Papallacta Thermals Pools Private Day Trip from Quito

Experience the Best of Ecuador’s Nature with a Private Day Trip to Papallacta

If you’re looking to escape the hustle of Quito and treat yourself to a day of relaxation amid stunning mountain scenery, the Papallacta Thermal Pools Private Day Trip might just be your perfect antidote. Priced at $113 per person, this roughly 8 to 9-hour journey offers a blend of scenic drives, gentle hikes, and soothing hot springs, all wrapped up with the comfort of private transportation and a dedicated guide.

What makes this tour stand out for us is the chance to enjoy the magnificent views of the Andes and Antisana volcano without worrying about navigation or crowded spots. The flexibility of a private experience means you can choose how much time to spend soaking in the hot springs or exploring the trails, making it a personalized escape.

One potential consideration is the weather — high-altitude mountain fog or clouds can obscure the views, but even then, the unique atmosphere adds to the adventure.

This trip suits travelers who crave authentic natural experiences, appreciate comfort and personalized service, and want a manageable day trip from Quito without the hassle of group tours.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour with customized itinerary options.
• Stunning Views: Scenic drive through the Andes with possible views of volcanoes.
• Relaxation & Adventure: Combines gentle hiking with soaking in thermal springs.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off included.
• Expert Local Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights.
• Good Value: All-included price offers a balanced mix of activities and comfort.

An In-Depth Look at the Papallacta Thermal Pools Private Day Trip

When considering a day trip from Quito, this excursion balances natural beauty, comfort, and flexibility. It’s perfect for travelers who want a break from city sightseeing and are eager to experience Ecuador’s mountain landscapes without the rigmarole of group tours.

The Journey Begins: Quito to the Andes

The trip kicks off with a scenic drive that climbs into the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes. Your guide will handle the driving, so you can sit back and enjoy the views. Reaching an altitude of around 4,000 meters, this part of the journey can sometimes be foggy, but on clear days, it offers spectacular vistas of Antisana volcano and the surrounding paramo.

A highlight here is the opportunity to appreciate how the landscape transitions from city to mountains. As one reviewer pointed out, “You can admire the mountain scenery while someone else drives,” which makes it a relaxing way to take in the sights without stress.

Arrival at Termas de Papallacta

Once at the thermal resort, you’ll find yourself amid spectacular mountain forests on the slopes of the Eastern Andes. The lush setting alone makes this a memorable spot. The resort is renowned for its hot springs, which are considered some of the best in the area.

Here, you have the option to take a short hike along a trail that winds through the property. As one guest put it, “Our guide took us on a wonderful hike and pointed out flora, fauna, and wildlife.” It’s a gentle walk, around 45 minutes, perfect for stretching your legs after the drive.

Relaxing in the Thermal Pools

After the hike, the main attraction begins: soaking in the warm thermal pools. The water temperatures are just right for relaxation, and the pools are remarkably well-maintained, with facilities such as changing rooms and showers.

Several reviews mention how clean and well-equipped the pools are, with one saying, “The pools are fantastic and relaxing.” You can also opt for health and beauty treatments if you wish, although these are extra and not included in the base price.

Optional Spa Treatments and Additional Costs

The tour allows you to enjoy the spa and pools at your leisure, with optional treatments available at additional costs — typically around $25 per person. You might find that a massage or beauty treatment adds a luxurious touch to your day, but even without extras, the pools alone provide ample relaxation.

Lunch and Entrance Fees

Lunch isn’t included, but there are options for purchasing food at the site. Entrance fees are also paid separately, usually around $25, or they can be paid directly at the resort. This flexibility ensures you only pay for what you want to do, which is appreciated by many travelers.

Personalized Service and Flexibility

What really shines about this experience is the private nature. You won’t be part of a large group, and you can tailor your schedule, whether that means spending more time in the pools, taking an extra hike, or simply relaxing at your own pace.

Guests consistently praise their guides for being knowledgeable and attentive. One reviewer commented, “Our guide gave us lots of information about Ecuador and answered all our questions,” making the experience more enriching.

Comfort and Convenience

The hotel pickup and drop-off are included, removing the stress of finding a meeting point. One guest appreciated this, noting that it made the day more relaxing. The vehicle is described as comfortable and clean, which makes the long drive more enjoyable.

Authenticity and Natural Beauty

The combination of mountain landscapes, wildlife sightings, and volcanic views makes this trip a genuine nature immersion. Many reviews highlight the stunning scenery, with some guests lucky enough to catch views of volcanoes normally obscured by clouds.

One traveler summed it up as “fabulous day with perfect weather,” and another said, “this is the best thermal pools we have visited worldwide,” which speaks to the quality of the experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for those who want a flexible, relaxing day out that combines outdoor activity with wellness. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate the personal attention of a private guide and are comfortable with a moderate amount of walking or hiking. If you value scenic drives and mountain vistas, this tour offers plenty of both.

It’s also well-suited to those who want a stress-free experience—hotel pickup and private transportation remove logistical worries. And if you’re interested in well-maintained thermal pools and optional spa treatments, this trip delivers on those fronts.

The Sum Up

The Papallacta Thermal Pools Private Day Trip offers a well-rounded escape into Ecuador’s mountains, blending relaxation, light adventure, and cultural appreciation. With private transport, an attentive guide, and the chance to customize your experience, it stands out as a flexible, high-value option for those seeking natural beauty without sacrificing comfort.

For travelers who want a personalized, scenic, and rejuvenating day outside Quito, this trip ticks all the boxes. Whether you’re looking to soak away travel fatigue, enjoy a short hike, or simply delight in mountain vistas, you’ll find this experience both satisfying and memorable.

While weather can sometimes obscure the views, the warm pools and lush surroundings make up for it. The flexibility and quality of service make it a top choice for those wanting to experience Ecuador’s natural wonders at their own pace.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, the tour involves a short hike that’s about 45 minutes, which is gentle enough for most travelers. You can choose how much you want to walk or relax at the pools.

Does the tour include transportation from my hotel?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it very convenient. You won’t need to worry about finding a meeting point.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you have the flexibility to decide how much time to spend at each stop, whether that means longer in the pools or more hiking.

What is the cost of entrance and spa treatments?
Entrance fees are around $25, payable directly or pre-paid, and spa treatments cost about $25 per person if you choose to indulge.

How long is the drive from Quito?
The drive takes approximately 2 hours each way, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes for hiking, swimwear for the pools, sunscreen, and a water bottle. The tour provides a bottle of water.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but always check with the provider if traveling with very young children or those with mobility issues.

Is this tour available year-round?
Yes, it runs year-round, weather permitting. The best days are clear, but even in foggy conditions, the experience can be different but still enjoyable.