Banos City Guide

Offers local dishes like melcocha and cuy, plus Italian and American food. Vegetarian and vegan options are accessible. Some places and street vendors stay open late around the main square.

Nightlife is laid-back with bars and a few clubs near the main square. The scene focuses on socializing rather than big parties.

Decent coffee scene with many cafes serving local coffee. Few specialty shops but fresh beans available.

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. Restaurants may include 10% service charge; otherwise 5-10% is common. Tour guides usually get a small tip. Taxis generally not tipped.

SIM cards can be bought in larger cities or sometimes in Baños. Claro and Movistar have good coverage. Passport is needed for registration. eSIMs are limited.

Main tourist areas are generally clean, but standards vary in residential zones. Waste is regularly collected; recycling is limited.

Few 24/7 services. Some pharmacies and tiendas have late hours but not round-the-clock. Hospital is main emergency option.

Basic groceries and fresh local produce are available. Shop at supermarkets like Supermaxi and local tiendas. Markets sell fresh fruits and meats. Bargaining is common in markets but not in supermarkets.

Cards work in bigger hotels, restaurants, and tour agencies. Small shops and street vendors usually take cash only. Carry small US dollars for daily spending.

ATMs are in the town center near banks like Banco Pichincha. Expect international and local fees when withdrawing.

Local schools mainly teach in Spanish. No international schools in Baños. Nearby large cities offer international options.

Baños has a very small digital nomad scene with few meetups or coworking spaces. Nomads work mostly from cafes.

Baños offers excellent access to green spaces and parks, including riversides and mountain trails. Many shaded walking paths.

Good running routes along roads to waterfalls and river paths. Safe during the day with scenic views.

Local gyms with basic equipment for weightlifting and cardio.

Limited access, mainly at some hotels or private clubs. Equipment rentals and coaching are rare.

No padel courts available.

A few small yoga studios offer mainly Hatha and Vinyasa classes. Drop-in classes common, some English-speaking instructors.

Limited martial arts options, mostly basic boxing or self-defense classes at local gyms. No English-speaking instructors.

No skiing; tropical mountain climate.

Rafting is popular on the Pastaza River with guided tours and good equipment. Kayaking is available; paddleboarding less common. Best during dry season (June-Sept).

No surfing as Baños is inland.

No diving; Baños is inland.

Basic care is available at local clinics and Hospital Básico Baños. For serious cases, travel to Ambato or Quito. English speakers are rare. Pharmacies sell both prescription and over-the-counter meds.

Tap water is not safe to drink. Use bottled water or a filter.

Good for families with parks, playgrounds, and kid-friendly restaurants. Attractions like thermal baths and waterfalls are suitable for all ages.

Generally tolerant in tourist areas but Ecuador is conservative. No specific LGBTQ venues or groups in Baños.

Some pet-friendly accommodations and restaurants exist. Basic veterinary services available but no dedicated pet parks.