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Viewpoint · Baños de Agua Santa, Tungurahua
Casa del Árbol
Viewpoint on the hillside above Baños, at about 2,600 meters, with a treehouse and swings over the valley, facing the Tungurahua volcano.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Casa del Árbol
Casa del Árbol is located in the Runtún sector, on the mountainside above Baños, at about 2,600 meters altitude. It began as an observation post for the Tungurahua volcano, in a house built in the crown of a tree, from where locals monitored the volcano's activity. Later it became a lookout popular for its swings.
The swings, attached to branches and wooden structures, extend over the valley, giving the feeling of flying over the cliff. They became known as the 'swing at the end of the world.' Around there are other swings, the treehouse, small zip lines, gardens and snack stands.
From the top you can see the Pastaza valley, Baños down below and, on clear days, Tungurahua straight ahead, with its 5,000-meter cone. The volcano is often covered by clouds in the afternoon.
The access road climbs in switchbacks up the mountain, and the walk is long and steep.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 to 1.5 hours.
Best time
Early in the morning, when the sky is usually clearer to see Tungurahua and there are shorter lines at the swings.
How to get there
It's about 10 km from downtown Baños by mountain road. Go by taxi (arrange for the driver to wait), or by the local bus that goes up to Runtún; on foot, the trail takes two to three hours uphill.
Tip
Go early to catch the volcano without clouds. The swings are operated by staff who help with getting on and off.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Casa del Árbol
What is the swing at the end of the world?
A swing attached to a wooden structure that projects over the valley, at Casa del Árbol, with a view of Tungurahua.
Can you see the Tungurahua volcano?
On clear days, yes, straight ahead. Early in the morning the chances are usually higher.
How to get up to Casa del Árbol?
By taxi or local bus, about 10 km by mountain road, or on foot, a two- to three-hour uphill hike.