Papallacta Hot Springs: Ecuador’s Best Thermal Spa Destination

Tucked high in the Ecuadorian Andes at 3,300 meters (10,800 ft), the Papallacta Hot Springs (Termas de Papallacta) offer a magical blend of wellness, nature, and scenic beauty. Just a short drive from Quito, this geothermal haven attracts travelers looking to unwind in naturally heated pools surrounded by misty mountains and cloud forests.
 

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, recovery after hiking, or a romantic retreat, Papallacta is the perfect stop on your Ecuadorian adventure.

📍 Where Is Papallacta Hot Springs?

Location: Papallacta village, Napo Province, Ecuador

Distance from Quito: ~67 km (1.5 to 2 hours by car)

Altitude: 3,300 meters (10,800 ft)

Nearest Airport: Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) in Quito

Nestled between the Cayambe-Coca National Park and the Andean highlands, Papallacta is easily accessible but feels a world away.

🗓️ Best Time to Visit Papallacta

Papallacta is a year-round destination, but the weather varies by season.

☀️ Dry Season (June – September)

Crisp mountain air

Sunny, clear days

Ideal for hiking and photography

🌧️ Rainy Season (October – May)

Cooler temperatures

More mist and fog (adds to the thermal ambiance!)

Still enjoyable thanks to the hot springs' warmth

🌡️ Tip: Temperatures range from 5°C–20°C (41°F–68°F), so pack warm layers—even in summer.

🛁 What to Expect at Papallacta Hot Springs

1. Thermal Pools with Spectacular Views

The main attraction is the geothermal pools, fed by underground volcanic activity. These pools vary in temperature, allowing guests to alternate between:

Hot (~36–40°C / 97–104°F)

Warm (~28–34°C / 82–93°F)

Cold plunge pools for circulation

All are located outdoors and surrounded by mountains, gardens, and often mystical fog.

2. The Public Baths (Balneario Termas de Papallacta)

These are the budget-friendly hot springs open to the public.

Entry Fee: ~$9 USD per adult

Multiple pools with different temperatures

Family-friendly

Open 7 AM – 9 PM

🏊‍♀️ Bring your own towel and bathing suit. Lockers are available for a small fee.

3. The Exclusive Spa & Hotel Area

This is part of the Termas de Papallacta Resort, offering:

Private hot springs pools for guests

Spa services (massages, facials, aromatherapy)

Comfortable accommodations with thermal tubs

Restaurant and wellness café

💆 Ideal for couples and those wanting a more serene, upscale experience.

4. Wellness & Spa Treatments

Pamper yourself with:

Volcanic mud wraps

Hot stone massages

Hydrotherapy circuits

Facials and deep tissue massages

Treatments can be reserved at the spa reception and cost between $25–$70 USD.

🚶 Things to Do Around Papallacta

🏞️ 1. Hike the Cayambe-Coca Ecological Reserve

Right behind the hot springs resort is the Cayambe-Coca National Park, home to:

Cloud forests

Waterfalls

Andean flora and fauna (watch for spectacled bears and mountain tapirs!)

Popular Trail: Sendero de la Isla – 1–2 hours, scenic and easy loop trail.

🌄 2. Watch the Sunrise or Sunset

The combination of mist, mountains, and light creates a magical setting at dawn and dusk—perfect for meditation, photography, or simply soaking in silence.

📷 3. Wildlife and Birdwatching

The surrounding area is home to:

Hummingbirds

Andean condors (rare but possible)

Wild rabbits, deer, and even foxes

Orchids and other native plants

🍽️ 4. Enjoy Ecuadorian Highland Cuisine

Restaurants at Termas de Papallacta and in the village serve:

Trucha frita (fried trout) – the local specialty

Locro de papa (potato cheese soup)

Herbal teas made with Andean plants

Fresh juices, coffee, and empanadas

💡 Essential Travel Tips

What to Pack

Bathing suit and quick-dry towel

Flip-flops or sandals

Warm layers (it gets chilly at night!)

Water bottle

Camera and dry bag

Sunscreen (yes, even in the clouds!)

Health Considerations

Due to the high altitude, some visitors experience mild altitude sickness. Drink water, walk slowly, and avoid alcohol initially.

Pregnant travelers and people with heart conditions should check with a doctor before using hot springs.

🛌 Where to Stay at Papallacta

🏨 Termas de Papallacta Hotel & Spa (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Private pools outside every cabin

Direct access to the spa and hiking trails

Mid-to-high range pricing

Family suites and romantic cabins

🏠 Budget Options in Papallacta Village

Hostal Coturpa – clean and affordable

Hostería Pampallacta – rustic, thermal pools on-site

Hospedaje Mamallacta – good for backpackers

🚗 How to Get to Papallacta Hot Springs

🚘 By Car

From Quito: Take Route E20 east, past Cumbayá and Tumbaco, through scenic mountain roads (~1.5 hours).

Parking is available at the hot springs and hotels.

🚌 By Bus

From Terminal Quitumbe or Rio Coca in Quito, take a bus to Baeza, Tena, or Lago Agrio, and ask to stop at Papallacta

From the roadside, it’s a short walk or $2 taxi ride to the hot springs

🚖 By Taxi or Private Tour

Taxis from Quito ~$60–80 round trip

Private day tours are common and include transportation, entrance, and sometimes lunch

📸 Best Photo Spots

The main thermal pool with mountain backdrop

Misty morning fog over the pools

Trail bridges and cloud forest in Cayambe-Coca

Sunset from the spa cabin terraces

✅ Pros & Cons of Visiting Papallacta

🧠 Fun Facts About Papallacta

The hot springs are heated by geothermal activity from the Antisana Volcano.

The name “Papallacta” means “potato town” in Kichwa—reflecting the region’s agricultural history.

The water is rich in minerals believed to help with joint pain, circulation, and skin health.

The thermal system is carefully managed to protect the environment and ensure sustainability.

🌿 Sustainable Travel Tips

Use biodegradable toiletries in natural water zones.

Support local businesses and indigenous-owned guesthouses.

Stay on marked hiking trails to avoid damaging fragile flora.

Bring a refillable water bottle—the mountain spring water is delicious!

Final Thoughts: A Soothing Escape in Ecuador’s Highlands

Papallacta Hot Springs is more than just a wellness stop—it’s an Andean retreat where volcanic energy meets pristine nature. Whether you're traveling from Quito for a day or planning a couple’s weekend in the clouds, Papallacta offers healing, tranquility, and connection with nature.

It’s the perfect reminder that sometimes, the best part of travel is slowing down and soaking it all in—literally.