Excursion: Los Vahos
Literally translated, “the steams,” these steam baths are just over an hour’s walk from Parque Central. Los Vahos make for a great morning / afternoon trip: hike up, relax for an hour in the saunas, then eat a packed lunch and hang out in the sun before heading back down. You also have the option to climb a little farther (see map) to check out a view of Volcán Santa Maria to the south. Though it’s not extremely strenuous, the hike to Los Vahos is almost entirely uphill, so be warned. The owners charge 20Q per person.
- Head south from Parque Central on 12th Ave., turning right on 11th Calle.
- Turn left on 13th Ave A. This road switches back and forth up the hill.
- Pass Cristo Viene. The road turns into a path here. Keep following it.
- At the fork, turn left.
- When you see this house, turn left again.
- Say hello to the cows. ¡Hola Vaca!
- At the blue Tigo school, turn right and follow the path up the hill.
- Enjoy the baths!
- Optional Find the path a short distance past Los Vahos and scramble up the hill for a great view of the volcán.
