Baños de Agua Santa, a popular holiday destination in Ecuador's Tungurahua province, experienced a Carnival holiday marked by heightened controls and restrictions this year. Despite being a favored location for Ecuadorians during holidays and weekends, the influx of tourists was lower than usual, reflected in the presence of signs at accommodations indicating availability. The mayor of Baños, Marlon Guevara, noted that hotel occupancy reached 87% by Saturday, with an expectation of around 120,000 visitors over the four-day holiday, which he considered a positive outcome.

The reduced tourist turnout can be partly attributed to enhanced safety measures following a recent incident that resulted in the deaths of two tourists during adventure activities. In response, local authorities strengthened oversight of such activities to ensure visitor safety. This move aligns with the government's ongoing efforts to maintain Baños as a secure and enjoyable destination while addressing concerns raised by the community and recent events.

As the holiday festivities continue, the mayor's expectation of a significant tourist turnout shows that Baños remains a prime spot for locals. Many tourists are likely drawn to the city's vibrant atmosphere, especially after attending the Fiesta de la Fruta y de las Flores (FFF) in nearby Ambato, which could also contribute to increased visitor interest during the holiday period. The balance between promoting tourism and ensuring safety is crucial for the future of Baños as a tourist destination.