Baños Hiking | Casa del Árbol, Cascadas y Paisajes Andinos

Experience a unique hiking adventure in Baños de Agua Santa, one of Ecuador’s most visited destinations thanks to its combination of nature, culture, and volcanic landscapes. 

This route connects the famous Casa del Árbol with mountain viewpoints, the rural village of Runtún, and the historic downtown area, finishing at the Cascada de la Virgen. 

Baños is located within the area of influence of Sangay National Park and directly across from Llanganates National Park, making this one of the best hiking experiences in Baños, Ecuador. 

The ascent to Casa del Árbol is done by tourist transportation. From there, the hike begins mostly downhill toward the city. 

NOTE: 
The itinerary may be adjusted depending on weather conditions and group pace. 

GENERAL TOUR INFORMATION 

Approximate total distance: 8 – 10 km | 5 – 6.2 miles 
Tour type: Hiking, nature, local culture, photography 
Modality: Private tour or small group 
Departure from: Baños de Agua Santa 
Difficulty level: Moderate – easy 
Recommended age: 10 to 65 years 

Terrain: Rural roads, mountain trails, and urban areas 
Climate: Variable Andean subtropical 
Average altitude: 1,820 – 2,600 m | 5,971 – 8,530 ft 

ITINERARY 

Casa del Árbol 

Distance: Starting point (transport from Baños) 

Departure 8:00 am from your hotel or location. 

Located at 2,600 m / 8,530 ft, it is the most iconic viewpoint in Baños. 

Activities - Experience: 

Direct view of Tungurahua Volcano (weather permitting) 
Panoramic photography 
Explanation of the valley and volcanic activity 
Geographic introduction between Sangay and Llanganates 
From here, the descent toward the next attraction begins. 

Pasarela Diamante 

Distance: Casa del Árbol → Pasarela Diamante 
1.5 km | 0.9 miles 

Tourist attraction with elevated panoramic views of the city. 

Activities - Experience: 

Full view of the Andean valley 
Panoramic photography 
Optional entrance depending on client decision 

Runtún – Mountain Village 

Distance: Virgen de la Montaña → Runtún 
2.5 km | 1.5 miles 

Small rural community surrounded by crops and natural viewpoints. 

Activities -- Experience: 

Observation of agricultural landscapes 
Walk through rural paths 
Interpretation of local lifestyle and tourism development 

Monument Virgen de la Montaña 

Distance: Pasarela Diamante → Virgen de la Montaña 
1 km | 0.6 miles 

Located on the upper part of the mountain with a direct view of the city. 

Activities - Experience: 

Cultural and religious explanation 
Panoramic view of downtown Baños 
Interpretation of local traditions 

Baños Local Market 

Distance: Central Virgin Monument → Market 
0.5 km | 0.3 miles 

Local gastronomic center. 

Activities - Experience: 

Tasting of traditional snacks 
Traditional energy-replenishing juice 
Authentic cultural experience 

Baños Church 

Distance: Market → Church 
0.3 km | 0.2 miles 

Main religious temple of the city. 

Activities - Experience: 

Architectural history 
Religious tradition 
Cultural context of Baños 

Cascada de la Virgen 

Distance: Church → Cascada de la Virgen 
0.7 km | 0.4 miles 

Natural waterfall located near the urban center. 

Activities - Experience: 

Direct contact with the waterfall 
Possibility of getting wet 
Final photographs 
Optional: entrance to thermal baths bring a towel, swimming suit and swim cap (additional cost 4$) 

Time to finish the tour 1 or 2 pm