Papallacta hot springs and hiking in the forest in Quito, Ecuador
Quito, Ecuador

Papallacta hot springs and hiking in the forest

Outty Ranking 62 5.0 · 7 traveler reviews3.8 hoursFrom $89
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Outty Ranking

62/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 7 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Papallacta hot springs and hiking in the forest worth booking?

Papallacta hot springs and hiking in the forest is a 3.8-hour experience in Quito, Ecuador, from $89 per person. It scores 62 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 7 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
62 / 100
Rating
5/5 (7)
Duration
3.8 hours
From
$89 per person

Papallacta Hot Springs, a paradise where you will live a relaxing and unique experience. The Papallacta hot springs have medicinal and healing properties that are good for muscles, joints, skin and hair due to the minerals they contain, such as: sulfur salts, iron, magnesium, etc. The heat of these waters comes from an active volcano called Chacana. Likewise, you can enter the cloud forest walking along a path near a river where you will find waterfalls, unique vegetation and wonderful landscapes, you will take beautiful memories and excellent photographs.

What you get

    About this experience

    Papallacta Hot Springs, a paradise where you will live a relaxing and unique experience. The Papallacta hot springs have medicinal and healing properties that are good for muscles, joints, skin and hair due to the minerals they contain, such as: sulfur salts, iron, magnesium, etc. The heat of these waters comes from an active volcano called Chacana. Likewise, you can enter the cloud forest walking along a path near a river where you will find waterfalls, unique vegetation and wonderful landscapes, you will take beautiful memories and excellent photographs.

    What's included

    Included

    • Private transportation
    • Tickets to thermal pools
    • Guidance
    • All Fees and Taxes

    Not included

    • Lunch
    • VIP Pools (+ 14USD)

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 90 minutes before departure.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en, es
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Mon, Wed, Thu
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Alejandro Nunez

    Know before you go

    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Papallacta hot springs and hiking in the forest in Quito, photo 2Papallacta hot springs and hiking in the forest in Quito, photo 3Papallacta hot springs and hiking in the forest in Quito, photo 4Papallacta hot springs and hiking in the forest in Quito, photo 5Papallacta hot springs and hiking in the forest in Quito, photo 6

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 7 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    3 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Physical effort

    3 mentions

    Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

    Photo opportunities

    2 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Traveler reviews

    7 verified traveler reviews for Papallacta hot springs and hiking in the forest. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    7
    4 star
    0
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    0
    Sort
    elifA6957CQ · October 2026

    Tour to Papallacta

    It was incredible, the guide was very attentive, kind and resolved every question about the place.

    via Tripadvisor (translated)

    M7016ZWbrunap · October 2026

    Incredible!

    It was incredible. I really liked the experience!!!

    via Tripadvisor (translated)

    yohannam291 · October 2026

    Very beautiful

    Alejandro is the best guide, super attentive and kind at all times. Highly recommended tour

    via Tripadvisor (translated)

    Freedom29862734186 · October 2026

    Perfect plan nearby Quito city

    A beautiful, easy, and super relaxing tour. The place is beautiful. The nature and getting to this magic place in such a short time was the hit! The walk through the forest combined with relaxing in the hot springs was completely worth it, and the views were incredible! Our guide made everything seamless he explained everything and ensured we had everything we needed. This truly made this an unforgettable experience. Would definitely do it again!

    via Tripadvisor

    Megan_E · April 2026

    Beautiful experience! The...

    Beautiful experience! The drive out there has all the views while Alejandro explains all the things you need to know about the area and what you are seeing. The hike is easy, and peaceful. You might even be able to see the glacial top of the active volcano nearby. The hot springs themselves had everything you could need, and felt amazing. I very much needed a nap afterwards it was so relaxing! Very happy with this tour!

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    3.8 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Mon, Wed, Thu
    Price range
    $89 to $129
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    2
    Verdict
    Solid Choice

    Why this scores 62

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)93
    Review evidence (18% weight)37
    Booking momentum (14% weight)24
    Value for money (12% weight)37
    Listing quality (10% weight)76
    Local standing (8% weight)54
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Papallacta hot springs and hiking in the forest: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Quito.

    How much does Papallacta hot springs and hiking in the forest cost?

    +

    Prices start at $89 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Quito usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Papallacta hot springs and hiking in the forest take?

    +

    Plan for about 3.8 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Quito is not rushed.

    Is Papallacta hot springs and hiking in the forest worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 62 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 7 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Quito, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Papallacta hot springs and hiking in the forest?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Papallacta hot springs and hiking in the forest suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3.8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Papallacta hot springs and hiking in the forest?

    +

    Around 2 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Quito can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Quito and add a light layer if any part of the 3.8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Papallacta hot springs and hiking in the forest start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Quito within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Quito?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Quito experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Cotopaxi Volcano full day tour with all the entrances, every day, Cotopaxi tour from Quito -horseback ride and hike-NO TOURISTY way, Baños Full Day Tour from Quito Including Entrances and Activities. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Quito?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Quito?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Papallacta hot springs and hiking in the forest?

    +

    Included: Private transportation; Tickets to thermal pools; Guidance; and All Fees and Taxes. Not included: Lunch; and VIP Pools (+ 14USD). Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Papallacta hot springs and hiking in the forest include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 169 listed pickup locations in and around Quito. Be ready about 90 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is Papallacta hot springs and hiking in the forest offered in?

    +

    It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Papallacta hot springs and hiking in the forest?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Papallacta hot springs and hiking in the forest wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Papallacta hot springs and hiking in the forest if the weather is bad?

    +

    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Quito. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about Papallacta hot springs and hiking in the forest?

    +

    Across 7 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Papallacta hot springs and hiking in the forest.

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