Half-Day Rock Climbing on Tungurahua Basalt — Baños, Ecuador
Spend a focused half-day on the basalt walls above the San Martín canyon near Baños. Short approaches, certified guides, and routes suited for beginners to intermediates make this an ideal introduction to Andean climbing.
The Experience
Before You Go
Send your shoe size in advance
Climbing shoes are provided but must be reserved—message your size via TripAdvisor or WhatsApp before arrival.
Avoid afternoon storms
Book the morning pickup when possible; afternoons in the Andes often produce showers that make basalt slick.
Hydrate at altitude
Baños sits around 1,820 m; drink water before and during the activity to avoid altitude-related fatigue.
Use reef-friendly sunscreen
Apply biodegradable sunscreen to protect local waterways when you rinse off in town’s hot springs later.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the Río Pastaza viewpoint near the parking area for dramatic canyon perspectives
- •Soak at Termas de la Virgen in Baños after climbing to ease forearm fatigue
Wildlife
- •Hummingbirds
- •Andean condor (occasional)
Conservation Note
Stick to established trails and bolted routes to minimize erosion; local operators support low-impact access and pay entrance fees that aid site preservation.
Baños grew as a thermal and pilgrimage town; the basalt walls are remnants of Tungurahua’s volcanic activity that shaped the San Martín canyon.
Photographer's Notes
- • Top of the crag looking down into San Martín canyon
- • Riverside approach with the basalt walls framed by trees
What to Bring
Climbing shoes (if you own them)
Personal shoes often fit better than rental pairs and improve footwork on small basalt edges.
Light wind/rain shellEssential
Afternoon showers are common—pack a thin waterproof to stay warm between climbs.
1–2 liters of waterEssential
Hydration is critical at ~1,820 m elevation, especially during active climbing.
Small daypack
Carry sunscreen, insect repellent, camera, and a light layer without burdening the belay station.
Common Questions
Do I need previous climbing experience?
No — guides provide instruction for beginners and manage belays and ropes; experienced climbers can request more advanced routes.
Are shoes included?
Yes, climbing shoes and full safety gear are supplied, but they ask that you send your shoe size in advance to reserve the correct fit.
How risky is climbing here?
Guides are certified and use standard safety practices; inherent risks of rock climbing remain—follow guide instructions and disclose medical issues.
Is transportation included?
Yes—private transportation from the meeting point in Baños to the crag and back is included in the tour price.
Can children participate?
Children can climb if they are comfortable with heights and have basic coordination; operators note almost no strict age limit but recommend parental judgment.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refund available if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure; cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3–4 hours
Location
Baños de Agua Santa, Tungurahua
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: ability to scramble, stand on feet for multi-pitch sessions, and manage short exposure is sufficient.
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