Banos sits at the foot of the Tungurahua volcano, which has been steadily flowing hot lava and ash since a big eruption in 1999. It is a town of dozens of waterfalls, hot springs and surrounding rivers, often referred to as the `Gateway to the Amazon`. Its privileged location makes it a region with high biodiversity; it is the starting point to explore surrounding national parks, spectacular volcanoes, and an abundance of wildlife.