Papallacta Hot Springs Tour from Quito: Hike and Thermal Pools

Hike the Andean forest, then slip into volcanic thermal water

A full-day tour from Quito to Papallacta Hot Springs combines a guided hike through high-altitude forest with time soaking in natural thermal pools fed by volcanic springs. The drive takes 90 minutes each way through the eastern Andes, with stops to learn about local ecology. The hike lasts about an hour at 11,000 feet, high elevation but not strenuous, followed by lunch on your own and several hours at the pools. An English or Spanish-speaking guide leads the group. Hotel pickup in Quito is included.

Step-by-step itinerary

Explore Papallacta and relax at hot springs

• Pick up at hotel in Quito
• Drive to Papallacta with scenic stops
• Hike around Andean forest
• Lunch at Termas de Papallacta restaurant
• Relax at thermal water pools
• Optional spa massage and treatments
• Drive back to Quito hotel

The experience

The day starts with pickup at your Quito hotel and a 90-minute drive toward Papallacta through the eastern Andes. Along the way, the guide stops to point out the Polilepys Forest and the Virgin of the Grasslands shrine at 12,300 feet, the highest point of the trip. By the time you reach Papallacta, you've already climbed into a different climate and landscape.

The hike itself follows la Isla Trail through the Andean forest for about an hour at 11,000 feet. The elevation is real, but the terrain is manageable for most fitness levels. You'll move slowly enough to photograph the forest and hear about the local plants and wildlife. After the hike, you have time for a traditional lunch at the Termas de Papallacta restaurant (you order and pay separately here), before heading to the thermal pools.

The pools are fed by volcanic springs and stay warm year-round. You can spend the afternoon floating and soaking as long as you want before the drive back to Quito. Massages and spa treatments are available at the site if you want them, but they cost extra and aren't part of the tour package.

What’s included

• Hotel pickup and return transport from Quito.
• private transportation to and from Papallacta.
• English or Spanish-speaking guide.
• the hike on la Isla Trail.
• entry to the thermal pools.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 08:30

Book up to4h before

AgesAdult (13 to 85 years) · Child (3 to 12 years) · Under 3: can't be booked

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish and Spanish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated 8 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortWheelchair accessibleAccessible transportNot recommended with heart problems

Operated by Guide Ecuador Travel

Is this one for you?Pick this if you're starting from central Quito and want hotel pickup included. Otherwise, you'll need your own transport to the mountain trailhead.

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (3 to 12 years). Children under 3 can't be included in the booking.

How far is Papallacta from Quito, and how long is the drive?

Papallacta is 45 miles from Quito, and the drive takes 90 minutes each way. The route climbs through the eastern Andes with stops along the way to learn about the forest and local landmarks.

What's the hike like at that elevation?

La Isla Trail is about an hour long at 11,000 feet, high enough to feel the altitude but not so steep or long that it requires mountaineering experience. The pace is slow enough to take in the forest and photograph the scenery.

Is lunch included in the tour?

Lunch is not included. You order and pay separately at the Termas de Papallacta restaurant after the hike. The tour gives you time to eat before you move to the pools.

Can I add a massage or spa treatment?

Yes, massages and body treatments are available at the thermal pools for an extra cost. You can book them on the day or arrange them in advance if you prefer.

What's included in the tour price?

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Quito, private transportation, the guided hike, entry to the thermal pools, and an English or Spanish-speaking guide for the full day.