El Salado Thermal Baths Baños
Relax in natural hot springs surrounded by mountains, offering a tranquil escape with varied temperatures just minutes from Baños.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxation
El Salado Thermal Baths Baños
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxation
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Relax in natural hot springs surrounded by mountains, offering a tranquil escape with varied temperatures just minutes from Baños.
"The perfect place to relax and enjoy the sunset in a natural hot pool."
Bring Your Swim Cap! 🏊♀️
A swim cap is mandatory for entry. You can buy one for $1 if you forget.
Explore All Temperatures 🌡️
Don't stick to one pool! Switch between hot and cooler waters for the best experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Varied Temperature Pools
Main bathing area
Soak in pools ranging from refreshingly cold to intensely hot mineral waters.
Natural Waterfall Shower
Near the cold pool
Experience a bracing natural shower under a small, invigorating waterfall.
Mountain Views
Throughout the facility
Enjoy the stunning natural scenery surrounding the baths, a perfect backdrop for relaxation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Natural Heat
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Your Swim Cap! 🏊♀️
A swim cap is mandatory for entry. You can buy one for $1 if you forget.
Explore All Temperatures 🌡️
Don't stick to one pool! Switch between hot and cooler waters for the best experience.
Cab Ride is Quick 🚕
Just a 5-minute cab ride from the city center, making it easily accessible.
Pack Essentials 🎒
Lockers, showers, and bathrooms are available, but bring your own towel and toiletries.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Your Swim Cap! 🏊♀️
A swim cap is mandatory for entry. You can buy one for $1 if you forget.
Explore All Temperatures 🌡️
Don't stick to one pool! Switch between hot and cooler waters for the best experience.
Cab Ride is Quick 🚕
Just a 5-minute cab ride from the city center, making it easily accessible.
Pack Essentials 🎒
Lockers, showers, and bathrooms are available, but bring your own towel and toiletries.
Enjoy the Scenery 🏞️
The natural setting is a huge part of the appeal; take time to appreciate the mountain views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
El Salado Thermal Baths are praised for their natural setting and varied temperature pools, offering a relaxing escape just minutes from Baños city center. Visitors appreciate the affordable entry fee and the opportunity to enjoy the mountain views. Some minor drawbacks include the possibility of not all pools being open and standard Ecuadorian sanitary conditions.
"The perfect place to relax and enjoy the sunset in a natural hot pool. Its located 5 min from the city center with a cab and it's worth it. There are significantly less people here and it feels right.
The place is clean and has a shop for all your needs. Entrance fee is $4 for adults and $2 for kids. There is 4 different pools with different water heat: cold, super hot, and between.
Very recommend"
Itay Alon
"I really loved this place! The hottest mineral pools in town confirmed by multiple unrelated people. I confirm because I visited 3 different baths in town. $4 entry. Very nice setting in between the Mountains."
Dennis Belichenko
"Good public pool. $4 per person entry and you need a swim cap ($1). There are different pools - some hot some cold. You can go into the river which is a nice refreshment. Has a locker service, showers and bathroom. Relaxed there for 2.5 hours."
Madeleine Gundersen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
El Salado Thermal Baths are conveniently located just a 5-minute taxi ride from the city center of Baños. This makes it a very accessible and quick trip for visitors.
While taxis are the most common and convenient way, local buses might also serve the route. It's best to inquire locally for the most up-to-date public transport information.
El Salado is located about 20 minutes from Baños city center, and Piscinas Rumi Yaku (which is near Pailón del Diablo) is about 4 minutes from Pailón del Diablo. So, it's not directly adjacent but accessible within the same general area.
While possible, it's a bit of a trek from the city center. A short taxi ride is generally recommended for comfort and speed.
The sign indicates hours from 5 am to 9 pm, with ticket sales ending at 8 pm. However, it's always a good idea to confirm current hours, especially on weekdays or holidays.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is typically $4 for adults and $2 for children.
Yes, a swim cap is mandatory for entry. You can purchase one onsite for approximately $1 if you don't have your own.
No, the single entrance fee covers access to all available thermal pools.
Advance booking is generally not required for individuals, but for groups of 15 or more, prior reservation might be necessary, especially on weekdays.
Information on specific discounts for students or seniors is not widely available, but the standard adult fee is quite affordable.
🎫 🏊♀️ Onsite Experience
El Salado features multiple pools with varying water temperatures, including cold, warm, and very hot mineral waters. This allows visitors to switch between them for a unique thermal experience.
While some pools are very hot, reviews suggest the water might not be as intensely hot as some other baths in town. However, it's still considered very warm and relaxing.
Yes, the facility provides changing rooms, showers, and locker services for visitors.
Yes, you can go into the river, which offers a nice, refreshing dip. There's also a small waterfall you can stand under for a cold shower.
Crowds can vary. Weekday evenings and early mornings tend to be less crowded, offering a more tranquil experience. Weekends and holidays may see more visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a shop onsite that sells various necessities, which may include snacks or drinks.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally advisable to check with the facility regarding outside food and beverage policies. Bringing snacks might be permissible.
El Salado is a short taxi ride from Baños city center, where you'll find a wide array of restaurants and cafes offering local and international cuisine.
Baños offers diverse dining options, from traditional Ecuadorian dishes like 'locro de papa' and 'hornado' to international flavors and vegetarian choices.
Yes, Baños is known for its affordable eateries. Look for 'almuerzos' (set lunches) which are typically very economical.
📸 📸 Photography
The natural mountain backdrop, the steam rising from the pools, and the waterfall area offer picturesque photo opportunities.
Photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of other visitors' privacy. Capturing the serene landscape is encouraged.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer beautiful lighting, especially during sunset, which is a highlight for many visitors.
Specific drone regulations are not mentioned, but it's always wise to check local rules and be respectful of the environment and other guests.
A waterproof phone case or a durable camera is recommended due to the humid environment. Wide-angle lenses can capture the expansive mountain views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's important to note that while the facility is generally clean, sanitary standards are described as 'Ecuadorian,' so parents should be aware of this. Bringing a swim cap is mandatory for everyone, including children, so ensure you have them or purchase them onsite. The proximity to the city center makes it an easy excursion, and the natural surroundings provide a pleasant environment for a family outing.
💰 Budget Travelers
When it comes to accommodation and dining in Baños, budget travelers will find plenty of options. Hostels and budget hotels offer rooms for as little as $10-$20 per night, and affordable local eateries serve delicious and inexpensive meals. This makes Baños, and El Salado specifically, a very accessible destination for those traveling on a shoestring.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thermal Experience at El Salado
While the facility is clean and has a shop for essentials, it's important to note that sanitary standards are described as 'Ecuadorian,' which might differ from international expectations. Despite this, the overall sentiment is positive, with many appreciating the natural setting and the variety of water temperatures. The inclusion of a cold pool and a refreshing waterfall shower adds to the unique experience, allowing visitors to invigorate themselves between hot soaks.
For those seeking a less crowded and more authentic experience, visiting during off-peak hours is highly recommended. The natural beauty surrounding the baths, with stunning mountain views, enhances the relaxation factor. It's a place where you can truly unwind and connect with nature, making it a worthwhile stop in Baños.
Budget-Friendly Stays in Baños
For those looking for a bit more comfort without breaking the bank, hotels with good breakfasts and central locations can be found starting around $20. Some all-inclusive packages are also available, offering accommodation, meals, and even tours for around $100 for a two-day trip, which can be excellent value for groups or families.
Beyond standard hotels, Baños also offers unique lodging experiences like lodges, Airbnbs, and glamping options, often nestled amidst the mountains with breathtaking views. These can range from luxurious to more rustic, providing diverse choices for travelers seeking a memorable stay. Hostal options are also plentiful, ensuring that every traveler can find a suitable place to rest after a day of adventure.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit