A private day trip east of Quito that pairs volcanic hot springs with highland birding at Guango Reserve. Soak in mineral pools above 3,200 m then scan cloud-forest edges for toucans, hummingbirds and Andean specialties.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Steam rises off the pools like a slow exhale from the high Andes, and for a few minutes the world narrows to the hiss of thermal water and a skyline cleaved by the Eastern Cordillera. The hot springs at Papallacta sit above 3,200 m (about 10,600 ft), a ring of pools that face steep páramo slopes and, on clear days, the distant cone of Antisana daring the clouds to move.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6–8 hours
Fitness Level
Light fitness required: short, uneven walks and standing during birding; not recommended for people with severe mobility limits without assistance.
Wildlife
History
Papallacta’s springs have been used by local communities for generations and were later developed into a spa complex; the surrounding páramo has long been important for watershed protection.
Conservation
The area is sensitive: the páramo stores water for downstream ecosystems and communities, and birding programs at Guango support local conservation and sustainable tourism.
Reserve your spot on the Papallacta Hot Springs & Guango Birding Reserve Private Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Layer for altitude
Temperatures swing between warm pools and cold highland air—bring thermal base layers and a windproof shell.
Bring optics
A compact pair of binoculars (7–10x) will unlock most bird sightings at Guango; a telephoto lens helps for photos.
Hydrate and acclimatize
Drink water before you go—elevation and steam can dehydrate quickly; take it easy on exertion your first hour.
Respect birding etiquette
Keep noise low and stay on trails; Guango’s hummingbirds and specialty species are sensitive to disturbance.
Binoculars (7–10x)
Close-focus optics are essential for spotting hummingbirds and toucans in the cloud forest.
Swimwear and quick-dry towel
Necessary for using the thermal pools and drying off between dips.
Waterproof walking shoes
Trails around Guango and access roads can be muddy and uneven; ankle support helps.
Insulating midlayer and wind shell
High-altitude mornings and wind require warm, packable layers you can remove while soaking.