Experience – Baños, Ecuador: Swing at the End of the World (La Casa del Arbol)
- Location: La Casa del Arbol, Baños, Ecuador (Google Maps)
- Hours: Monday – Sunday, 6:30 am – 7:00 pm
- Price: $1 entrance fee
- Recommended Time: 1 hour
- How to Arrive: By car, hiking
- Distance from Baños: 15 km / 9.3 miles
- Distance from Quito: 205 km / 127 miles
- Ideal Month(s): September to April
La Casa del Arbol, also known as the Swing at the End of the World, is a seismic monitoring station 2,600 meters (8,530 feet) above sea level overlooking the active volcano, Mt. Tungurahua. The swing is part of a small park at Casa de Arbol, which has three swings and a small zip line. Travelers of all ages are welcome to take a ride on the swing at the end of the world. There are guides within the park to help travelers buckle in and push you as you swing.
How to Get to La Casa del Arbol
Hike – It is possible to hike from the city of Baños to Casa del Arbol. The hike is an undulating 9 km (5.6 mi) from the start of the trail to the swing, and the entire trek takes approximately five hours, including time spent at the Casa del Arbol park. Elevation gain is almost 800 meters, and the hike is considered moderately difficult.
Bike – It is possible to bike from the city of Baños to Casa del Arbol.
Local bus – There is a bus that runs from Baños to La Casa del Arbol several times a day. The bus ticket costs ~$1 per person. The bus leaves from the corner of Pastaza and Rocafuerte at 5:45 AM, 11 AM, 1 PM, 2:15 PM and 4 PM (always check the time before your departure because buses are not guaranteed). The bus ride takes approximately one hour.
Taxi – Every taxi driver in Baños will know how to get to La Casa del Arbol. Prices could vary, so ask a trusted source in Baños before you hop in a cab. The trip is approximately 15 kilometers from Baños (it will take you ~30 minutes because the road is curvy and narrow).
Car – If you decided to rent a car in Ecuador, you can reach La Casa del Arbol and leave your car at the small parking lot. The trip is approximately 15 kilometers from Baños (it will take you ~30 minutes because the road is curvy and narrow).
