Private Papallacta Volcanic Hot Springs Day Tour
Active
10h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Papallacta is a small Ecuadorian highlands village located at the Andes mountain range (east side) and about 1.5-hour from Quito. This town has an altitude of 3,300 m. This road also leads into the Amazon jungle. Papallacta is known for its famous hot springs. These thermal volcanic waters feed Papallacta's many tourist complex arising from deep geological layers through fissures up to the surface with all its healthy potential. The source temperature of the thermal baths varies between 30°C and 70°C (86°F and 158°F). At some pools the temperature ranges from 36°C to 38°C (97°F to 100.4°F). Papallacta's thermal waters contain sulfates, sodium, calcium, chloride and traces of magnesium which are odorless, colorless but have a slightly salty taste.
Available options
Private Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Locker at Papallacta hot springs.
Meals as described in the itinerary.
Professional English speaking driver/guide.
Entrace fees (Hot springs, Paramo path).
Transportation from and to Quito’s hotel (urban zone).
24/7 assistance in Dutch, English and Spanish.
Activities as described in the itinerary: swimming, relaxing.
Detailed itinerary
1
After one hour you will arrive at the village of Papallacta, where you will stop for a hot chocolate and a snack.
2
Around 11:00, you will take a hike of 1 and a half hours around the Papallacta river and into paramo landscapes.
3
Stop 3
After the hike, at around 12:30 PM, you can relax in the hot springs of Papallacta. These waters will help you to gently exfoliate your skin and relax your body. You can enjoy additional services such as facials, massages, and aromatherapy (with extra cost).
4
After lunch, you will return back to Quito. If you are back in Quito before 6:00 PM, you can visit the handcraft market in La Mariscal where you can buy some souvenirs. (Optional visit)
What's not included
Extra food and beverages.
Optional tips for the guide.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.0
2 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Important things to bring: warm and waterproof clothing, water, sunblock, sunglasses, bathing suit and a towel.
It is also possible to stay the night at the Termas Papallacta resort. Please send a message to check prices and availability.
Inform yourself about food safety when traveling to tropical countries. Take the necessary precaution to avoid food poisoning (always wash your hands before eating, don’t eat ‘street food’, only eat peeled fruits, etc.).
The operator cannot take any responsibility for any illnesses or missed meals & tours due to an illness.
It is mandatory that you will have current travel insurance including personal medical insurance. Please inform us of any known medical conditions you have.
The operator reserves the right to change the itinerary without previous notice due to weather conditions, availabilities, National Park regulations or notifications and unforeseeable circumstances.
A current valid passport is required on the day of travel.
In order to process your reservation please help us with all this information:
Pick-up location - Please let us know the pick-up location, so we can communicate that to the guide.
Whatsapp phone number (in case you use Whatsapp and would like us to contact you that during your stay via Whatsapp)
For all guests:
Passport numbers
Date of birth
Nationality
Food restrictions
Medical restrictions
Transportation included is from and to Quito’s hotel, located in the Quito urban Zone. It does not include Valleys, Tababela or hotels close to the airport. The extra charge of $ 40 (for the round trip per group) must be paid directly to the driver.
Important notes
Contact: Rebecca Adventure Travel office is based in Quito, Ecuador (Time zone: UTC -05.00). Please note that between office hours you can call our office phone (+593-26007590). You can reach us on the emergency phone (+593-980051675) 24/7 for EMERGENCIES, please don’t call us for availabilities or general questions.
Office hours: Monday - Friday 8:30-17:00 and Saturday 9:00-17.30
Voucher: Please note you receive from the operator an updated travel voucher based on your travel details, flights and availabilities. You will receive this updated travel voucher in general 2 weeks before departure via the Viator chat. If you haven’t received this please send us a message. Your standard Viator voucher is NOT your personal travel voucher and CAN’T be used during your trip.
About Quito
Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is a vibrant city nestled in the Andean highlands. It is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, rich cultural heritage, and stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern urban life.
Top Attractions
Historic Center of Quito
The Historic Center of Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring well-preserved colonial architecture, churches, and plazas.
Historical
Half to full day
Free to visit the plazas and streets; entry fees for churches and museums
TelefériQo
A cable car that takes visitors to the top of Cruz Loma for breathtaking views of Quito and the surrounding volcanoes.
Adventure
1-2 hours
Moderate
Mitad del Mundo
A monument marking the equator, where you can stand in both the northern and southern hemispheres at once.
Historical
Half day
Moderate
Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve
A unique crater reserve with hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and a chance to see local flora and fauna.
Nature
Half to full day
Budget
Basílica del Voto Nacional
One of the largest neo-Gothic basilicas in South America, offering stunning architecture and panoramic views from its towers.
Religious
1-2 hours
Budget
Capilla del Hombre
A museum dedicated to the works of Ecuadorian artist Oswaldo Guayasamín, featuring his paintings and sculptures.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Llocro de Papa
A hearty potato soup with cheese, avocado, and sometimes meat.
Dinner
Vegetarian options available
Cuy Asado
Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish.
Dinner
Contains meat
Encebollado
A fish soup with yuca, onions, and tomatoes, often served with pickled onions.
Lunch
Contains fish
Empanadas de Viento
Fried empanadas filled with cheese and sometimes meat, dusted with sugar.
Snack
Vegetarian options available
Popular Activities
Hiking in Cotopaxi National Park
Zip-lining in Mindo Cloud Forest
Paragliding over Quito
Soaking in Papallacta Hot Springs
Visiting La Ronda Street for live music and performances
Exploring the Historic Center at a leisurely pace
Visiting museums and cultural attractions in the Historic Center
Exploring local markets and shopping areas
Best Time to Visit
June to September
This is the dry season with clear skies and pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F)
54°F to 68°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
GMT-5
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Quito is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of pickpocketing, scams, and unsafe taxis. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
- • Use official taxis or app-based services for safer transportation.
- • Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas.
Getting there
By air
- Mariscal Sucre International Airport • 18 km (11 miles) from city center
By bus
Quito Bus Terminal (Ofelia)
Getting around
Public transport
Quito has a well-developed bus system, including the Trolebús and Ecovía, which are affordable and efficient.
Taxis
Available • Apps: InDriver, TaxiApp
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Historic Center (Centro Histórico)
La Floresta
González Suárez
El Panecillo
Day trips
Cotopaxi National Park
50 km (31 miles) south of Quito • Full day
A stunning national park featuring the Cotopaxi volcano, hiking trails, and wildlife.
Mindo Cloud Forest
80 km (50 miles) northwest of Quito • Full day
A lush cloud forest with hiking trails, waterfalls, and a variety of wildlife.
Papallacta Hot Springs
65 km (40 miles) northeast of Quito • Half to full day
Natural hot springs nestled in the Andes, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
Festivals
Fiestas de Quito • Early December
Inti Raymi • June 21-24
Semana Santa • March or April (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Visit the Historic Center early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
- Try local street food and snacks, such as empanadas, hornado, and choclo con queso.
- Use the Metrocable for a unique and scenic way to reach the historic center and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
- Be cautious of altitude sickness, as Quito's high elevation can cause headaches, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Drink plenty of water, take it easy, and allow time to acclimate.
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
