Hiring a private driver to Baños is a fantastic adventure. Most travelers have a better experience riding from Quito to Baños.
Quito is a city with admirable colonial architecture. Our tour began in the historic center to visit the most beautiful churches. We visited the peaceful Plaza de la Independencia, then the Cathedral, and we could not miss the Church of the Company of Jesus. Certainly, an admirable church covered with fine gold leaf. Without a doubt, we were amazed by its art and beauty.
The reasons that most of the travelers visit Mitad del Mundo on the way from Quito to Baños
Later, we headed to the Intiñan Museum located in the Middle of the World. In fact, a unique place to learn about the history of Ecuador, traditions and indigenous customs, both from the Andes and the Amazon. Likewise, we were able to learn how such ancient cultures determined the exact location of the center of the Earth. In addition, we discovered other fun activities such as standing in the middle of the line with one foot in the northern hemisphere and the other in the southern hemisphere.
Also, we can take part in several gravity experiments, and learn that water swirling down a drain counterclockwise below the equator is a myth. Finally, we had a challenging activity which was balancing a raw egg on top of a nail. You would not think it is difficult, but it is! I accomplished this and received a certificate for balancing an egg at the Latitude 00’00’00”.
On the other hand, the guide showed us how the Sundial works. That is, it works by means of sunlight and has two faces, representing the northern and southern hemispheres. A metallic index, projects the shadow of the sun. This shows the time with good accuracy. That is to say, it is possible to compare the time of the sundial with a conventional clock. Certainly, it was a very pleasant experience.
Visit Quilotoa with your private driver on the way from Quito to Baños
On day 2 our private driver headed us from Quito to Baños. He drove us through the Avenue of the Volcanoes towards the mysterious Quilotoa Lagoon. Further, during the tour, we could see some volcanoes such as; Antisana, Pasochoa, Cotopaxi, Illinizas. After a long, but exciting journey we arrived at Quilotoa. However, this amazing place does not cease to captivate all nature lovers.
Because in its crater has formed a caldera with a diameter of almost 9 km. Apparently, there was a collapse of the volcano, which occurred about 800 years ago. According to studies, the volcanic flow managed to reach the Pacific Ocean.
In the 250 m deep caldera, there is a lagoon. Undoubtedly, minerals abound in the water, giving the surface a greenish and bluish tone when it receives the impact of light.
Why is Baños in Ecuador so famous?
After a tour of the surroundings of the Quilotoa Lagoon, we left for Baños. Certainly, It is an incredible area to enjoy extreme sports and also a place for rest and relaxation.
Even though the city is not very attractive, it has incredible views of the volcano, spectacular waterfalls and splendid places to visit. Most importantly, Baños is the gateway to the Amazon.
On day 3 we began our adventure by traveling the Waterfall Route. Our first stop was to admire the Agoyan Hydroelectric Dam. Then, we continue to the waterfall of the same name, very close is located the waterfall of Manto de la Novia to finally reach the waterfall of Pailon del Diablo. Certainly, this waterfall has a hair-raising fall of 80 meters.
Towards the side, there are stairs that lead to the interior of the waterfall. From here, you can observe the contrast of nature. After returning from this exceptional adventure, we headed to the viewpoint of the Tungurahua Volcano. A privileged place for the impressive view of the city of Baños and the volcano. Finally, we stopped at Luna Runtún to enjoy an exquisite hot chocolate at the Luna Volcán cafeteria. Undoubtedly a magnificent place, with a sensational view of the city of Baños.
Discover this spectacular adventure by hiring a private driver who will undoubtedly make you spend unforgettable moments!
Wonderful experience from beginning to end, I can truly say I experienced Ecuador the way it was meant to be experienced. Fun, informative and just an overall a flawless experience, thank you and cannot wait for the next adventure!
Thank you Marvin and guys. It was a memorable and fantastic experience. It was not just a trip to see places, but an adventure among friends. The girls were very sweet and funny, and you were very kind and eager to live and enjoy this incredible experience in Ecuador. Thank you for trusting and hiring my services. I really hope to see you again and enjoy another adventure.