Papallacta Volcanic Hot Springs

We chose the Papallacta Volcanic Hot Springs & Spa as our destination for the day. At 10,000ft above sea level the air temperature is a cool 50 degrees but the volcanic spring water is a comfortable 96 degrees, and only a 2hr bus ride from Quito. The sun is very strong at the equator and daily care must be taken to protect the skin during its high peak. We soaked and relaxed for hours and came away refreshed. Six separate pools with varying temperatures ranging from cold to very hot make these waters absolutely magical. Amazon legend says that these waters and mountains were worshipped for their great healing powers. Papallacta means "land of the potatoes".  Fantastic trout fishing brings many American tourists to this small Ecuadorian town.

Thermas de Papallacta

Montecito Hot Springs

A blanket of pure white fog spreads out moistly shrouding the ocean coastline making it the perfect day for hikers who crave sunshine to climb into the canyons seeking warmth and healing energies. Always a topic of conversation are the many wildfires that have scorched this vista. Still Mother Nature is confident in her skills to transform even the most deeply scarred landscape or human spirit. Feeling the delicate balance of life as I climb up out of the fog and into a lush oak lined canyon, croaking frogs and the occasional pungent wafts of sulphur let me know I'm nearing the healing mineral springs. Banana trees shelter vibrant turquoise colored water inviting me to sit and reflect how very lucky I am to know about this hidden medicinal gem. Ališhawi ‘O’ - is the traditional Chumash name for this thermal spot when once this was the commonwealth. Mother nature is doing her best to make me forget all about holiday shopping and the work a day world. As I sit in silence I can feel the vast emptiness of meditation tugging at my heart telling me things will be set right in the world and everything is still under Mother's divine control.

Save the Hot Springs

Hot Sulphur Springs

My first Hairflipp!
Getting Poison Oak was worth it.

Natural aqua blue hot springs in a beautiful canyon less than a mile off U.S. Highway 101 at Lompoc Exit (North Santa Barbara County). A short trail takes you to this sulphur hot springs which provides a great soak while lush vegetation makes you feel like you’re in a jungle. The Palm tree at water's edge was supposedly planted by Jim Morrison of the Doors. Truth or Fiction? You decide. Beware of poison oak along the trail. Water temperature can be near 90 degrees but varies with the season. The spring is only open during daylight hours as the parking lot closes at dusk.

Read more at Trails.com: Gaviota State Park (Las Cruces) Hot Spring