Banos

Leaving Laguna Quilotoa, we traveled southeast several hours to the town of Banos de Agua Santa (literally translating to "Holy Water Baths".) Losing over 6,000 feet in elevation we entered what is called 'the Gateway of the Amazon.' Banos is a lovely resort town nestled in the heart of Ecuador. It sits in the shadow of Volcan Tungurahua, a fairly young and temperamental volcano that provides the town with thermally heated, mineral rich therapeutic waters for soaking in. While in Banos, we stayed at the Hostal Posada del Arte. This beautiful hostel is owned by an American ex-pat family from Chicago and is decorated with colorful art from throughout the region. While in the area we enjoyed visiting dozens of waterfalls, touring the church in the main plaza, dining on delicious food, and soaking our sore muscles in the volcanically heated pools. We had a thrill of a lifetime when we visited Casa del Arbol. A rope swing attached to an old tree (they call it "the swing at the end of the world") sends the rider sailing high over a steep mountain side in the Andes. It is a nearly vertical drop off, so riding the swing is a real adrenaline rush! We enjoyed ourselves and a beautiful sunset. It rounded out a great visit to Banos. Can't wait for the next adventure!