Papallacta is a small town located almost 11,000 feet in the Andes mountains, about an hour outside of Quito. It is known for its amazing thermal pools and hot springs. As part of our Gate 1 Ecuador tour, we stayed at Termas de Papallacta, a Hot Springs Spa and Resort. If you have based yourself in Quito, it is an easy day trip and should be part of any Ecuador itinerary.
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Termas de Papallacta
All guests at Termas de Papallacta have access to thermal pool steps from their rooms. All rooms have heated floors. There are traditional rooms offered, or, for larger families, family bungalows are also available. Visitors also have the option of booking a day package from Quito. There is a restaurant on site that services a variety of delicious options.
Spa Treatments at Termas de Papallacta
For an upgraded experience, guests can also book spa treatments at Termas de Papallacta, use the thermal steam cave, or buy a day pass to the spa pools. The package we booked included a 30-minute neck and back massage, use of the thermal steam cave, and access to the spa pools. It also included a locker, robe, and towels.
We first relaxed in the thermal steam cave. This was like a sauna but styled after a cave. There was also a waterfall that dripped down the side.
After relaxing in the thermal steam cave, we had a neck and back massage. I was taken to a quiet room with comfy loungers to relax before our massages. When it was my turn, the masseuse came to take me to a private room. The massages were very relaxing and were a nice way to unwind after a week of traveling.
Spa Pools
Finally, we ended up in the spa pools. The spa pools range from a series of temperatures and have various features. In total, there were 5 thermal pools with water jets and 1 polar pool. My favorite was one that had shower heads with hot water pouring out of them. We spent a little over an hour circulating through the pools.
The spa also has many showers to rinse off or take a full shower after relaxing in the pools.
The resort also has a restaurant, bar, and has several hiking trails. Our tour included a 3-course dinner with a drink and a bottle of water. The soup was the most delicious part.
I highly recommend this resort. It was a relaxing experience. If you have a long layover in Quito or have a day to spare, a trip to Termas de Papallacta is worth it!
