Adventure Brief
Escape Quito for a day and trade city air for steam and mountains. This shared trip to Papallacta delivers thermal pools, Andean panoramas and a relaxed spa experience at 3,250 m.
7–8 hours
easy
Family Friendly
No Experience Required
Escape Quito for a day and trade city air for steam and mountains. This shared trip to Papallacta delivers thermal pools, Andean panoramas and a relaxed spa experience at 3,250 m.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of the minivan and the air changes—thinner, colder, mineral-rich—pressing against your skin as the Andes open into a high valley. Steam rises from pools fed by water that fell as rain, sank into the Chacana volcanic caldera and met underground heat. The resort’s terraces sit against a backdrop of ragged ridges and cloud-thin forests; the water tugs at you with a warmth that feels purposeful, as if the mountain itself is offering relief.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
7–8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires ability to sit in a vehicle for the drive and walk short distances around the resort
Wildlife
History
The area’s thermal use traces to indigenous and colonial-era travelers; the modern resort developed around natural springs emerging from the Chacana volcanic system.
Conservation
The high-Andean paramo is fragile—stick to designated paths, limit single-use plastics and respect local signage to reduce erosion and water contamination.
Reserve your spot on the Shared Papallacta Tour from Quito today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize before you go
Spend a day in Quito or take it easy on arrival to reduce altitude discomfort at 3,250 m.
Bring a refillable water bottle
Hydration eases altitude effects and keeps you comfortable between pools and the drive.
Wear secure shoes
Roadside viewpoints and short walks around the resort can be slick; closed-toe shoes help.
Pack a swimsuit and quick-dry towel
You’ll want to move between pools and treatments without waiting for hotel laundry to dry.
Swimsuit
Required for thermal pools and spa treatments.
Light insulated jacket
Layering is important at high altitude where temperatures swing quickly.
Refillable water bottle
Staying hydrated helps manage altitude symptoms and fatigue.
Sturdy closed-toe shoes
Useful for short walks, viewpoints and uneven surfaces around the resort.