QUITO-MISAHUALLI TRIP

First Stop: Papallacta Therms

The healing thermal springs near Papallacta

First the feet, then the legs to the knees, then the torso... Thus gradually, the visitors of the thermal springs of Papallacta submerge in pools that some have water at more than 50 degrees temperature. The reason for this ritual is that to the thermal water is attributed the power to alleviate illnesses such as arthritis, acne or bad circulation. Besides, one enjoys a relaxant bath while admiring the snow-covered summit of Antisana, one of the good motives to visit a spa. The visitors relax alternating the hot baths with fleeting immersions in the pool of cold mountain water. A walk in the Páramo, or bird watching can follow the hot baths.

How to get there
On the road from Quito to Baeza, just before arriving at the town of Papallacta, a small road toward the right leads to "Termas de Papallacta". Other places with thermal springs exist next to the road.

The Food
The typical plate of Papallacta is trout. It is prepared in all of the possible forms: stewed, fried, baked, or grilled. The prices vary from 3 to 8 dollars per plate.

The Lodging
Several cabins exist with a wide range of prices and types of service. The price per person for a night stay varies from 10 to 50 dollars. The use of pools is included.

Papallacta Area

1 - El Tambo area is known for horseback riding and the starting point for expeditions up the Antisana volcano.
2 - The Papallacta Lake.
3 - The village of Papallacta known for hot springs.
4 - "Termas de Papallacta" is a well known hot spring Spa and Resort.
5 - The trout fishing area.
6 - The ecological trail of with Paramo flora.
7 - A place to look for a condor (Vultur gyphus).

Hot Springs: Agua hedionda Baños Baños de Cuenca Chachimbiro Guapan Los Elenes Papallacta Tufiño