MileHacker Logo
Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

Central Highlands, Ecuador

Accommodation Types in Baños

Accommodation Spectrum

  • Hostels

    These are a favored choice for backpackers, solo travelers, and budget-conscious groups. Hostels in Baños provide dorm beds (mixed or single-gender) and often communal areas, shared kitchens, and tour booking assistance, fostering a social atmosphere.

  • Guesthouses (Hostales/Hospedajes)

    Typically family-run establishments, guesthouses offer simple, clean private rooms. They vary in amenities; some might have private bathrooms, while others share facilities. They generally provide a more local and personal experience.

  • Mid-range Hotels

    These properties offer more comfort and amenities, including private bathrooms, sometimes a swimming pool, an on-site restaurant, or spa services. They offer a good balance between comfort and value.

  • Boutique Hotels

    Often characterized by unique design, personalized service, and a focus on aesthetics or a specific theme. Boutique hotels in Baños may offer higher-end amenities and a more intimate atmosphere.

Diverse Stay Experiences

  • Luxury Hotels/Lodges

    For travelers seeking indulgence, Baños offers high-end hotels and lodges, some situated just outside the main town. These properties extensive facilities like full-service spas, gourmet restaurants, multiple pools, and often boast stunning panoramic views of the town or volcano.

  • Eco-lodges and Hacienda Stays

    While not numerous within the immediate town center, some eco-lodges or renovated haciendas can be found in the outskirts or surrounding hills. These properties a more secluded experience, immersed in nature, often with a focus on sustainability and local culture.

  • Vacation Rentals

    Options for vacation rentals, like apartments or entire houses, are available on platforms like Airbnb. They can be a good choice for longer stays, families, or groups, offering kitchen facilities and a more home-like environment.

  • Camping and Outdoor Accommodation

    Designated public campsites are limited. Some adventure tour operators might offer camping as part of multi-day trekking or outdoor adventure packages. Free or informal camping is generally not recommended due to safety and environmental considerations.

Neighborhood Guide

Baños is a relatively small town, so most areas are within easy reach of the center. Your choice of neighborhood often comes down to balancing vibrancy with tranquility.

City Center

Pros
  • Everything is within easy walking distance.
  • Immediate access to dining, shopping, and tour departures.
  • Public buses and taxis are readily available.
  • Center of the town's lively atmosphere.
Cons
  • Can be noisy, especially on weekends and during festivals.
  • Bars, restaurants, and street activity contribute to noise.
  • If you prefer quiet, this area might not be ideal.
  • Can be very busy with tourists.

Area Near Bus Terminal

Pros
  • Convenient for bus travel to and from Baños.
  • Accommodation options often slightly cheaper.
  • Slightly less touristy than immediate city center.
  • Offers a more local feel.
Cons
  • Can still experience noise from bus traffic.
  • General urban activity can be present.
  • Less charming than other areas.
  • Limited specific attractions.

Outskirts/Hills

Pros
  • Serenity, peace, and often stunning panoramic views.
  • You feel more connected to nature.
  • Home to eco-lodges, boutique hotels, and luxury resorts.
  • Tranquil and secluded environment.
Cons
  • Requires transportation (taxi or local bus) to town.
  • Dining options within these areas are limited.
  • Often restricted to your hotel's restaurant.
  • Can feel isolated from the main town.

Important Considerations

Safety

All areas are generally considered safe for tourists. Standard precautions against petty theft apply, especially in crowded central areas. Avoid displaying large amounts of cash or expensive items. When walking alone at night, stick to well-lit and populated streets.

Proximity & Noise

City Center offers excellent proximity to almost everything. Outskirts provide access to specific attractions but require transport to town. City Center can be lively and noisy; Outskirts are generally quiet and peaceful.

Booking Strategies

Smart booking strategies help secure preferred accommodation and potentially save money.

Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (June-September, December-January, Easter Week): Book accommodation a few weeks to several months in advance. Popular hostels, mid-range hotels, and unique properties fill quickly.
  • Shoulder/Low Season (October-November, February-March, May): Good deals and better availability. Booking a few days to a week ahead is advisable for specific preferences. Walk-in availability is more likely.
  • Deposit and Cancellation: Policies vary widely. Read specific deposit requirements and cancellation terms carefully. Hostels often have stricter non-refundable deposit policies for dorm beds. Some smaller establishments might request a direct bank transfer or PayPal deposit.
  • Seasonal Prices: Accommodation prices are highest during high seasons and major public holidays. They tend to be lower during the wet season (October-May) and lowest during the absolute low season (e.g., May).

Trusted Platforms

  • International Platforms: Booking.com, Expedia, and Agoda widely used for hotels and guesthouses. Hostelworld for hostels. Airbnb for vacation rentals.
  • Direct Booking: Many local hotels and hostels have their own websites or active presences on social media. Contacting them directly for reservations can sometimes result in better rates or secure specific rooms.
  • Negotiation: Negotiation for walk-in rates generally not common at established hotels. At smaller, very basic guesthouses, especially during low season or for longer stays, a slight negotiation might be possible. Politely inquire, but expect firm prices.
  • Remember: Always check recent reviews and current availability before booking.

Booking Insights

Online vs. Walk-in
  • Online platforms convenience and a wide range of options, often with reviews.
  • Walk-ins provide a chance to inspect rooms before committing, especially useful for budget stays.
  • Compare rates between online and direct booking channels.
  • Consider booking online during high season.
Payment Methods
  • Most hotels accept credit cards, but smaller guesthouses or hostels may prefer cash.
  • Always confirm payment options when booking or arriving.
  • Keep local currency (USD) handy for smaller establishments.
  • Some places might request a deposit via digital payment.

Final Tips

Check Reviews

Always read recent reviews on multiple platforms before booking any accommodation to ensure it meets your expectations and current standards. Look for comments on cleanliness, noise, and amenities.

Contact Directly

If you have specific needs or questions, directly contacting the property via email or phone can provide clarity and a better experience. Confirm special requests or inquire about transportation.

Local Insights

Ask locals or your tour operator for accommodation recommendations. They might know about new, well-regarded places or special deals not widely advertised online.

Accommodation Recommendations

General recommendations for Baños, categorized by budget and traveler type. Always check recent reviews and current availability before booking.

Budget & Mid-range Stays

Hostels & Basic Hostales

Popular, social atmosphere, good for meeting others. Offers dorms and private rooms, often with communal areas or kitchens.

  • Community Hostel Baños
  • Hostal Santa Cruz
  • Erupcion Art Hotel & Hostel
  • Other basic Hostales
Guesthouses & 3-star Hotels

Comfortable, often with pleasant gardens or courtyards. Provide private rooms with private bathrooms, sometimes including breakfast.

  • Hotel Plantas y Blancas
  • Hotel Donde Darquea
  • La Posada del Arte
  • Various comfortable hotels

Luxury & Specialized Stays

Boutique Hotels & Higher-end Lodges

Extensive amenities, including pools, spas, gourmet dining options, and often impressive views. Many are located slightly outside the town center for greater tranquility.

Family Stays

Look for hotels offering spacious family or interconnected rooms. Properties with swimming pools or play areas. Quieter outskirts better for young children.

  • Luna Runtun (Luxury)
  • Samari Spa Resort (Luxury)
  • Mid-range hotels with family rooms
  • Vacation rentals for space

Solo Traveler Focus

  • Hostels

    Excellent choice due to their social atmosphere. Easy to meet other travelers and join group activities or tours.

  • Erupcion Art Hotel & Hostel

    Popular choice for solo adventurers looking to connect with others.

  • Community Hostel Baños

    Another noteworthy option for a social scene.

  • Tour Operators

    Many cater to individuals joining group adventures, making it simple to participate.

Long-Stay & Cultural Stays

  • Apartments (Airbnb)

    Consider renting if staying several weeks or months. Offers kitchen access and a home-like environment.

  • Guesthouses (negotiate)

    Inquire directly about weekly or monthly rates. Rates often negotiable for longer durations, offering significant savings.

  • Kitchen Access
  • Properties with significance

    Some older guesthouses or renovated buildings in the central area may possess historical charm and traditional Ecuadorian architectural elements.

Important Considerations

Check Reviews

Always read recent reviews on multiple platforms before booking any accommodation to ensure it meets your expectations and current standards.

  • Look for comments on cleanliness.
  • Check for noise levels mentioned.
  • Verify amenity availability.
  • Assess location suitability.
Contact Directly

If you have specific needs or questions, directly contacting the property via email or phone can provide clarity and a better experience.

  • Confirm special requests.
  • Inquire about transportation.
  • Ask about early check-in/late check-out.
  • Verify local activities.

Considerations for Your Stay

Comfort

Choose a comfortable place to stay. Baños options from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious spa resorts.

Location

Decide if you prefer the bustling town center or the tranquil outskirts. Each location has its own ambiance and access to activities.

Amenities

Prioritize amenities important to you, whether it's a social atmosphere, a pool, a kitchen, or stunning views of the volcano and valley.