Papallacta is the place Quitenos go when they want warm water and cool mountain air. The village sits in a valley east of the capital, beyond a high pass on the road toward the Amazon basin, and the springs here are fed by the volcanic system beneath the Andes, so the water emerges hot and rich in minerals. Several complexes in and around the village have built pools at different temperatures, from pleasantly warm to very hot, set among grassy slopes, waterfalls and patches of cloud forest. Some have changing rooms, restaurants and cabins for overnight stays, while others are simpler. On a clear morning you can see the snowy bulk of a nearby volcano above the pools, and the combination of hot water and cold air is oddly addictive. Most visitors come on a full-day trip from Quito, either on a shared tour or with a private driver, and many add a viewpoint or a stop at a trout restaurant along the way. It is one of the most relaxing outings in the region and a very good counterpart to the busy city and volcano days that fill most itineraries.
Why it works
After days of walking steep streets and adjusting to altitude, warm mineral water is welcome. The setting is part of the appeal, because you soak with grassy hills and cloud forest around you rather than inside a spa. The altitude is high, so the air is cool even in the sun and the contrast with the pools is a pleasure, particularly in the morning or late afternoon.
How the day works
A typical trip leaves Quito in the morning, climbs through the páramo to the high pass and descends to the village in around two hours, depending on traffic and weather. You spend a few hours moving between pools, with time for lunch, and return in the late afternoon.
The tour linked here is a full-day trip to the springs and the surrounding area, and the details of any extra stops depend on the operator. Some visitors prefer to stay overnight at one of the lodges near the pools, which lets you soak at dawn or after dark and avoid the day crowds.
Practicalities
Bring a swimsuit, a towel if your tour does not provide one, sandals and a change of clothes, plus a warm layer and a rain jacket for the walk between pools. Hot water at altitude can make some people light-headed, so drink water, alternate between pools and get out if you feel unwell. If you have a heart condition or are pregnant, ask a doctor before long soaks in very hot pools.
Good to know
Weekends and holidays are busiest, as the springs are popular with families from Quito, and midweek visits are quieter. Entry fees and facilities vary between complexes, and some are more developed than others, so ask what your tour includes. The road can be foggy and wet, which is why most people let a driver handle it.
Making the most of it
Arrive early to claim a comfortable spot, take a bottle of water to each pool and keep your phone in a dry bag. Trout restaurants in the village are a popular lunch choice, and walking trails in the surrounding reserve offer a gentle way to stretch your legs between soaks if the weather is dry.
What to expect
The experience
A full-day trip from Quito to thermal pools in a mountain valley, with time to soak, eat lunch and enjoy the scenery.
Best time
Midweek mornings are quietest. Clear days give the best views of the surrounding volcanoes and valley.
How long
A full day, with roughly two hours of driving each way and several hours at the springs.
Tips
Bring swimwear, a towel, sandals and warm dry clothes. Drink water, alternate pools and leave any pool that feels too hot.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who wants to unwind after a busy stretch of sightseeing and altitude.
- Families
- Pools at gentler temperatures suit children, but keep time in the hottest pools short and watch the little ones near the edges.
- Couples
- A slow day of soaking with mountain views, followed by an easy lunch, is a relaxing change of pace.
- Pair with
- Cotopaxi on another day for the volcano views, or a gentle first day in the old town before you head up.
- Time needed
- A full day, or an overnight stay if you want to soak at dawn.
Good questions
How far is Papallacta from Quito?+
The village is roughly two hours by road to the east, depending on traffic and weather. The route climbs over a high pass before dropping into the valley.
What should I bring?+
A swimsuit, a towel if one is not provided, sandals, a change of clothes, a warm layer and a rain jacket. Weather in the valley is cool and changeable.
Is it suitable for children?+
Generally yes, since pools vary in temperature, but very hot pools are not for small children and everyone should take breaks and drink water.
Can I stay overnight?+
Several lodges and cabins operate near the pools, which makes it possible to soak early or late and avoid the busiest hours. Book ahead for weekends.
When is it busiest?+
Weekends and holidays, when families from the capital come for the day. Weekdays are calmer.
