Introduction
Pailón del Diablo, or “The Devil’s Cauldron,” is a breathtaking waterfall located in the Ecuadorian Andes, near the town of Baños de Agua Santa. Known for its stunning beauty and powerful cascade, it is one of the most visited natural attractions in Ecuador. This blog provides a comprehensive guide to visiting Pailón del Diablo, covering its history, how to get there, places to stay, local cuisine, weather, and estimated expenses.
I want to tell you about my visit to Pailon del Diablo Waterfalls in Baños, Ecuador. First off, you don’t need to buy any fancy tours to get there. It’s easy to find from both entrances, and it only costs $2 per person!
When I got there, I was wowed by the size and power of the Devil’s Cauldron, another name for the falls. It’s right on the Rio Pastaza, part of the Amazon River, and there’s an old story about the Virgin Mary appearing here to keep the locals safe from the volcano.
I started my journey in Rio Verde, which is about half an hour from the vacation town of Baños. I found the trailhead at the end of the Ruta de las Cascadas, a popular bike route that shows off a bunch of amazing waterfalls for about 17 kilometers.
Pailon del Diablo Entry Points
There are two entry points to Pailon del Diablo, but both are near to one other. You may select where you want to enter. The newer road to the viewing platform begins near the soccer field in Rio Verde. You can follow the well-marked route from the field.
This route is significantly shorter than the original; it takes less than fifteen minutes to complete at a leisurely pace; it is not difficult, and you will cross multiple suspension bridges before reaching the viewpoint. However, I would avoid visiting the fall during the weekend, because there are many local tourists as well. Look at that:
This side of entry has a breathtaking panoramic view of Pailon del Diablo. This entry is perfect for tourists with a shortage of time or those who do not feel like trekking steps up and down.
History of Pailón del Diablo
Pailón del Diablo has long been a significant natural landmark for locals and visitors alike. The waterfall’s name, “The Devil’s Cauldron,” derives from its thunderous roar and the swirling mist at its base, which create an otherworldly atmosphere. The area around the waterfall has been inhabited for centuries by indigenous peoples, and the waterfall itself holds cultural and spiritual significance.
Where to Go and What to See
Pailón del Diablo Waterfall
The main attraction, Pailón del Diablo, is a powerful waterfall that drops approximately 61 meters (200 feet) into a rocky gorge. Visitors can experience the waterfall from various viewpoints:
- Suspension Bridges: Cross the suspension bridges for a thrilling perspective of the waterfall and the surrounding lush jungle.
- Observation Platforms: These platforms offer safe, panoramic views of the waterfall and its cauldron-like pool.
- Cueva de los Guácharos: A small cave near the waterfall where you can get close enough to feel the spray of the water.
Nearby Attractions
- Ruta de las Cascadas: A route that features multiple waterfalls, ideal for biking or driving. Highlights include Manto de la Novia and Machay Waterfall.
- Baños de Agua Santa: The nearby town is famous for its hot springs, adventure sports, and vibrant nightlife.
Places to Stay
Baños de Agua Santa offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets:
- Luxury: Sangay Spa Hotel, Samari Spa Resort
- Mid-range: La Floresta Hotel, La Casa Verde Eco Guest House
- Budget: Hostal Chimenea, Hostal Transilvania
Food and Local Cuisine
Baños is known for its diverse culinary offerings, ranging from traditional Ecuadorian dishes to international cuisine. Don’t miss trying:
- Llapingachos: Potato patties stuffed with cheese, served with peanut sauce.
- Trucha: Fresh trout from local rivers.
- Ceviche: A refreshing dish of marinated seafood.
- Melcocha: A traditional taffy made from cane sugar, often prepared in front of you.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Baños has a mild, subtropical climate. The weather is generally cool and humid, with temperatures ranging between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The best time to visit is during the dry season from June to September, when the weather is more predictable and ideal for outdoor activities.
Map and Getting There
Map: Google Maps Link to Pailón del Diablo
Getting There:
- By Air: The nearest major airport is in Quito, from where you can take a bus or a private car to Baños (about 3-4 hours).
- By Bus: Regular buses run from Quito to Baños, and the journey takes around 4 hours.
- By Car: Renting a car provides flexibility and takes about 3 hours from Quito to Baños.
Tourism and Activities
Apart from visiting the waterfall, Baños is a hub for adventure tourism:
- Whitewater Rafting: Available on the Pastaza River.
- Canyoning: Descend waterfalls with the help of ropes.
- Hiking: Numerous trails around Baños offer stunning views and access to natural wonders.
- Zip-lining: Fly over the lush canyons and rivers.
Estimated Expenses
- Accommodation: $10-$150 per night, depending on the type of lodging.
- Food: $5-$30 per meal, depending on the restaurant.
- Entrance Fee to Pailón del Diablo: Approximately $2.
- Transportation: $10-$15 for a bus from Quito to Baños; $30-$60 for a private car rental per day.
- Activities: $20-$50 for adventure sports like rafting or canyoning.
What is the English name for Pailon del Diablo?
the Devil’s Cauldron
Pailón de Diablo or the Devil’s Cauldron is a waterfall in the Andes. It is one of several waterfalls that are achieved by following the route of the Pastaza River in the Province of Tungurahua.
How much does it cost to go to Pailon del Diablo?
Entrance Fee in Pailon del Diablo
The entrance fee is $2 and must be paid at a restaurant on the route leading to the waterfall. Keep in mind, there are two separate entry points that we cover below.
Where is Garganta del Diablo?
Garganta del Diablo, spectacular cataract on the Río Iguazú (Rio Iguaçu) at the border of Argentina and Brazil. The water roars down a descent of 269 feet (82 metres).
How much does it cost to go to Monteverde?
Hours and Entrance Fees
The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is open every day from 7 AM to 4 PM, and the entrance fee is $26 for non-resident adults, $13 for non-resident children (6 to 12 years old), and $8 for residents (all ages).
How much does it cost to go to Mount Diablo Park?
Mount Diablo State Park can be accessed through multiple points of entry. See each entrance here under “Directions”. Parking fees range from $6 per vehicle to $10 per vehicle with an 8 passenger limit. The park opens at 8:00 AM and closes at sunset each night.
Why is Diablo so famous?
Diablo has been considered one of the greatest games of all time for its randomized assignment of quests and enemies on each playthrough, online multiplayer, and graphics
What wine is protected by the devil?
Casillero del Diablo– a legend lives on
Legend has it that over a hundred years ago, the founder of Casillero del Diablo, Don Melchor Concha y Toro, hid a precious collection of wines in his private cellar, protected behind a wrought iron fence.
Is Devil’s throat open?
There was a flood at the Iguazu Falls and we lost the devils throat bridge on October 30th, 2023 and it is open again since July 16th, 2024.
Where is Devil’s throat?
The Devil’s Throat situated with the border between Brazil and Argentina intersecting 23 kilometers upstream from the confluence of Iguazu River to Parana River over the edge of the Parana Plateau. It is a U-shaped chasm.
Why is it called tarpaulin?
The word tarpaulin comes from tar and palling—another 17th Century name for sheets used to cover objects on ships. Sailors also made waterproof clothing from tarpaulins including tricorn hats, choosing the style in an act of defiance to mimic what the officers wore.
Conclusion
Pailón del Diablo is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With its powerful waterfall, beautiful surroundings, and a range of activities, it offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling adventure or a peaceful retreat, Pailón del Diablo and Baños de Agua Santa have something to offer every traveler.
Plan your visit to this natural wonder and immerse yourself in the beauty and excitement of Ecuador.