Timeline
17:13
Grab a late lunch at Casa Hood. The relaxed atmosphere and eclectic menu are perfect for fueling up before the hike. Since the swing lines grow big in high season, starting early helps you avoid the peak crowd later.
17:43
Take the bus up to Casa del Arbol. The ride takes about 30 minutes. Once there, you have a choice: hike the final stretch or wait for the bus back. If you want to secure a spot on the swings before the sunset crowds, head straight for the swings now. If you prefer a more active approach, take the 3-hour hike down and back, but note that the bus generally returns 1½ hours after it leaves you at the top, so plan your timing carefully if you choose to hike down.
18:13
Position yourself on one of the swings. The view towards the mountains frames the valley perfectly. As the golden light begins around 17:59, the sun sets toward the WSW, casting a warm glow over the Pastaza river valley below.
18:58
Head back down and return to Casa Hood for dinner. It is still open until 22:15, allowing you to enjoy the same relaxed atmosphere and outstanding dishes as you did at lunch, but with the added bonus of the evening chill settling in.
Local tip
The bus back from Casa del Arbol generally comes 1½ hours after it left you. If you stay for the sunset, you will likely miss the immediate return bus, so check the schedule or be prepared to wait or hike down if you prefer not to wait for the next cycle.
Check before you go
- Casa Hood is open 12:00-22:15.
- The bus from Baños to Casa del Arbol takes about 30 minutes.
- High season can bring long wait lines for the swings; arriving early helps.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Baños (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).