Casa del Arbol

Instagrammers eat your heart out…this is one of the most photographed spots on the informal gringo trail.

Swing on a precarious, but relatively safe Tree House (Casa del Arbol) while getting some of the most epic photos of your South American travels.

Perched on a lush green hill surrounded by enthralling views, Casa del Arbol is in full sight of the looming volcano, Tungurahua.  It’s fairly active, so there’s a good chance it’ll be spewing ash for you.

How to get there:

• Hike:
  • The trek is about 7.2km and has an elevation gain of about 800 meters
  • The hike begins in the southwest of town, near Misioneros Dominicanos street
  • You should easily see the trailhead sign
  • Bring snacks and water
• Take a taxi:
  • Like the rest of South America, agree to the price before getting in the taxi
  • A taxi to the top is probably your easiest method
  • Take the main road of E30 and turn right just before the town of Ulba to take Via a Runtun.  Follow this road up to Casa del Arbol
• Rent a Car/4-wheeler/Motorcycle/Bicycle:
  •  If you’re up for a little adventure, look into renting a car, 4-wheeler, motorcycle, or bicycle
  • Be aware, the road up is narrow and a little bumpy, so exercise caution
  • Check those brakes before ascending – hurtling downhill is a bad time to learn your brakes are shot
• Tour company:
  • Lots of tour companies on offer
  • Only real downside is showing up to the swing at the same time as a bunch of other people – this makes your photo opportunity a little more challenging
• Local Bus:
  • The cheapest option next to hiking, this should cost you about $1
  • Meet at the corner of Pastaza and Rocafuerte – Buses leave at 5.45am, 11am, 1pm, 2.15pm and 4pm BUT check with your hotel or tour agency for up to date departure times
  • Takes about 1 hour