PARTNER CONTENT FOR TERMAS DE PAPALLACTA
Termas de Papallacta ECUADOR
The forest trail just behind Termas de Papallacta’s gently weaves its way in and out of the trees. It’s a path that is likely to illicit whispers of absolute awe from all who walk it. In this area, the chances of spotting a very famous spectacled bear are highest. An endangered species, and the only bear to be found in South America, these beautiful creatures were the inspiration for the world renowned fictional character from children’s literature, Paddington Bear. That’s part of the magic of Papallacta: you might come for the resort’s hot springs, but soon find yourself amid an inspiring natural adventure. Located a short drive to the east of Ecuador’s
capital, Quito, and even closer to its international airport, Papallacta is uniquely placed. It’s surrounded by contrasting natural worlds, at once Andean and tropical. Hikes take you into bird-rich polylepis tree forests, waterfalls, rivers and dramatic scenery. Further afield, you can encounter high-altitude flora and fauna, and hulking snow-capped volcanoes, while to the
east, the cloudforests of the Andes’ eastern flanks soon give way to the lumbering brown rivers and stunning wildlife of the Amazon basin. The resort itself offers poolside relaxation,
with well-appointed facilities and, of course, hot springs, which are the reason behind it all. The Gorillas in the Mist-style jungle backdrop creates the perfect setting for some well- deserved pampering between explorations of the surrounding peaks, hills and valleys. Contrary to hot springs elsewhere, Termas’
pools are virtually odourless and completely transparent. The resort’s comfortable and cosy cabins are set around an array of pools of varying temperatures. Guests can try them all, with the occasional dip into the ice pool to get the circulation pumping. The resort and its spa treatments can be visited
as a day trip. But really, it’s best to spend at least a night or two at the resort, since there’s an undeniable pleasure to be enjoyed as you soak in a steaming pool while gazing up at the stars in the chilly Andean night.
Don’t miss Soaking in healing thermal springs while taking in the sweeping views of the Andes’ snow-capped volcanoes
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KEY FACILITIES • Spa • Restaurant • Hotel • Walking trails
Get in touch
termaspapallacta.com
T: +593 2 256 8989 E:
termasuio@termaspapallacta.com
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