The Best Places to Stay in Banos, Ecuador: 9 Top Hotels & Areas for Every Traveler

Baños de Agua Santa, Ecuador, isn’t just another stop on your itinerary—it’s the adventure capital of Ecuador. This small town, surrounded by waterfalls, hot springs, and cloud forests, is perfect for all types of travelers. One minute you’re swinging off a cliff at Casa del Árbol, the next, you’re soaking in a volcanic hot spring.

I spent five days in Baños after some intense hiking in Cotopaxi National Park, and it was exactly what I needed. My legs were wrecked, but between the thermal baths, scenic waterfalls, and way too many fresh juices, I left feeling reset and re-energized (and, okay, a little addicted to empanadas).

To make it easier for you to find the perfect hotel or guesthouse right away, I’ve put together this guide on the best places to stay in Baños, including extra info on Banos, tips, and personal recommendations.

Why Picking the Right Place to Stay in Banos Matters

Baños has a little bit of everything when it comes to accommodation—budget hostels packed with backpackers, local boutique hotels with cozy vibes, and luxurious spa resorts in the hills. But where you stay can make or break your trip.

Want to be in the middle of the action, within walking distance of every empanada stand in town? Or are you looking for a quiet spot in the hills where you can wake up to insane mountain views? I tried a little bit of both, and in this guide, I’ll help you pick the perfect place for your trip.

Let’s break it down so you can find the perfect stay for your trip.

Where Should You Stay in Baños? (Quick Picks)

• Best for budget travelers → Great Hostels Backpackers
• Best for couples → Spa Hosteria Miramelindo
• Best for nature lovers → Luna Volcán Adventure Spa
• Best for hot springs access → Sangay Spa Hotel

Best Time to Visit Baños

Baños is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for.

• December to March (High Season): The busiest time, with warm weather and lots of travelers. Expect lively streets, packed hostels, and the best conditions for hiking and adventure sports.
• April to June (Shoulder Season): Fewer crowds, occasional rain, and a more relaxed vibe. A great balance if you want decent weather without the peak-season madness.
• July to August (Mini High Season): Popular with European travelers, so things get busy again. Good weather, but book ahead if you’re coming during this time.
• September to November (Low Season): Usually quieter with a mix of sun and rain, but when I visited in September, I had zero rain and still met plenty of international tourists. If you want fewer crowds without feeling like the only tourist in town, this is a great time to go.

No matter when you visit, Baños always has something to offer—just pack those layers because the weather loves to keep you on your toes!

Best Areas to Stay in Baños

1. Baños City Center – Best for First-Time Visitors & Budget Travelers

Staying in the city center means you’re close to everything—restaurants, markets, bars, and tour agencies. If you’re planning to do a lot of adventure activities, this is the most convenient spot since tour operators are within walking distance. It’s also where you’ll find most of the town’s budget-friendly hostels and hotels.

This area has a super social vibe, especially in the evenings when travelers pack into cafés, swap adventure stories over drinks, and make last-minute plans to go canyoning the next morning (questionable decision, but you’ll probably say yes).

I stayed in the city center as a solo traveler and had zero trouble making friends—between the hostel hangouts, group tours, and impromptu bar crawls, my five days in Baños flew by.

Plus, everything is walkable, which means no sketchy late-night taxis, just a short stroll back to your bed. If you’re a light sleeper, though, be warned—the nightlife here goes late. If you need actual sleep, look for a place a few blocks from the action.

Stay here if: you want to be within walking distance of food, tours, and nightlife.
Keep in mind: it can get noisy, especially around bars and hostels.

2. Near the Thermal Baths – Best for Relaxation & Hot Spring Lovers

If soaking in volcanic hot springs is at the top of your to-do list, staying near Termas de la Virgen is a great option. This area offers a mix of mid-range hotels and guesthouses, many of which are within walking distance of the thermal baths.

It’s a little quieter than the city center but still close enough that you won’t feel isolated. Some hotels even have their own private hot spring pools, perfect for a post-adventure soak without the crowds.

Stay here if: you want to roll out of bed and straight into a hot spring.
Keep in mind: that while the area is still near town, there’s not as much nightlife or dining compared to the city center.

3. Countryside & Surrounding Hills – Best for Nature & Epic Views

For a more relaxing atmosphere, check out the lodges and eco-hotels in the hills surrounding Baños. These places have stunning views of waterfalls and mountains, plus plenty of hiking trails nearby. It’s a great option if you want to wake up to fresh air, birdsong, and panoramic scenery.

The trade-off is that you’ll need to take a short taxi ride or rent a bike to get into town. Some hotels offer town and airport shuttle services, but not all, so double-check before booking. If you’re looking for a place to completely unwind while still being close enough to enjoy Baños’ activities, this is a great choice.

Stay here if: you want to be surrounded by nature with beautiful views.
Keep in mind: that some places can be a bit remote, so check if they offer transportation or dining options.

💡Looking for more off-the-beaten-path destinations in Ecuador? Check out Mompiche, a laid-back coastal gem with epic surf, chill beach vibes, and unique places to stay. Here’s my guide to the best places to stay in Mompiche—you might just find your next stop!

Best Hotels in Banos by Budget

Whether you’re rolling in with a backpack looking for cheap hotels or ready to splurge on some serious comfort, Baños has options for every traveler. Here’s where to stay based on what you’re looking for.

Budget-Friendly Stays in Banos ($)

Great Hostels Backpackers // My favorite Place to stay in Banos!

If you’re traveling solo and actually want to meet people (not just sit in a corner pretending to read a book), this is the spot. I stayed here and within hours had a group of friends to explore with. We did a self-guided waterfall tour, played pool, and went out every night—all without ever needing a taxi.

Mornings started with a solid free breakfast, and evenings were spent around the fire pits and hammocks. The social vibe is unbeatable, and if you’re looking for budget-friendly fun, this is the place to be. Digital Nomads will love the free wifi!

Click here for bookings & information

Hostal Transilvania

A cozy, no-frills option that’s easy on the wallet. The rooms are basic but comfortable, and they throw in a free good breakfast, which is always a win. It has a central location, so you’re close to restaurants and tour agencies, but it’s a little quieter than the bigger backpacker hostels.

Click here for bookings & information

La Casa del Molino Blanco

If you like the idea of a hostel but prefer a more peaceful setting, this eco-friendly spot is perfect. It’s got dorms and private rooms, a great free breakfast, and a relaxed atmosphere. It has a great location just a little outside the main party scene, so if you’re looking for a good night’s sleep after a long day of adventuring, this is a solid choice.

Click here for bookings & information

La Casa Verde Eco Guest House

If you’re craving mountain views and a quieter escape, this eco-friendly guesthouse is a gem. It’s tucked away in the hills outside of town, offering insane panoramic scenery and a laid-back vibe. The focus here is sustainability, comfort, and connecting with nature—without breaking the bank. You’ll need to take a short taxi ride to get into the center, but waking up to those surrounding mountain views? Worth it.

Click here for bookings & information

Mid-Range Stays in Banos ($$)

La Floresta Hotel

This charming hotel is set in a lush garden, giving it a peaceful vibe while still being close to town. The spacious rooms have a cozy, rustic feel, and the outdoor hammocks make it a great spot to unwind after a long day of exploring. Plus, the free breakfast is a nice bonus. If you’re looking for a relaxing stay without breaking the bank, this is a solid choice.

Click here for bookings & information

Sangay Spa Hotel

You can’t beat this location—right across from the famous thermal baths. After a long day of adventures (or a long night out), nothing beats a soak in the natural hot springs, followed by a spa treatment at the hotel. There’s also a swimming pool, laundry service, gym, free wi fi, and even a game room, making it one of the most popular hotels if you want a mix of relaxation and fun.

Click here for bookings & information

Casa del Balcón

This boutique-style hotel is perfect for travelers who want something a little more unique. The rooms are beautifully decorated with crazy comfortable beds, many with private balconies that overlook the town or surrounding mountains. The staff here is super welcoming, and it feels more like a home than a hotel. If you want a cozy, Instagram-worthy stay without the luxury price tag, this is a great option.

Click here for bookings & information

Luxury & Unique Stays in Banos ($$$)

Luna Volcán Adventure Spa

If you’re looking to treat yourself, this is the spot. This place is way up in the hills, so the views over Baños are absolutely unreal—especially from the hot tubs. Imagine soaking in warm water, drink in hand, watching the sun dip behind the mountains. Yeah, it’s that good. It’s definitely a splurge, but if you’re going for once-in-a-lifetime vibes, this place delivers.

Click here for bookings & information

Samari Spa Resort

Step into colonial-style luxury at Samari Spa, where you’ll find gorgeous stone archways, lush gardens, and on-site massage services that makes it way too easy to forget about the outside world. The rooms are spacious, the service is top-tier, and the heated indoor pool is perfect if you’re visiting during Baños’ cooler months. If your idea of adventure involves high-thread-count sheets and a massage, this is your place.

Click here for bookings & information

Finca Chamanapamba Guest House

This one’s for the nature lovers. It’s tucked away in the jungle just outside Baños, with waterfalls right in the backyard. The cabins are cozy, wooden, and perfectly balance an off-the-grid feel with modern comfort. It’s not your typical luxury stay—no marble floors or butlers—but if you’re into stunning scenery, unique places, and feeling like you’re in a secret hideaway, this one’s a winner.

Click here for bookings & information

Final Tips for Booking in Baños

• Think about your vibe. Want to meet people and go out? Stay in the center. Prefer peace and quiet? Look for something in the hills or just outside of town.
• Weekend noise is real. Baños knows how to party, and if you’re a light sleeper, you’ll want to pick a place a few blocks away from the main nightlife streets.
• Book ahead for the good spots. The best budget and luxury stays fill up fast, especially in high season (December–March). If you have your heart set on a place, don’t wait too long to book.
• Check if breakfast is included. A lot of places offer free breakfast, and that’s one less thing to think about before heading out for a day of adventures.
• Pack layers. The weather in Baños can’t make up its mind—warm during the day, chilly at night, and sometimes rainy out of nowhere. Bring a mix of clothes so you’re ready for whatever it throws at you.
• Don’t stress too much. Baños is small and easy to get around, so no matter where you stay, you’re never too far from the action.

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Baños, Ecuador

Is Baños, Ecuador worth visiting?

Absolutely! Baños de Agua Santa is one of Ecuador’s top destinations for a reason. Whether you’re into adventure sports, hot springs, waterfalls, or just a laid-back mountain town vibe, there’s something for everyone. It’s the perfect mix of thrill and chill, making it a must-visit.

How many days do you need in Baños, Ecuador?

It depends on how much adventure you want! Three to four days is a solid amount of time to hit the main highlights—swing at Casa del Árbol, bike the waterfall route, soak in the hot springs, and maybe even go white-water rafting. I stayed five days after hiking Cotopaxi and still felt like I could’ve done more.

Why is Baños famous?

Baños is known as Ecuador’s adventure capital, thanks to its waterfalls, thermal baths, and extreme sports like canyoning, bungee jumping, and zip-lining. It’s also famous for Casa del Árbol (the Swing at the End of the World), where you can swing over a cliff with epic views of Tungurahua Volcano.

Where to stay in Baños, Ecuador?

Baños has something for every budget:

• Budget: Great Hostels Backpackers (social, fun, and great for meeting people)
• Mid-Range: La Floresta Hotel (beautiful gardens and spacious rooms)
• Luxury: Luna Volcán Adventure Spa (stunning views and private hot tubs)

Check out my full Baños accommodation guide above for all the best places to stay!

Is Baños, Ecuador safe?

Yes! Baños is one of the safest tourist towns in Ecuador. It’s small, walkable, and filled with travelers, so you never feel isolated. Like anywhere, just use common sense—watch your stuff in crowded areas, avoid walking alone late at night in quiet spots, and be mindful of your belongings on buses. But overall, it’s a very safe and friendly place to visit.

Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Stay in Banos

Baños is the kind of place that sucks you in and makes you want to stay longer—whether it’s the endless outdoor adventures, the fun nightlife, or just the chill, small-town energy.

No matter what kind of traveler you are, there’s a perfect stay for you, whether that means a budget-friendly hostel with a social vibe, a cozy mid-range hotel, or a luxury spot with epic views and hot tubs.

But if you’re solo or looking to meet people, Great Hostels Backpackers is the move. I stayed there, made friends right away, and had some of my best memories in Ecuador. No matter where you end up, I know your stay in Baños will be just as awesome!

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