Banos is a really cool and popular tourist town sited at 1,800m above sea level between the jungle and the Andes. Its chief claim to fame, other than the natural springs from which it gets its name, is that the local church blesses the cars of the faithful every Sunday. Everyone who is anyone in Ecuador (or at least anyone who can afford it) will drive their new car to Banos to have it blessed. The ironic thing is that the car (and its owner) would probably be better off being blessed before attempting some of the cliff side roads leading into Banos from Amazon province. Aside from this quirky local custom Banos is a fantastic place for hiking and other outdoor persuits.

I spent both days I had in Banos hiking, on the first day to the hill above town for some spectacular views and second up to a refuge at 3,800m on the nearby Tegnneofeu Volcano (honest Mum, it was not very active at the moment - the entry in the Lonely Planet is a bit overdramatic).

While hiking behind Banos on the the first day I got lost in the farmlands on the ridge behind Banos but fortunately was given directions on the criss-cross tails by a number of local people of Inca decent, wearing local dress and funny little hats while leading their cows to other pastures. They didn't speak any english or much Spanish but were so happy and friendly that this afternoon was a highlight of my time in Ecuador. I eventually found a coffee shop / viewpoint and sat their reflecting on how cool the people were and basking in the late afternoon sun.