Sketchy cable car crossing deep canyon in Banos, Ecuador
Located in central Ecuador, the town of Banos attracts tourists from all over the world for its hot baths and gateway to the lush Amazon Rainforest. The name “Banos” translates to “bathroom” or “bath” in Spanish, which is how the town got its name (so we’re told anyways).
A popular activity is to rent mountain bikes and cruise through the mountains, passing through small villages while riding alongside deep river canyons. There are several waterfalls on the journey, one of which is in the photo.
As we stopped to soak in our surroundings we noticed this yellow cable car sliding across the canyon. As it got closer, we realized that it was filled with people. Our curiousity kicked in.
When we checked out where to board this sketchy cable car we noticed that the cable car was powered by an engine that resembled an old rusty lawn mower. Realizing that it probably wasn’t the safest way to travel across the canyon, we elected to hike down to the river and cross by the bridge instead.
Cameron and Nicole Wears are a Canadian couple and newbie parents living in beautiful Vancouver, British Columbia. A passion for travel and outdoor adventure has taken them to over 65 countries & territories on 6 continents in the past 7 years. Consider following us via 
Yikes.
Yikes is right!
Amazing photograph! I missed Banos and I’ve only heard good things about this place!!!
We enjoyed our time there. It was runner up to the Galapagos Islands when it comes to our Ecuador adventures
I was recently in Ecuador but didn’t make it to Banos. That thing does look a little sketchy, especially with the engine you described. You probably made the right decision!
The locals seemed to have no problem with it, and I’m sure it’s probably fine, but it was one of those “do I really need to do this?” moments. Better safe than sorry!
looks fun hehe but im scared og heights…
I’m not big on heights either, probably why it scared me just looking at it!
Smart move–not taking the cable car. I used to live in Ecuador–a while back–and saw lots of sketchy things like that, including buses. Things aren’t generally very well-maintained. And so, your call was a good one!
Agreed. Beautiful place but not known for its safety records!
I’ve actually been in this cable car!!
Quite hair-raising when it first starts because it doesn’t seem to have speed control but as long as you hold on, it was fine!!! I admit I was a bit nervous when I saw how it was powered but it was actually ok. I found cycling along the busy roads with all the big lorries hurtling past a lot more frightening :s Brings back great memories…thanks 
I’m going to double YIKES on this one! I don’t think I could ever, ever get in that cable car!