Baños de Agua Santa or "Baños" is a beautiful town located in the Tungurahua province, Ecuador. Baños means "springs" and Agua Santa means "holy water." This town possesses natural beauty, surrounded by lush vegetation, waterfalls, rapid rivers, and thermal springs. Hence its name, holy hot springs. The closest cities are Ambato and Riobamba. The movie Proof of Life was filmed in the Ecuadorian Andes, near this town. About the altitude, Baños has an elevation of 5,971 feet (1,820 meters) above sea level.
Tourists from all over the world visit Baños to see the Tungurahua volcano. This volcano is one of South America's most active ones. They also look for activities such as horseback riding, rafting, hiking, and paragliding. As well as biking, especially following the route of the waterfalls — Ruta de las Cascadas" in Spanish. — The road Banos-Puyo is famous because it has several waterfalls on the way. Bike rental cost $6 a day.
In the middle of Baños, next to a waterfall there are the "Termas de la Virgen". A simple complex of bath and pools, but very popular in the town. Another place to visit is "El Mirador de La Virgen" a viewpoint. Once at the top, you can see a panoramic view of the town and its surroundings. In fact, walking around Baños is a relaxing way to spend the day. Climate is comfortable and overcast. The temperature varies from 50°F to 69°F (10°C to 21°C)
