Where to Go for Spa & Hot Spring Days: the 2 Best Worldwide

1.Papallacta Hot Springs & Guango Birding Reserve Private Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 70 reviews · 7 hours (approx.) · from $120Our pick

Leave Quito at 8 a.m. with a private guide such as Daniel or Christian for Guango birding, a river walk, mountain views, and several hours at Papallacta Hot Springs. You can adjust the pace, spend longer at the pools, or arrange spa treatments. Transport and guide are included, but entrance fees, lunch, and tips are extra.

“Daniel, our guide, arrived promptly at our accommodation in a clean modern car. He was very knowledgeable about the birds in the areas that we visited and made adjustments to the itinerary to cater for our interests. We also enjoyed the stop at the bird sanctuary where there were facilities for refreshments. The time at the thermal springs was a relaxing break in the middle of a busy tour. Thank you Daniel for a great day.”

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2.Birding Hike and Hot Spring Soak from Denver

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 3 reviews · from $275

Join Ryan, a Ph.D. ecologist and naturalist guide, for a private birding hike through spruce-fir forest to a lake and active glacier. Search for mountain birds and wildlife, enjoy a hot drink, then have lunch in Idaho Springs before soaking at Indian Hot Springs. Hotel pickup, gear, snacks, and water are included.

“I cannot recommend taking a tour with Ryan enough! The day prior to my tour the Denver area received roughly two feet of snow. Ryan reached out prior to the storm and was very flexible with our plans when the weather conditions did not allow for what was originally planned. Ryan is incredibly knowledgeable about birding, geology, and history. The tour was a great blend of learning, hiking, and relaxation. I could not recommend this enough for people looking for a unique experience!”

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