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Escape Quito for a day of highland scenery, a short páramo walk and long soaks in volcanic thermal pools. This full-day trip combines easy nature trails with restorative hot springs and striking views of Antisana.
Escape Quito for a day of highland scenery, a short páramo walk and long soaks in volcanic thermal pools. This full-day trip combines easy nature trails with restorative hot springs and striking views of Antisana.
You arrive before dawn and the road climbs out of Quito into a high, open world—wind already shaping the grass, clouds drifting low across volcanic ridgelines. The guide points out the Virgin’s Grotto at a pass above 4,000 m; Antisana’s glacier shoulders the horizon like a sleeping giant. By mid-morning you’re trading wind for steam, following the short La Isla interpretive loop through páramo scrub and tussock grass to learn how volcanic melt feeds the hot springs.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by NUNNA TRAVEL · Papallacta, Napo
You arrive before dawn and the road climbs out of Quito into a high, open world—wind already shaping the grass, clouds drifting low across volcanic ridgelines. The guide points out the Virgin’s Grotto at a pass above 4,000 m; Antisana’s glacier shoulders the horizon like a sleeping giant. By mid-morning you’re trading wind for steam, following the short La Isla interpretive loop through páramo scrub and tussock grass to learn how volcanic melt feeds the hot springs.
Papallacta’s thermal waters are fed from the high glaciers of Antisana and Cayambe-Coca, and locals have used the springs for generations for warmth and medicinal soaking. Geologically the valley is a product of volcanic activity and glacial carving; the landscape alternates lava-derived soils with boggy peat that supports unique páramo plants and hummingbirds.
Expect a balance of easy walking and long relaxation—an introductory nature walk (suitable for most fitness levels) followed by hours in warm mineral pools. Cultural notes: nearby communities have traditionally combined highland farming with service to visitors; trout farms and small cafés offer straightforward local meals.
Practical guidance: altitude is real—drink water, move slowly, and layer clothing for wind and sun. Wear sturdy shoes for muddy trails and pack swimwear and a towel. If you’re coming from Quito, plan on an 8–9 hour day with hotel pickup and drop-off included; bring cash for small purchases and tip your guide. The trip is an accessible way to experience Ecuador’s páramo and volcanic hydrology with minimal exertion and maximum thermal comfort.
easy.
8–9 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; able to walk short (0.5–2 km) interpretive trails at high altitude.
The tour is a full-day outing—expect about 8–9 hours including hotel pickup, stops at high viewpoints, a short nature walk, pool time and return to Quito.
Yes, families commonly come; however facilities and pool temperatures vary so supervise young children and check pool depths before entering.
Admission to the thermal pools is included in the standard tour (per the itinerary) but optional extras like towel rental or massages may cost extra.
This tour is not recommended for travelers with serious cardiovascular conditions and pregnant travelers should avoid hot-thermal bathing—consult your doctor beforehand.
The springs sit between Antisana and Cayambe-Coca, where volcanic meltwater and glacial runoff have long supplied thermal springs used by local communities.
The páramo is a fragile high-altitude ecosystem—stay on designated trails, avoid disturbing vegetation, and pack out trash to reduce impact.
NUNNA TRAVEL operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
You arrive before dawn and the road climbs out of Quito into a high, open world—wind already shaping the grass, clouds drifting low across volcanic ridgelines. The guide points out the Virgin’s Grotto at a pass above 4,000 m; Antisana’s glacier shoulders the horizon like a sleeping giant. By mid-morning you’re trading wind for steam, following the short La Isla interpretive loop through páramo scrub and tussock grass to learn how volcanic melt feeds the hot springs.
You arrive before dawn and the road climbs out of Quito into a high, open world—wind already shaping the grass, clouds drifting low across volcanic ridgelines. The guide points out the Virgin’s Grotto at a pass above 4,000 m; Antisana’s glacier shoulders the horizon like a sleeping giant. By mid-morning you’re trading wind for steam, following the short La Isla interpretive loop through páramo scrub and tussock grass to learn how volcanic melt feeds the hot springs.
Papallacta’s thermal waters are fed from the high glaciers of Antisana and Cayambe-Coca, and locals have used the springs for generations for warmth and medicinal soaking. Geologically the valley is a product of volcanic activity and glacial carving; the landscape alternates lava-derived soils with boggy peat that supports unique páramo plants and hummingbirds.
Expect a balance of easy walking and long relaxation—an introductory nature walk (suitable for most fitness levels) followed by hours in warm mineral pools. Cultural notes: nearby communities have traditionally combined highland farming with service to visitors; trout farms and small cafés offer straightforward local meals.
Practical guidance: altitude is real—drink water, move slowly, and layer clothing for wind and sun. Wear sturdy shoes for muddy trails and pack swimwear and a towel. If you’re coming from Quito, plan on an 8–9 hour day with hotel pickup and drop-off included; bring cash for small purchases and tip your guide. The trip is an accessible way to experience Ecuador’s páramo and volcanic hydrology with minimal exertion and maximum thermal comfort.