Zhagal Thermal Baths day trip: Hot & cold springs

The same thermal pools have both hot water and ice water, so you can alternate between them for a natural massage effect.

A day trip from Guayaquil to Zhagal Thermal Baths, a community thermal spring about three hours away, where you soak in natural pools of hot and cold water. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, along with a professional guide, lunch at a traditional restaurant, and transportation. The trip runs eight hours total and suits all fitness levels. Children from age four are welcome.

The experience

The day starts with pickup at your hotel at 7:30 AM, then a three-hour drive to the thermal baths near the Naranjal canton. Once you arrive, a five-minute walk along a small path takes you through the landscape: your guide points out the giant stones and explains the place as you go. The pools themselves are the draw: natural hot and cold water in the same location, so you can move between temperatures and let the contrast work on your muscles.

Lunch happens at a traditional restaurant in the community around midday, then you head back to Guayaquil. The whole outing is built around relaxation rather than rushing. The idea is to spend real time in the water and let the thermal properties do their work. A hat, sunscreen and comfortable walking shoes are worth bringing. The guide speaks English or Spanish, and the service operates in all weather, so dress for the conditions that day.

What’s included

• Hotel pickup and drop-off in Guayaquil.
• transportation to and from the thermal baths.
• professional guide in English or Spanish.
• lunch at a traditional restaurant.
• all taxes, fees and handling charges.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 07:30

Book up to4h before

AgesAdult (12 and older) · Child (4 to 11 years) · Under 4: can't be booked

GroupUp to 15

Live guideEnglish and Spanish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.You can choose from 34 pickup points.

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

Prices and times updated 2 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effort

Operated by Perfect Destiny

Is this one for you?This works well for small groups or families with children from age four who want a full day away from the city without strenuous activity. The eight-hour round trip and the focus on soaking rather than hiking make it a low-intensity escape.

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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 (4 to 11 years). Children under 4 can't be included in the booking.

How far is Zhagal Thermal Baths from Guayaquil?

Zhagal Thermal Baths is approximately three hours from Guayaquil by car. The drive is part of the day, and pickup from your hotel happens at 7:30 AM.

What exactly are the hot and cold pools like?

The pools are natural thermal springs with two water temperatures in the same place. You can alternate between the hot water and the ice water. The contrast creates a natural massage effect on your body.

Is lunch included in the day trip?

Yes, lunch at a traditional restaurant in the community is included. It happens around midday, after you've had time in the pools.

What should I bring or wear?

Bring a hat, sunscreen and comfortable shoes for the five-minute walk to the pools. The trip operates in all weather, so dress appropriately for the conditions on the day you go.