If you are looking for a relaxing and scenic destination in Ecuador, you might want to consider Papallacta, a small town in the Andes Mountains. Papallacta is famous for its natural hot springs, which are heated by the nearby Antisana Volcano. The hot springs offer a variety of health benefits, such as improving blood circulation, relieving stress and soothing sore muscles.
But Papallacta is not only about hot springs. There are many other attractions that you can enjoy in this area, such as:
- El Nevado Antisana: This is the fourth highest volcano in Ecuador, with a summit of 5,704 meters above sea level. You can admire its majestic beauty from different viewpoints, or hike to its glacier and lagoons.
- Laguna de Papallacta: This is a large lake that lies at an altitude of 3,300 meters. It is surrounded by lush vegetation and diverse wildlife, such as hummingbirds, deer and rabbits. You can go fishing, kayaking or birdwatching here.
- Jamanco: This is a complex of thermal pools and cabins that offer a cozy and rustic experience. You can soak in the mineral-rich waters, enjoy a massage or a sauna, or taste some local cuisine at the restaurant.
- Santa Catalina: This is another option for hot springs lovers, with more modern facilities and services. You can choose from different pools with different temperatures and views, or pamper yourself at the spa.
- Termas de Papallacta: This is the most popular and luxurious hot springs resort in Papallacta. It has several pools with different sizes and shapes, as well as a hotel, a spa and a restaurant. You can also access some hiking trails that lead to the Cayambe-Coca National Park.
- Cayambe-Coca National Park: This is a protected area that covers more than 400,000 hectares of diverse ecosystems, such as paramo, cloud forest and rainforest. It is home to more than 80 lagoons, waterfalls, rivers and streams, as well as many species of plants and animals, such as bears, condors and orchids.
- El Duende Waterfalls: These are two beautiful waterfalls that are located near the town of Papallacta. You can reach them by a short hike through a forest path.
As you can see, Papallacta has something for everyone. Whether you want to relax, explore or learn more about the culture and nature of Ecuador, you will find it here. Papallacta is a place where you can reconnect with yourself and with nature, and enjoy a memorable vacation.