Baños is located next to an active volcano 'Tungurahua' (throat of fire). The town gets it's name from the steaming thermal baths bubbling up from the ground.

At an elevation of 1800m it has a refreshing climate and we decided to spend a few days here exploring the surrounding mountains and soaking in the thermal pools. The walk up to Bellavista was a tough 40min climb but well worth it for the fantastic view over the town. We continued to climb another 2km to the small village of Runtún where a local farmer insisted we follow him further up the mountain for a view of the Volcano. The volcano certainly was impressive (no activity today though) but it was a shame the top was obscured by clouds. After stopping to eat lunch (with an amazing view of Baños below) we continued across the hillside to the statue of La Virgin del Agua Santa, which looks down over the town, before heading back to our hostel. A good day of walking, almost 10km!

The thermal baths are located next to an impressive waterfall and we spent an afternoon relaxing in the three pools. One is very hot at 42C, another is a more moderate 25C and the third is feed by the cool waterfall - great for jumping into after soaking in the hot pool! With the waterfall as a backdrop the thermal baths were the perfect place to chill-out.

We also received great news from home, Steph's sister Rachel has had a baby girl! So we are now auntie Steph and uncle Pete! Congratulations to Rachel and Adam.

Check out ‘Ecuador - Coca to Baños’ at http://gallery.me.com/peterjprice/101712