San Rafael Waterfall the closest Rain-Forest to Quito
The gateway to the Amazon is north east of Quito. Take the Quito-Lago Agrio highway through spectacular scenery to Papallacta and then to the San Rafael Waterfall.

Drive by the suburban neighborhoods of Cumbaya and Tumbaco and continue on to Papallacta. The most elevated spot on the road (4000 mts. asl) is marked by a grotto on the right side of the road only 47 km from Quito. It is surrounded by highland vegetation, and a cold, rainy climate. Continue farther until you reach the Papallacta Lake. Take a left and continue to the Papallacta Hot Springs nestled in the highlands (3250 mts. asl). We highly recommend “Termas Papallacta”, the place for you to stay before going to visit the San Rafael Falls, and/or after your visit. With hot spring water pools, temperatures ranging up to 40 degrees centigrade, the rooms are ample and comfortable, rates from $63 a single, to lovely private cabins that accommodate up to 8 guests (from $185 to $205). All their rooms and cabins have a fireplace. Enjoy their excellent spa, massages, facial and anti-stress treatments. This resort also has a convention center.

From Papallacta continue to descend into the Amazon until you enter the Napo Province, named after its main river. The road continues on down along the river route, until it becomes the Quijos as it grows. The next town, 110 km from Quito is Baeza, where there are nice little places such as Gina’s Restaurant where you can stop for a snack, or sample their different selections of trout.

180 kms. from Quito, passing Papallacta and Baeza, you will find the San Rafael falls. These spectacular waterfalls are where the the Quijos river enters the mouth of the Coca river at 1650 mts. asl. This is in the National Park and there is a $10 fee to visit this amazonic area. You take a short trek, approximately 15 minutes to the falls. On a clear day, from the river Reventador you will see the active volcano of that same name and you may see the explosions and lava flows.

If you wish to stay more time in this area, there is a hostel called Reventador, modest but clean, that offers guided excursions in the area. Either that or just drive back to Papallacta and after an exciting excursion, relax in the hot springs.

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