Information
Landmark: Pailón del DiabloCity: Banos
Country: Ecuador
Continent: South America
Pailón del Diablo, Banos, Ecuador, South America
Overview
The Pailón del Diablo, or Devil’s Cauldron, is a breathtaking waterfall near Banos-de-agua-santa_banos" class="underline">Baños de Agua Santa in Ecuador’s Tungurahua Province, where foaming water thunders into a misty gorge.Its thundering power, sweeping mountain views, and winding cliffside trails draw nature lovers and thrill‑seekers alike, making it a place you can’t miss.The Pailón del Diablo sits about 17 kilometers, or just over 10 miles, from Baños along the winding Ruta de las Cascadas, where mist from nearby falls can brush your face.You can get to the waterfall from Baños by car, bike, or bus, so the trip’s simple-just a short ride past green hills and rushing streams.The waterfall sits on the Pastaza River, a swift, cold stream born high in the Andes before winding its way into the vast Amazon Basin.The river’s powerful current drops nearly 80 meters-about the height of a twenty-story building-into a jagged canyon, sending up a mist that catches the light.Why do they call it the “Pailón del Diablo,” or Devil’s Cauldron, with its roar like boiling water in a giant pot?They call it Pailón del Diablo-“Devil’s Cauldron”-because the rocks beneath the roaring waterfall twist and curve like a pot of water just starting to boil.Some visitors say they can make out the devil’s face etched in the dark, wet rock behind the falls, a sight that deepens the place’s strange, almost electric pull.There are two main ways to reach the waterfall, each with its own view.The Upper Entrance-the traditional route-is the most popular, with a well-worn path that crunches under your boots.You’ll hike a winding trail through lush, green forest, crossing swaying bridges that creak under your boots.A narrow stone tunnel takes visitors right behind the waterfall, where sheets of water thunder past just a few feet away for a rush you won’t forget.It’s about a 20- to 30-minute walk along this path before you hear the rush of the falls.The Lower Entrance, on the new route, opens up to a sweeping view of the falls, where you can see mist curling above the rocks.Wooden walkways and platforms let visitors take in the whole waterfall, even from far back where the mist drifts in the air.This route takes less effort and works well for anyone who’d rather enjoy a slower pace, like pausing to feel the sun on their face.Either path takes you close enough to feel the mist and hear the thunder of the falls.With the steady mist and fine spray in the air, you’ll end up damp in no time, so bring a waterproof jacket or a dry shirt to swap into.Suspension Bridges: Cross several swaying spans high above the canyon, where you can catch sweeping views of the waterfall and snap that perfect shot.Stone Tunnel Adventure: A slim passage winds behind the waterfall, letting visitors feel the cool spray and hear the thunder of the water from an unforgettable vantage point.Birdwatching and Wildlife: In the surrounding cloud forest, you’ll spot flashes of hummingbird wings, drifting butterflies, and countless plant species-an unforgettable haven for nature lovers.Photography: With its towering cliffs, cool mist, and lush green hills, this spot ranks among the most photogenic places in all of Ecuador.The Pailón del Diablo is stunning any time of year, but your ideal visit depends on what you’re after.From June to September, the dry season offers crystal-clear views-perfect for snapping photos or tackling the hiking trails.Rainy season runs from October to May, when the waterfall roars at full force, mist curling through the air, though the trails can be slick underfoot.If you want to avoid the crowds, go on a weekday or show up early in the morning, when the air’s still cool and quiet.While you’re at Pailón del Diablo, take time to explore more spots along the Ruta de las Cascadas, like Manto de la Novia, a striking waterfall you can reach by gliding over the gorge in an aerial tram.Cascada Agoyán towers above the river, the tallest waterfall you’ll find near Baños.Ziplining and Canyoning: Feel the rush as you soar over misty waterfalls, then climb down slick, sun-warmed cliffs on a canyoning adventure.Baños Hot Springs: After hiking the rugged trails, sink into the steaming thermal pools and feel the mountain chill fade from your skin.In conclusion, the Pailón del Diablo ranks among Ecuador’s most breathtaking waterfalls, where the roar of crashing water meets the thrill of cliffside trails and the raw beauty of the jungle.You might wander among the strange, towering rock formations, trek beneath the shade of green canopies, step carefully across swaying suspension bridges, or stand close enough to the falls to feel the cool mist on your face-this place leaves every visitor with a memory they won’t forget.
