How to Visit Papallacta Hot Springs From Quito Ecuador

Surrounded by misty mountains and warmed by volcanic waters, visiting Papallacta from Quito was one of the highlights of my six-week trip to Ecuador.

You’ll first need to decide if you want to take a day trip to Papallacta hot springs or stay overnight at the hotel resort to soak in every moment of its mineral-rich waters.

When I first started planning, I was confused by the layout of Papallacta resort. There are multiple thermal bath areas at different prices. And since the difference between them wasn’t clear on the official site, I arrived with some confusion.

So I put together this guide based on my own trip. You’ll find everything you need to know to plan your visit, from how to get there, what each area includes, and whether it’s worth staying at the Papallacta hotel.

Spoiler alert: It is! And the hot springs spa area is worth the extra cost if you love hot springs as much as I do. I’ll tell you why I think so below. I also share tips and personal recommendations to help you make the most of your time.

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Where is Papallacta?

Papallacta is a small mountain town in the Andes mountains, located about 40 miles (65 km) east of Quito, Ecuador. Sitting at an altitude of 10,660 feet (3,250 meters). It’s surrounded by cloud forest and páramo landscapes near the entrance to Cayambe-Coca National Park.

While the town itself is small, it’s best known for Termas de Papallacta Spa, a hot spring resort set in the mountains just above town. Whether you visit as a day trip or overnight stay, the peaceful atmosphere surrounded by nature is part of what makes Papallacta hot springs so amazing.

How to get from Quito to Papallacta

The route from Quito to Papallacta climbs steadily through the mountains with beautiful views of the Andean highlands and páramo landscapes along the way. It’s a scenic trip that takes about two hours, depending on traffic and your starting point in the city.

Whether you go to Papallacta by bus, tour, rental car, or Uber, the journey is part of the experience. Here are the main ways to get there and what to expect from each.

Papallacta Tours from Quito

If you only have one day to visit, booking a tour to Papallacta hot springs is a great way to maximize your time. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll have a better chance of spotting Andean bears, hummingbirds, and other wildlife in the surrounding highlands.

A Papallacta tour is also the most comfortable option, with door-to-door service so you can relax and enjoy the mountain views instead of navigating buses. Depending on your interests, here are a few options with transport included.

Bus from Quito to Papallacta

The best way to travel from Quito to Papallacta by bus is from the Quitumbe terminal (map) in the south of the city. From here, you can catch a bus heading to Tena, Coca, or Lago Agrio, all of which pass by Papallacta. 

Just make sure to tell them when you buy the ticket that you’re going to Papallacta. I recommend letting the bus assistant know as well. While it’s possible to travel from the northern Quito bus terminal, it requires a transfer, so it’s generally not recommended.

• Departures every 30-60 minutes
• Cost $3-4 USD each way
• About 2.5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions
• If you’re staying in the north or central part of the city, take the Quito Metro to Quitumbe (the last stop on the metro line). This is the fastest way to cross the city and avoid traffic.
• The bus will drop you off along the main road near the entrance to the town. From there, it’s a short taxi ride ($2–3 USD) or a 45-minute uphill walk to Papallacta hot springs resort.

Not sure the bus or a Papallacta day trip tour is right for you? I’ve also added details for renting a car or taking an Uber for the two hour ride. You can skip ahead to learn more but come back for the hot springs details.

Papallacta Day Trip or Stay Overnight?

Taking a day trip to Papallacta is a great option but if you have the time, I highly recommend you book a cabin at the hot springs. Staying overnight gives you time to slow down and explore the area. 

One of the best perks? Hotel guests have 24 hour access to the hot springs near the cabins when the stars are out. And if you’re like me, you’ll probably be back for a soak first thing in the morning too.

Is Papallacta worth visiting?

Yes, Papallacta is absolutely worth visiting, especially if you enjoy hot springs and mountain scenery. The pools are surrounded by nature, the resort is well-maintained, and the setting is peaceful. Whether you visit for a day or stay overnight, it’s a relaxing and scenic escape from Quito.

After visiting a variety of hot springs in Ecuador, Papallacta was my favorite. Although it was a close second to the spa like hot springs near Cuenca (see below).

Papallacta Hot Springs Resort

The Termas Papallacta resort is divided into three main parts: the Balneario, the Spa, and the hotel cabañas. Each one has its own thermal pools, and all include a cold plunge filled with refreshing river water.

The pools vary slightly in temperature, ambiance, and setting—but all have beautiful mountain views. I found sufficiently hot water in every section, and which one you prefer really depends on the experience you’re looking for.

Here is a map of the hot springs, but continue reading for details about my experience in each area.

Spa at Termas de Papallacta

The Papallacta Spa is the most tranquil area. It’s tucked into a garden-like setting with orchids, stone paths, and mountain views. There are several hot spring pools at different temperatures with piped water massage jets.

You’ll also find a separate building for massages and other spa services for an extra fee. The entry fee here is higher than the balneario but it includes a towel, locker, and swimming cap. You can rent a robe, which I highly recommend.

This area was the most relaxing ambiance during our visit, with fewer people and a more peaceful atmosphere overall. Keep in mind, when you stay at Papallacta hotel, the entrance fee is discounted.

Balneario Aguas Termales

This is the main area of hot springs, with several large pools and a cold plunge. As you soak, you’ll hear the sound of the river nearby. It’s popular with families so it’s more lively, but still offers beautiful views and relaxing thermal waters.

The landscaping feels a bit more wild than in the spa area, but with similar lovely walking paths and plants throughout. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a more affordable soak in a natural setting.

Cabaña Termales (Hotel Guests Only)

Each cluster of cabañas at Papallacta hotel has its own thermal pools and a cold plunge. These are only available to overnight guests and are located just steps from your room.

The setting here is more enclosed, with similar paths and tropical plants. One of the biggest perks is when you book a room at Papallacta Hotel, you’re given 24-hour access to these pools.

Papallacta Hotel Restaurants

Outside food and drinks aren’t permitted. So if you’re spending the day at Papallacta resort, you’ll need to plan on eating at one of the restaurants.

The spa and hotel restaurants serve a range of Ecuadorian food at a similar price point. For a lighter option, appetizers, soups, and snacks are around $10 USD. Entrees range from $14–30 USD. If you’re staying at the hotel or visiting the spa, you can charge your meal to your room or wristband.

For a more affordable option, the Balneario restaurant offers a menu del día. It includes soup, a main dish, and the drink of the day for about $10 USD. The vegetarian options here also looked more varied and interesting than the other menus. You’ll need cash or card to pay.

Hiking Near Papallacta

If you want to get into nature, there is an easy, well-marked trail that starts right from Termas Papallacta and perfectly pairs with soaking in the hot springs after. 

La Isla Trail

• Distance: about 1.2 mi (1.9 km) loop, roughly 40–60 minutes round-trip
• Terrain: light uphill following a small stream through cloud forest and páramo habitat, with wooden bridges and river viewing spot
• Elevation: While the elevation gain from the resort isn’t a lot, if you’re coming from a lower altitude you may notice the effects.
• What you’ll see: mossy forest, orchids, Polylepis trees, and small wildlife or birds along the way

You can continue on past the trail and into the national park. Although if you’d like some guidance, you should book this tour which visits the park and the hot springs.

Tips for Visiting Papallacta

Between the high elevation, variable weather, and multiple areas within the resort, it’s helpful to know what to expect before you go. Whether you’re visiting for the day or spending the night, a few simple items can make your experience more comfortable.

• Rent a robe if you’re spending time in the spa pools
• Soak, rest, repeat. Alternating with a break or cold plunge to prevent overheating.
• Give yourself time to adjust. You’re over 10,000 feet here.
• Plan time for lunch or a snack between soaking sessions. It makes the experience feel more like a mini retreat

What to Bring to Papallacta Hot Springs

• Bathing suit – you’ll want one for every pool, obviously.
• Flip flops – for walking between pools and changing areas.
• Hat and sunglasses – the sun is strong at high altitude.
• Sunscreen – only provided in the spa, and it’s nice to have your own.
• Plastic bag – useful for carrying a wet swimsuit after you change.
• Water bottle – to stay hydrated, especially at altitude.
• Light jacket or layers – it can cool down quickly in the evenings.

Thermal Water Benefits at Papallacta

The hot springs at Papallacta are naturally heated by the Chacana volcanic complex, which has been active for more than 3 million years. The pools are fed by rainwater that filters through the volcanic caldera, absorbing heat from the magma and minerals like sulfate, sodium, calcium, and chloride along the way.

These mineral-rich waters are thought to have several therapeutic benefits, including:

• Relieving joint and muscle pain
• Reducing stress, anxiety, and insomnia
• Improving circulation and helping remove toxins
• Easing respiratory, digestive, and skin conditions
• Relaxing muscles and releasing built-up tension

Whether you’re soaking for physical relief or just to unwind in nature, the combination of mineral water, fresh air, and mountain views makes Papallacta hot springs a deeply restorative experience.

Alternative Ways to Get to Papallacta from Quito

If taking the bus or booking a tour doesn’t appeal to you, here are two alternatives to get to Papallacta from Quito. In my opinion, they are less desirable but to each their own.

Take an Uber from Quito to Papallacta

An Uber from Quito to Papallacta typically costs $60–80 USD, depending on your starting point and time of day. If you’re traveling with a group, splitting the fare can make it a reasonable option, but it’s still significantly more expensive than taking the bus.

When we arrived by bus, we took a taxi the rest of the way to the hot springs and got the driver’s number. A few hours before we were ready to leave, we messaged her to confirm a return trip.

For $40 USD, she picked us up and dropped us off directly at our hotel in Quito. It was more than the bus fare, but after a long soak we were happy to skip the wait and ride back in comfort.

Rent a Car and Drive

If you prefer flexibility or want to explore more of the Andes on your own, renting a car is a great option. The drive to Papallacta takes 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and where you’re staying in Quito.

The road is fully paved and in good condition, but it winds through the mountains and climbs in elevation, so it’s best to drive cautiously, especially in rain or fog.

For the easiest departure, look for a rental car on the east side of the city to minimize city driving. You can use this site to search Quito car rentals by map and find pickup locations that work best for your route.

Visiting Papallacta Hot Springs

Whether you’re planning a relaxing day trip from Quito or adding a restorative stop to your Ecuador itinerary, Papallacta hot springs is an ideal balance of nature and relaxation.

With mineral-rich pools, fresh mountain air, and the option to hike or simply soak it all in, a visit here is restorative. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down and and soak it all in, literally.