| Known as the 'Gateway to the Amazon', Banos in | | | | may see it being made or pulled by beating the |
| Ecuador is one of the most popular destinations in | | | | candy against a door frame or other sturdy surface. |
| the country, and it's not hard to see why. Tourists, | | | | The town market is also overflowing with local |
| volcanologists, religious pilgrims and a whole host of | | | | produce, so for cheap food that's about as organic |
| other characters are drawn to Banos for a variety of | | | | as you'll ever get as you wander the maze of stalls. |
| reasons, probably one of the five listed below. | | | | 4) They explore a volcano |
| 1) They want to enjoy a spot of culture | | | | Banos was evacuated in October 1999 for several |
| Banos is famous for its magnificent Basilica, the | | | | weeks, thanks to the highly active Tungurahua |
| Church of the Virgin of the Holy Water. Pilgrimages | | | | volcano. Known as 'The Black Giant', the volcano is |
| are frequently made to thank the Virgin for the | | | | the largest in Ecuador, but easy to climb. There are |
| many miracles that she is said to have performed | | | | periodic drills to keep visitors and residents aware of |
| and for blessings. The Virgin gets her own festival in | | | | potential risks, so you shouldn't run into any trouble. |
| October, a combination of religious processions, | | | | To get up close to the majesty of Tungurahua, |
| music, dances and ear-splitting fireworks. If festivals | | | | arrange a tour of the 400 metre diameter crater. |
| are your thing, you'd do well to arrive in town on | | | | 5) They take a thermal bath |
| December 15th, when the anniversary of the town is | | | | Banos didn't get its name for nothing; any visitors to |
| celebrated. Each neighbourhood hires a band, and wild | | | | the town would be missing the point somewhat |
| dancing in the street ensures. | | | | without dipping into one of the many hydrothermal |
| 2) They go in search of outdoor antics and | | | | mineral springs that pop up everywhere. There are |
| thrill-seeking | | | | numerous spas around town, and they are an ideal |
| Banos has something for everyone, from bike rides | | | | way to ease aching muscles after a day on a bike |
| cruising through spectacular scenery, to horse riding | | | | saddle or hiking through the surrounding hills. |
| to bungee jumping off bridges. Those wanting to use | | | | Temperatures vary from scorching hot to cool, |
| pedal power can ride the 60km to Puyo on the | | | | depending on the amount of cold water mixed into |
| recently paved road, dropping from 6000ft in the | | | | the bath's water supply. Enjoy the thermal springs in |
| Ecuadorian high jungle down into the rain forest basin. | | | | town at Banos de la Virgen near Hotel Sangay, and |
| You will pass waterfalls and stunning vistas before | | | | Santa Clara baths which boast a sauna and a gym. |
| shooting through dark tunnels cut into the rock and | | | | Other options are El Salado, Santa Ana, and Eduardo's |
| out the other side, stopping off with fruit vendors to | | | | baths near town. |
| load up on vitamins for the rest of the journey. | | | | From active volcanoes to gentle walks, adrenaline |
| 3) They flex their shopping muscles | | | | fuelled rafting trips to soaking in warm mineral-rich |
| Banos is home to some wonderful markets and | | | | waters, you'll find something in Banos to suit you. A |
| shops where you can find some high quality crafts, | | | | good option is to get in contact with a regionally |
| handiwork and silver jewelry at very low prices. For | | | | based tour operator that can help you make the |
| those wanting to satisfy their sweet tooth, you can | | | | most of your trip; chances are you won't have |
| try out the local sugar cane taffy 'Melcocha'. You | | | | enough time to enjoy all that the town has to offer! |