilt forest. A selection of different pools are on offer, including hot volcanic water Jacuzzis, alongside a spa service with over 20 different treatments. For adventurous travellers, Banos is a hot spot for outdoor activities. The Luna Volcan offers guests a wide range of options. For gentle adventures take a hike along ancient Inca pathways or along the slopes of a volcano, spot some of the vibrant and unique birdlife or visit the local handicraft markets. For those seeking thrills, the hotel can also arrange canyoning, white water rafting and ziplining.