Travel Budget for Banos Visit Banos on a Budget or Travel in Style

Banos, Provincia del Tungurahua, Ecuador

Banos is a cultural destination known for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.

How much does it cost to travel to Banos?

You should plan to spend around $57 per day on your vacation in Banos. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $26 on meals
  • $10 on local transportation
  • $31 on hotels

A one week trip to Banos for two people costs, on average, $798. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $57
  • One Week Per person
    $399
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $798
  • One Month Per person
    $1,710
  • One Week For a couple
    $798
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $1,596
  • One Month For a couple
    $3,420
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Banos cost?

A one week trip to Banos usually costs around $399 for one person and $798 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Banos on average costs around $798 for one person and $1,596 for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Banos will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Banos on average costs around $1,710 for one person and $3,420 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Banos expensive to visit?

Banos is a smaller destination that attracts a range of visitors, each with distinct travel styles, spending habits, and budgetary requirements. You'll find a wide array of accommodation options, such as luxury hotels, mid-range places, or budget-friendly hostels.

Although Banos can be quite pricey if you let it be, you can cut costs by looking for discounts and coupons.

On average, budget travelers spend $26 per day, mid-range travelers spend $57 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $115 per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Banos.

Within South America, Banos is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Sucre or Manaus.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Banos Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Banos?

The average Banos trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Banos travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Banos cost?

Banos on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
$6.98 $16 $28
Local Transportation 1 $4.15 $10 $25
Food 2 $11 $26 $54
Entertainment 1 $7.33 $19 $48
Alcohol 2 $2-6 $5-15 $13-39

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. Many people think they can visit Banos on a tight budget, but most travelers aren't comfortable with a low "shoestring" budget. Think about what you enjoy during your vacations and how you typically travel. Do you prefer resorts, vacation rentals, or hostels? Do you want to visit museums, sights, and participate in activities? Is dining out a priority? These factors will shape both your budget and your itinerary.

What Defines a Budget Traveler?

You might think that you're a budget traveler. But unless you're willing to eliminate a lot of comforts from your trip, prepare to spend a lot more than the daily average of $26 that backpackers often get by on.

Young backpackers often get away with this shoestring budget, but it usually involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest restaurants or fast food places, taking public transit or walking, and only visiting free attractions.

Thankfully, Banos is filled with plenty of hostels, such as Great Hostels, Papachos Hostel, and Erupcion Art Hotel & Hostel. Staying in these hostels means you can enjoy low-cost dorm accommodation and a fun social atmosphere, although amenities may be basic.

So, are you average?

Couples and families on a fun trip will likely choose a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at popular dining spots, and visit significant museums and attractions that have entry fees. Most tourists in Banos are inclined to explore its main attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. After all, most activities are not free. So, it's realistic to expect your actual daily budget to be about $57 per person, per day.

Banos offers a diverse selection of hotels and vacation rentals. If you're traveling with companions, you can share a hotel room with a partner, friend, or your kids, making it easier on your wallet. Families should look for hotels and restaurants that are family-friendly. Jardines De Chamana is an excellent option for kids, and Aldea Real Eco Friendly is another fantastic choice. For more family and couple-friendly accommodations, check out our hotel guide for Banos here.

Dreaming of a Stylish Getaway?

If a complete vacation with all amenities and a higher level of service is what you want, expect to allocate around $115 per day. To stay in nicer hotels, dine at award-winning establishments, treat yourself to extravagant excursions, and hire taxis or private drivers to navigate the destination, a luxury budget will be necessary. Also, higher-end tours are common with luxury travelers, such as Half-Day Private Rock Climbing in Canton Baños - offered by Viator.

Accommodation Budget in Banos

The cost of hotels in Banos can be quite surprising. Luxury accommodations come with higher prices and more amenities, especially during peak season. Off-season rates average $47, but peak season () average prices jump to $88. Overall, prices range from $19 to $203. Hostels are often the cheaper option, especially in dorms. You can save by booking early, traveling in the off-season, or taking advantage of promotions.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Banos for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $31. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $16 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $16
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $31

Hotels in Banos

Looking for a hotel in Banos? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Banos

The average hotel room price in Banos based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $47 in the low season and $88 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

The most affordable highest rated hotels in Banos include:

  • Samari Spa Resort starting at $188
  • Luna Runtun Adventure Spa starting at $267
  • Hospedaje Higueron starting at $35
  • Jardines De Chamana starting at $80
  • Centro Ecoturistico Alpinar starting at $40
Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Banos

By avoiding the peak season and traveling in the low or shoulder seasons, you will be rewarded with lower accommodation prices and fewer crowds.


Recommended Properties


Transportation Budget in Banos

In Banos, the public transit system is not very good.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $10 per person, per day, on local transportation in Banos. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Banos is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $10



Flights to Banos
How much does it cost to go to Banos? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Banos
The price of renting a car in Banos will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.



Food Budget in Banos

Tasting the local cuisine is a key reason for travel, so be sure to sample the unique dishes offered in the area.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Banos can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Banos is $26 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $26

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Banos is around $26 ($26) per person, with previous travelers spending from $11 to $54. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Banos are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $3 to $8
  • Lunch: $4 to $11
  • Dinner: $8 to $18
  • Coffee: $2
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $4

Due to a steady influx of both domestic and foreign tourists, the modest town of Banos boasts a wide variety of great quality restaurants, from cheap local eats to elegant international cuisine. Stiff competition between venues ensures prices remain refreshingly low. Banos is an excellent place to dive into the cuisine of the Sierra regions of Ecuador, however it does require an adventurous stomach. Ecuadorians from all over the country enjoy eating cuy, which tastes like chicken, and is notoriously difficult to eat. Be prepared to eat with your hands and get a little messy, and expect a lot of work for very little reward. Popular dishes that are easier to eat include the Llapingachos, which consists of fried mashed potatoes called tortillas, chorizo, a fried egg, avocado, and salad or the Yaguarlocro, a tripe soup with avocado, onion, and dried blood.

Food & Dining Tips

Numerous hotels offer breakfast as part of the room rate, but some might charge extra for it. The cost and quality can differ from one hotel to another. Being aware of this beforehand can help you determine if you need to allocate additional funds. It could be worth it for a fantastic buffet at the hotel, or you might want to opt for a nearby bakery or cafe that's more budget-friendly.

Fill a water bottle rather than purchasing drinks constantly. It's a smart and eco-friendly choice.

If you're thinking about taking a tour, it's wise to check in advance which meals are covered. You may need to cover some of your own food costs, which could increase your overall budget.


What did other people spend on food and dining in Banos?

Listed below are typical food prices in Banos, based on the actual spending of previous travelers. These figures provide an estimate of what you might expect to pay for meals. However, your personal expenses will depend on your dining preferences, the restaurants you choose, and what you decide to order.


  • Dinner
    $13
  • Ice cream
    $1.50
  • Coffee
    $2.50


Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Banos

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Banos typically cost an average of $19 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $19

Visit La Iglesia Nuestra Senora del Agua Santa, a neo-Gothic style church named after the vision of the Virgin Mary seen near the appropriately named waterfalls, a place of pilgrimage for those who come to thank the Virgin for miracles and to ask for her blessing. It was built with many volcanic rocks and the inside is lined with paintings depicting the Virgin's miracles, including saving the church from multiple volcanic eruptions.

There are a few popular spots to get some scenic views on Tungurahua, and Banos from above. The first is the Antennas, which are literally the antennas perched atop mountains above Banos. This is the best spot for viewing Tungurahua from a distance, and a round trip taxi will only cost you USD$15. The other option is to take a taxi up to the Casa de Arbol (treehouse) which is perched on the edge of a valley that runs down the side of the volcano and will also cost USD15 for a roundtrip.



Banos is the adventure capital of South America, where you can do all kinds of activities from rafting to paragliding, through many well equipped and trustworthy tour agencies. There are dozens of travel agencies offering rafting, canyoning, paragliding, zip lining, biking tours, jungle tours, horseback riding, trekking tours, amongst other activities in Banos. There are two nearby bridges that offer visitors the opportunity to jump off, and swing like a pendulum. The higher bridge jump costs USD$20. Full and half day whitewater rafting trips are offered on the Pastaza River. The class of rapids available may vary based on water levels. Talk to tour operators to find out what you can expect. Half day trips run USD$30. Climbing the 5,023 meter active Tungurahua Volcano is normally done over the course of two days, with a night being spent at a Refuge at 3,400 meters. Alternatively, you can simply hike to the Refuge. You can also drive up Chimborazo, Ecuador's highest volcano, which goes up to 6,267 meters, and bike back down with mountain bikes. About an hour by bus from Banos, and 15 minutes further by taxi, you will find the Monkey Reservation in Puyo, where you can play with monkeys. Go canyoning and jump into Rio Blanco with an experienced guide for a series of 4 waterfall abseils in quick succession from 8 to 35 meters. The first two are more technical, while the third and fourth are vertical cliffs, and therefore easier to get down. Half day trips with lunch included cost USD$30.

Take a waterfall tour on the Ruta de las Cascadas. In addition to Banos' natural setting at the base of an active volcano, it's within easy walking, biking, or driving distance to a wide array of waterfalls and rivers. Within a 20-minute drive of Banos are dozens of waterfalls and some of the biggest are easily visible from the road. There are numerous ways to visit them, from bicycling at your own pace, to renting an ATV, to taking a double-decker chiva for just USD$6. Some of the waterfalls offer you the chance to take a ride across the canyon on a metal cable car for only USD$1. You can hike for USD$1 right up to the most impressive waterfall, Pailon de Diablo, and actually climb underneath them if you're willing to get wet. The Cascada de La Virgen is the main waterfall near the city center which empties near the thermal baths. The Manto de la novia, is a dynamic waterfall that sometimes features two distinct chutes and has a cable car ride available. For a more relaxing day, head to the Hot Springs (Termales), either at the base of Cascada de la Virgen, only a 5 minute walk from the center of town or at El Salado, newer hot springs located a few kilometers from central Banos. The first Hot Springs have an entrance fee of USD$2, offer towel rental for USD$1 and are open day and night, but can get very crowded, especially on weekends, due to its close proximity to the town. Regarding El Salado, it's worth a bicycle or taxi ride to get there. These pools are situated alongside a creek, and are only open during the day. Locals say the best time to visit is 17h when you will have them to yourself. There are also a number of spas in central Banos that offer a wide range of services, including regular massages for USD$20/hour, hot stone massages for USD$25/hour and manicures & pedicures for USD$10 each.

A nice way to explore destinations in Banos is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • Rafting Tour for $40 details
  • Full Day Private Tour to Cotopaxi Volcano and Quilotoa Lagoon for $90 details
  • Private Full Day Tour in Baños for $65 details

Recommended Activities

What did other people spend on sightseeing in Banos?

Below are a few common prices for sightseeing and activity entry fees in Banos, all of which are based on the reports of previous travelers. These figures should give you a rough estimate of what you can expect to pay. Keep in mind, though, your costs will vary depending on the activities you choose and whether you take advantage of free or budget-friendly options.


  • Two Rented Bikes for the Day
    $10
  • Cost to see Waterfall
    $2.00
  • Day at the Spa
    $45
  • 2 Bike Rentals (1 Day)
    $10
  • Entrance to Waterfall
    $2.00


Nightlife Budget in Banos

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $9.74 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Banos per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $9.74
Nightlife Tips

Nights out are a travel highlight, but reducing your drink tab is a smart way to stretch your budget further.


What did other people spend on Alcohol in Banos?

Below are some common prices for alcohol and nightlife in Banos, based on actual traveler experiences. While these numbers offer an idea of what you might spend, your costs will vary depending on how often you drink and the amount you order. If you're aiming to save money, cutting back on alcohol is a great way to lower your travel expenses.


  • Beer
    $4.00


Budgeting and Travel Tips for Banos

  • Peak season brings higher prices and more people to the destination. To avoid the chaos and save some money, consider a trip during the shoulder or low seasons.
  • Choosing a slower travel pace allows you to soak in the area's beauty while saving money. If you cram your days with endless activities, you'll find yourself spending more. In contrast, slowing down often leads to lower costs and a richer experience.

Budgeting Challenges

  • Banos doesn't offer many public transportation choices. It might be a good idea to arrange for transportation ahead of time, like booking a tour or a private driver. Just keep in mind that this could affect your budget in other areas.
  • Banos isn't a hotspot for hostels, so if you were hoping to find a cheap dorm, you might need to adjust your plans. Instead, consider a budget hotel or an apartment rental.
Traveling in Banos
Banos Banos, Ecuador

Banos (de Agua Santa) is a small city in the Andean highlands of Ecuador under volcano Tungurahua. Its name, which is Spanish for "Baths (of sacred water)," comes from the famous hydrothermal springs in the area. It's equally popular with foreigners as with Ecuadorians, and is known as the adventure capital of Ecuador. The streets are lined with hotels, restaurants, souvenir shops, and tour agencies. Although it is very touristy, lots of people love it, more for the activities and surroundings than for the city itself. It is an important hub for outdoor sports and jungle tours.



We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.