Chamana Waterfalls
Discover the powerful cascades of Chamana Waterfalls in Baños, Ecuador, offering adventure and natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak waterfall flow
Chamana Waterfalls
Best Time
Peak waterfall flow
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the powerful cascades of Chamana Waterfalls in Baños, Ecuador, offering adventure and natural beauty.
"A beautiful place that used to be open to the public is now fenced off with barbed wire and padlocks."
Confirm Access Fees
Check current entry fees as access may be restricted to private property. :ticket:
Wear Water Shoes
Essential for canyoning and navigating slippery rocks. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Chamana Waterfalls
Ulba Parish, Baños de Agua Santa
Experience the raw power and beauty of multiple cascades, perfect for adventure and relaxation.
Canyoning Adventure
Chamana Waterfalls
Descend down the powerful waterfalls for an adrenaline-pumping experience you won't forget.
+1
Relaxing by the Falls
Chamana Waterfalls
Enjoy the soothing sounds and serene atmosphere of the waterfalls, a peaceful escape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Chamana Waterfalls
Best Time for Waterfall Adventures
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Confirm Access Fees
Check current entry fees as access may be restricted to private property. :ticket:
Wear Water Shoes
Essential for canyoning and navigating slippery rocks.
Book Canyoning Tours
Several companies offer guided canyoning experiences.
Combine with Ulba & Silencio
Easily visit these nearby falls on a 3-for-1 hike.
Tips
from all over the internet
Confirm Access Fees
Check current entry fees as access may be restricted to private property. :ticket:
Wear Water Shoes
Essential for canyoning and navigating slippery rocks.
Book Canyoning Tours
Several companies offer guided canyoning experiences.
Combine with Ulba & Silencio
Easily visit these nearby falls on a 3-for-1 hike.
Listen from Your Hostel
Some accommodations are close enough to hear the falls!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Chamana Waterfalls are praised for their natural beauty and relaxing atmosphere, offering a peaceful escape. However, some visitors express disappointment with recent developments, noting that parts of the area are now fenced off as private property, potentially requiring an entrance fee, which detracts from the experience of a freely accessible natural treasure.
"Beautiful. Not over run with Party Bus tourist. Very relaxing sitting by the falls."
John McDonald
"Completely disappointed. Another place embraced by capitalist "development and progress." A beautiful place that used to be open to the public is now fenced off with barbed wire and padlocks. Private property signs prevent public access. We went there with the idea that it was one of the unmonopolized natural treasures, and when we arrived, we found this description (video attached).
I should clarify that it doesn't matter if they charge a lot or a little. What matters is that they charge and enclose the place, thus monopolizing nature."
Andres Felipe Alba Castillo
"Departing from Mama Tunga Hostel, visit the Chamana waterfalls, a short drive away."
Oswaldo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Chamana Waterfalls are located in the Ulba Parish, a short distance from Baños. Many visitors reach them via a 3-for-1 hike that also includes the Ulba and Silencio waterfalls.
While the area is known for its numerous waterfalls, following signs for the 'Ruta de las Cascadas' or asking locals for directions to Ulba Parish will guide you.
Yes, there is road access to the vicinity of Chamana Waterfalls, and parking may be available. However, recent reports suggest some areas might be privately owned and fenced.
Many visitors enjoy hiking the 'Route of Waterfalls,' which can include Chamana, Ulba, and Silencio for a combined experience.
Local buses that travel along the main road towards Puyo often pass near the Ulba Parish, where Chamana Waterfalls are located. Confirm the exact route and stops with local operators.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Recent reviews indicate that some parts of Chamana Waterfalls may now be on private property and require an entrance fee. It's advisable to confirm current access policies and costs before your visit.
While some parts might be free, private property access could incur a fee. The 3-for-1 hike including Ulba and Silencio waterfalls was reported to cost around $3 per person.
As access can be variable due to private ownership, there are no fixed official opening hours. It's best to visit during daylight hours.
For general access, advance booking is usually not necessary unless you are booking a guided tour or canyoning experience.
Information on discounts is not widely available. However, guided tours might offer package deals that include waterfall access.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main activities include admiring the cascades, hiking the surrounding trails, and for the adventurous, canyoning down the waterfalls.
While the natural beauty is appealing, the terrain can be slippery and uneven. Canyoning is generally for older children and adults. Supervise young children closely.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes or water shoes, especially if you plan on canyoning or walking near the water. Quick-drying clothing is also recommended.
Swimming might be possible in certain calmer pools, but be cautious of strong currents and slippery rocks. Canyoning involves controlled descents into the water.
Facilities can be limited, especially if accessing free areas. If you book a canyoning tour, changing facilities are usually provided by the tour operator.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the dramatic cascades from various angles. The base of the falls offers powerful shots, while higher viewpoints provide panoramic vistas.
Be mindful of water spray and slippery surfaces. A waterproof camera or a protective case is highly recommended, especially if you're participating in water activities.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing the photographic opportunities.
Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and respect any posted restrictions to avoid issues.
Some hostels are situated close enough to the waterfalls that you can hear and even see them from your room, offering unique photo perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The '3-for-1 hike' including Ulba and Silencio waterfalls is a manageable way for families to see multiple falls without extensive travel. +1 However, activities like canyoning are generally recommended for older children and adults due to the adventurous nature of the activity. Ensure children are supervised closely, especially near the water's edge.💰 Budget Travelers
Many visitors reach the falls via local buses or by hiking from nearby hostels, minimizing transportation costs. Opting for self-guided exploration rather than organized tours (unless canyoning) can also help keep expenses down.❤️ Couples & Adventure Seekers
+1 The sound of the cascading water creates a naturally romantic ambiance, and the shared adventure of canyoning can be a bonding experience. Consider staying at a hostel with a view of the falls for a more immersive and peaceful retreat. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Access to Chamana Waterfalls
Despite potential access changes, the waterfalls remain a significant attraction. They are often visited as part of a '3-for-1 hike' that includes the nearby Ulba and Silencio waterfalls, a popular and relatively affordable option.
+1 The proximity of some hostels to Chamana also means you might be able to hear the soothing sounds of the falls right from your accommodation, adding to the immersive natural experience. The Thrill of Canyoning at Chamana
+1 Companies like Jamu Tours and IVAGATOURS specialize in these excursions, ensuring safety and providing all necessary equipment. +1Participants often describe the experience as both scary and incredibly fun, with the high and powerful waterfalls creating a truly memorable adventure.
It's an opportunity to challenge yourself and overcome fears while being surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Proper gear, including water shoes, is essential for this activity due to the slippery and wet conditions. Exploring the Route of Waterfalls
+1 Many visitors combine a visit to Chamana with other nearby falls like Ulba and Silencio, creating a comprehensive waterfall exploration day. +1 This '3-for-1 hike' is a popular and cost-effective way to see multiple natural wonders in a single outing, with reports suggesting a low cost per person for this combined route. Beyond these specific falls, Baños de Agua Santa is renowned for its abundance of waterfalls, with over 35 activities available in the region.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit