Papallacta Thermas & Roses Farm

Located over 10.000 feet above sea level in a temperate mountain forest, Papallacta Thermal Springs Resort is just two hours away from Quito. Nestled high in the Andean Cordillera at the entrance to the Amazonian Jungle, Papallacta features several hot thermal spring pools of different sizes and temperatures.

Resort facilities include a first-class hotel and a restaurant offering local and international cuisine with its main specialty: fresh trout. Depart Quito at 8:00 in the morning for Papallacta pass traveling on the cinnamon trail, the route the Spanish conquistador Francisco de Orellana took in 1542, when he crossed the Andean mountain range in search of spices and gold, only to discover the Amazon River.

Upon arrival and a refreshing snack and fresh juices, we invite you to visit the interpretation center and then discover your adventurous spirit through a nature walk on marked paths alongside pristine mountain streams, observing the flora and fauna of the humid Andean forest of the Canyon Ranch, one of the entrances to the Ecological Reserve Cayambe-Coca. After this pleasant walk, you feast on a delicious lunch featuring fresh trout from their own trout farm.

In the afternoon relax and soak away life’s aches and pains. At Papallacta you will begin to feel the beneficial effects of the life-giving, diaphanous air which originates in a singular meeting of the Amazonian winds with the rocks, forests and water of the high Andean mountains. At the hot thermal spring pools experience the notable, restorative effects of the crystalline thermal waters (sulfate alkaline terreous). Submerge yourself in the warm water and take advantage of its curative properties in rheumatic, arthritic, digestive and respiratory processes. The water is odorless, crystalline and ever changing. Return to Quito in late afternoon.