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Vermilion Routes

PAPALLACTA THERMAL SPRINGS & ANDEAN CLOUD FOREST

1 DAY (FULL DAY)
5(29 verified guest reviews)
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Mainland EcuadorWellness & Nature Day TourCertified Private Guide

Expedition Overview

Journey approximately two hours east of Quito along the historic cinnamon route to Papallacta Hot Springs. Cross the high Eastern Andes pass at 4,100 meters (13,451 ft) before descending into the dramatic transition zone between the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. Relax in volcanic naturally heated thermal pools with different temperatures while enjoying views of Antisana Volcano (5,704 m / 18,714 ft). Enjoy an optional scenic nature hike along mountain river trails and take time for wellness and rejuvenation.

EXPEDITION AT A GLANCE

Physical ActivityModerate (Level 2.5/5)Waterfall treks, equatorial experiments, rainforest canoe navigation
Average Climate12°C - 26°C (Andean Spring & Tropical Amazon)Year-round departures
Altitude Range500m to 4,100m (Amazon Basin to Papallacta Pass)
Key Wildlife Species
Andean CondorAmazonian CaimanGiant River Fish (Arapaima)Hummingbirds & ToucansSquirrel Monkeys

Key Itinerary Highlights

  • ✓
    Volcanic Mineral Thermal Pools with Mountain Views
  • ✓
    Panoramic Views of Snow-Capped Antisana Volcano
  • ✓
    High-Altitude Andes to Amazon Transition Zone Hike
  • ✓
    Spa & Hydrotherapy Relaxation Experience

Detailed Day-by-Day Expedition Itinerary

Explore verbatim daily activities, transport logistics, and naturalist-guided visits.

•

Depart Quito crossing the Eastern Andes at 4,100 m with panoramic views of the páramo.

Arrive at Papallacta Hot Springs and immerse in therapeutic thermal pools surrounded by pristine mountain air and lush vegetation.

Enjoy an included lunch and a guided scenic walk along river trails before returning to Quito in the afternoon.

Transport: Private comfortable tourist transport
Activity: Thermal bathing & nature walk

What is Included?

  • Round-trip private transportation from Quito
  • Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish)
  • Lunch included
  • Entrance ticket to the thermal pools at Papallacta
  • Scenic mountain river hike (weather permitting)

What is NOT Included?

  • Spa treatments (massages, mud baths, private hydromassage)
  • Personal towels or locker rentals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
Starting Price
5(29)
$85USD / per person
Duration: 1 DAY (FULL DAY)
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100% Flexible booking & no hidden fees
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Byron Ortiz & Expedition Team

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5.0 EXCELLENT

TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice 2026 Winner

100% verified 5-star reviews from international travelers.

TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice 2026 Winner

Verified Guest Reviews for PAPALLACTA THERMAL SPRINGS & ANDEAN CLOUD FOREST

Discover what recent travelers say about our personalized service, expert guides, and luxury stays.

4.9

TripAdvisor Verified Rating (4.9 / 5.0)

51 Reviews • #85 of 678 in Quito

AI Travel Intelligence Insights

“Guests consistently highlight private guide knowledge, seamless internal transfers, and exquisite boutique stays as standout qualities.”

100% Satisfaction Record
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Verificado en TripAdvisor

"A trip of a lifetime"

"Truly a magical trip that I will never forget. From hiking in The Avenue of the Volcanos to snorkeling with sea lions and turtles in the Galapagos you truly will never have a dull moment on this trip. Our tour guide Jhayro was truly the best guide. Went above and beyond to make sure everyone was taken care of and provided many additional activities for us on the tour."

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"The best trip!"

"This was the best trip! Our tour guide, Vermilion Jhayro was extremely knowledgeable and showed us the best of Ecuador. His kind, caring, and friendly personality made the trip unforgettable. I highly recommend taking this trip with him as your guide!"

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Alana F

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"Hola vida!"

"My time with Jhayro was truly excellent, I couldn’t have asked for a better tour director for our 11 days in Ecuador. From start to finish, he went above and beyond to make the experience unforgettable. Visiting an indigenous community in the Amazon, sharing an authentic meal, exploring an animal refuge, and hiking to a beautiful waterfall were experiences I never would have been able to organize on my own."

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Katie V

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"Incredible trip!"

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