Bellavista Stairs Mirador de la Virgen
Panoramic views of Baños de Agua Santa, vibrant music, and a lively atmosphere, especially at night.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively music & crowds
Bellavista Stairs Mirador de la Virgen
Best Time
Lively music & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Panoramic views of Baños de Agua Santa, vibrant music, and a lively atmosphere, especially at night.
"Great view overlooking Baños de Agua Santa. I prefer the view at night. "
🎯 Affordable Entry
Entry is very inexpensive, often around $0.50 to $1.
🎶 Lively Music & Vibes
Enjoy upbeat music that adds to the fun atmosphere, especially on weekends.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City Views
Bellavista Stairs
Soak in breathtaking vistas of Baños de Agua Santa and the surrounding Tungurahua volcano.
Lively Nighttime Ambiance
Mirador de la Virgen
Experience the magic of the city lights from above, with music and a vibrant atmosphere.
Chiva Bus Adventure
Transport to the Mirador
Enjoy a fun and musical ride up to the viewpoint on a traditional Chiva bus.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Lively Atmosphere
Best Views & Value
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Affordable Entry
Entry is very inexpensive, often around $0.50 to $1.
🎶 Lively Music & Vibes
Enjoy upbeat music that adds to the fun atmosphere, especially on weekends.
🍹 Happy Hour Deals
Grab drinks from street vendors just outside for great prices, especially during happy hour.
🚶♀️ Scenic Hike Option
Consider a hike through the hills for a more active approach to reaching the viewpoint.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Affordable Entry
Entry is very inexpensive, often around $0.50 to $1.
🎶 Lively Music & Vibes
Enjoy upbeat music that adds to the fun atmosphere, especially on weekends.
🍹 Happy Hour Deals
Grab drinks from street vendors just outside for great prices, especially during happy hour.
🚶♀️ Scenic Hike Option
Consider a hike through the hills for a more active approach to reaching the viewpoint.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The stairs and viewpoints offer fantastic backdrops for memorable photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Bellavista Stairs Mirador de la Virgen for its incredible panoramic views of Baños and the surrounding volcano, especially at night. The affordable entry fee, lively music, and festive atmosphere, particularly on Fridays, make it a highly recommended and fun experience. Some note that clouds can obscure the view, and a few found the entry fee slightly high for what it is, but overall, it's considered a must-visit for its value and ambiance.
"Lots of fun for just $0.50. Great view of the city. Unfortunately, I did not get to observe due to clouds. Great music playing that is very lively. There is a bomb fire 🔥 as well. Lots of people makes the experience even better. I went up here via Chiva bus, which was an experience in and of itself. Friday was the day that I went so the place was very lively and fun. There are street vendors everywhere selling cloths, hats, food, and drinks. Just outside you can get drinks at great prices. I had two mojitos for $5 during happy hour lol. I would definitely recommend if you have the opportunity."
Paul Smith
"Great view overlooking Baños de Agua Santa. I prefer the view at night. There are food vendors and even a small bar. This is an inexpensive was to have fun in Baños. The Chivas offer a lively ride to the view complete with music."
Fred Ruddock
"Nice hike thru the hills and nice views of the city and surrounding area."
Tim Traveler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach the Mirador de la Virgen via a scenic hike through the hills, or opt for a lively Chiva bus ride which is an experience in itself. +1 Taxis are also an option.
Information on dedicated parking is scarce, but taxis and Chiva buses are common modes of transport, suggesting parking might be limited or not the primary access method.
Baños de Agua Santa is accessible by bus from major Ecuadorian cities like Quito and Guayaquil. The journey offers scenic views of the Andean landscape. +1
Yes, it's possible to walk, and some travelers enjoy the hike through the hills for beautiful scenery.
Many local tour operators in Baños offer packages that may include visits to various viewpoints, including the Mirador de la Virgen.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is very affordable, typically around $0.50 to $1 USD, making it a great budget-friendly attraction.
The Mirador is generally accessible during daylight hours and into the evening, with a particularly lively atmosphere at night.
No advance booking is usually required for the Bellavista Stairs. Tickets can be purchased upon arrival.
While specific discounts aren't widely advertised, the already low entry fee makes it accessible for most travelers.
Information on accessibility is limited, but the stairs and uneven terrain might pose challenges. It's advisable to inquire locally if specific accessibility needs are a concern.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour (sunrise and sunset) offers beautiful lighting for cityscapes. Nighttime provides a stunning view of the illuminated city.
Capture panoramic shots of Baños, the surrounding mountains, and the iconic Tungurahua volcano. The stairs themselves also make for great photo compositions. +1
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the views. However, a camera with good low-light capabilities will enhance nighttime photography.
The top of the stairs offers the most expansive views. Look for unique angles along the staircases and at the various viewing platforms.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and respect privacy before flying a drone in this area.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, you'll find street vendors selling food and drinks, especially on lively evenings. +1
Expect snacks, local treats, and beverages. Some vendors might offer quick meals.
The town of Baños de Agua Santa, located below the Mirador, offers a wide array of restaurants and cafes.
Bringing your own snacks and water is generally acceptable, especially if you plan to hike up.
Street food options can vary, but you might find fruit, empanadas, or other vegetarian-friendly snacks. For more specific dietary needs, dining in Baños town is recommended.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the day for clearer views of the volcano and surrounding nature, or opt for an early evening visit to experience the transition from daylight to the city lights. The lively atmosphere on weekends can be particularly engaging for children.
💰 Budget Travelers
The Chiva bus, while a bit more than walking, offers a unique experience at a reasonable price and is often more economical than private transport. It's an excellent example of how to experience the best of Baños on a shoestring budget.
couples
Consider visiting during sunset for a magical transition of colors, or at night to immerse yourselves in the sparkling cityscape. The relatively low cost makes it an accessible and charming date spot in Baños.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Baños de Agua Santa
Travelers often describe Baños as a place with a unique blend of adrenaline-pumping adventures and serene natural escapes. The local culture is welcoming, and the town is well-equipped to handle tourists with a variety of accommodations, restaurants, and tour operators. Whether you're seeking thrilling escapades or a peaceful retreat amidst the Andes, Baños de Agua Santa provides an unforgettable experience.
Experiencing the Mirador at Night
This is when the Mirador truly comes alive. Street vendors often set up shop, offering snacks and drinks, and some even mention a small bar or happy hour deals. The combination of the illuminated city below, the cool mountain air, and the vibrant energy makes for a truly memorable evening. It's a fantastic, inexpensive way to appreciate the beauty of Baños from a different perspective.
The Chiva Bus: A Festive Ride
Travelers often highlight the Chiva bus as a fun and memorable part of their visit, especially on weekends or during local festivities. It's a great way to mingle with other travelers and locals, and it adds an extra layer of excitement to your visit. The ride itself offers glimpses of the town and surrounding landscape, building anticipation for the panoramic views awaiting you at the top.
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