Pastaza River Gorge
Experience a thrilling open-air cable car ride over a lush gorge, with stunning waterfall views and an easy walk to the base.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Pastaza River Gorge
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience a thrilling open-air cable car ride over a lush gorge, with stunning waterfall views and an easy walk to the base.
"A fun stop with a thrilling cable car ride across the valley and great up-close views of the waterfall!"
Bring Cash for Entry
There's a small entrance fee ($1-$2) and a shop at the entrance. Bring cash as cards might not be accepted.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk to the waterfall base is easy, but good footwear is recommended, especially if you plan to walk behind the falls.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cable Car Ride
Across the Pastaza River Gorge
Experience a thrilling, open-air cable car ride offering breathtaking, up-close views of the waterfall and gorge.
Waterfall Base Walk
Base of the Waterfall
A short, easy walk to the base of the waterfall, where you can feel the mist and admire its power.
Gorge Views
Cable Car and Valley Overlooks
Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the lush green gorge and the winding Pastaza River below.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cable Car Thrills & Waterfall Views
Timing Your Visit for Peace
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Cash for Entry
There's a small entrance fee ($1-$2) and a shop at the entrance. Bring cash as cards might not be accepted.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk to the waterfall base is easy, but good footwear is recommended, especially if you plan to walk behind the falls.
Open-Air Cable Car Experience
The cable car is open, so be prepared for wind and enjoy the exhilarating ride!
Slippery Behind the Falls
Walking behind the waterfall can be very slippery and wet, so be cautious.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash for Entry
There's a small entrance fee ($1-$2) and a shop at the entrance. Bring cash as cards might not be accepted.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk to the waterfall base is easy, but good footwear is recommended, especially if you plan to walk behind the falls.
Open-Air Cable Car Experience
The cable car is open, so be prepared for wind and enjoy the exhilarating ride!
Slippery Behind the Falls
Walking behind the waterfall can be very slippery and wet, so be cautious.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the thrilling open-air cable car ride for its unique views of the waterfall and gorge. The short, accessible walk to the waterfall base is also a highlight, offering a refreshing experience. While some find the entrance fee slightly high for the duration, the overall beauty and excitement make it a worthwhile stop.
"This was a great experience not a lot of people around a short hike down the valley to get to the waterfall and then on the way back everything is super clean nice the weather was pleasant. People who are taking care of the waterfall are friendly. They ask you for a dollar (which repels tourists in the long run)
Loved the peace of this place!"
Mansour Mansouri
"It was $2 a person to cross which felt a little expensive considering the cost of other options nearby. The car looked old but felt safe and the views were very nice. Definitely would recommend."
Suzette Hendrick
"A fun stop on your drive to Quito, the cable car here gives a brief but exciting trip across the valley, and great up close views of the waterfall!"
Glenda Meeberg
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Pastaza River Gorge is easily accessible by car, often as a stop on the drive between Baños and Puyo. There's parking available near the entrance.
Yes, it's a well-marked attraction along the main road, making it a convenient stop for travelers.
Absolutely! It's a perfect short stop on your way to or from Baños, offering a quick but memorable experience.
Most visitors arrive by private car or taxi. Public buses might pass by, but stopping directly at the attraction might require coordination.
While buses travel the route, direct stops at the gorge might be infrequent. It's best to confirm with local bus operators or opt for a taxi/private vehicle for flexibility.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There's a small entrance fee, typically around $1-$2 per person, payable in cash at the entrance.
No, tickets for the cable car are usually purchased on-site. It's advisable to have cash ready for the transaction.
The attraction is generally open during daylight hours, but it's best to check locally for specific times, especially on weekends or holidays.
The entrance fee is typically per person, so ensure everyone in your group has the necessary cash.
Information on discounts is not widely available, but it's always worth asking at the entrance if you qualify for any special rates.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The primary attraction is the thrilling open-air cable car ride across the gorge, offering spectacular views of the waterfall and surrounding landscape.
The walk to the base of the waterfall is described as short and easy, making it accessible for most visitors.
Yes, it's possible to walk behind the waterfall, but be prepared for slippery and wet conditions.
Expect stunning panoramic views of the lush green gorge, the powerful waterfall, and the winding Pastaza River.
The cable car is an open-air experience that provides a thrilling ride. While it might seem rustic, it's a popular and generally safe way to experience the gorge.
📸 📸 Photography
The cable car offers unique vantage points. Also, the base of the waterfall and various overlooks along the gorge provide excellent photo opportunities.
Yes, the open-air cable car allows for unobstructed views, perfect for capturing dramatic shots of the waterfall and gorge.
Consider using a tripod for long exposures to capture the silky effect of the water. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections and enhance colors.
Generally, photography is allowed, but always be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways.
Morning light can be softer, while afternoon light can offer more dramatic shadows and highlights. Experiment to see what you prefer.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Day-Trippers & Road-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrilling Cable Car Experience
Travelers often describe the cable car as a thrilling experience, emphasizing the close-up views of the cascading water and the sheer drop below. While it might appear rustic to some, it's a well-established part of the attraction that provides unparalleled access to the gorge's natural beauty. Remember to hold on tight and enjoy the ride!
For the best experience, consider visiting during less crowded times to fully appreciate the views without feeling rushed. The open-air nature means you'll feel the elements, so dress accordingly and be ready for a sensory adventure.
Exploring the Waterfall Base and Beyond
For the more adventurous, there's an opportunity to walk behind the waterfall. This experience, while rewarding with unique perspectives, comes with a caveat: it can be very slippery and wet. Sturdy, waterproof footwear is highly recommended if you plan to venture behind the curtain of water. The friendly staff who manage the site are often happy to offer advice and ensure a safe experience for visitors.
Don't forget to bring cash for the small entrance fee, which helps maintain the site. There's also a small shop where you can grab refreshments. The overall atmosphere is peaceful, especially if you manage to visit during off-peak hours, allowing you to truly soak in the natural splendor of the Pastaza River Gorge.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit