Haciendas, Ranches, and Country Inns in Ecuador
Staying in a hacienda while visiting Ecuador has become a “must do” for any trip to the Ecuadorian Andes. Experience historical farm houses that date back to the 16th century that have been renovated and changed into first class hotels, lodges and inns.
Haciendas in most cases were founded by Spanish settlers who received large gifts of land from the Spanish and then later Ecuadorian government and managed expansive farms using the local indigenous population as laborers. Most haciendas nowadays are reduced to a small area of land around the historical house after centuries of land reforms and selling of land parcels to neighboring farmers. But many of the remaining houses maintain their original architecture, gardens, towering trees and old world ambiance.
Gulliver Travel – Offers a unique experience in Hosteria Papagayo Cotopaxi located 45 minutes south of Quito where travelers can enjoy the nature and culture of the Andes and enjoy many activities such as horseback riding, mountain biking, mountain climbing and more .They are a well respected haciend that has operated since the 1990’s and specialize in active tours in Ecuador and Peru.
Hacienda Pinsaqui – just an hour-and-a-half north of Quito and a few minutes from the famous Otavalo market, you’ll experience 300 years of history staying at a traditional Andean hacienda in the shadows of towering volcanoes Imbabura and Cotacachi in the Imbabura province’s lake district. Stroll through the extensive gardens planted some 3 centuries ago, explore the countryside on horseback, and dine on traditional local cuisine just as the hacienda’s illustrious guests of the past, including Simon Bolivar who used to stay here on trips between Bogota and Quito.
Hacienda Piman – Located a half an hour outside of Ibarra, Piman is an excellent example of a historical Ecuadorian hacienda, having remained in the same family since the 1680’s until today. Recently renovated and opened to tourism in 2013 as a luxurious inn and top-notch restaurant, Piman successfully mixes the old and the new with a historical house with guest rooms, a church, historical arches and structures with a new all-glass restaurant and new tastefully designed rooms. The mountainous area surrounding the hacienda is perfect for scenic hikes and mountain bike rides. Its isolation makes it an exceptionally quiet, peaceful escape from the modern world.
Casa Mojanda – A dramatic mountainside inn, an organic farm, and retreat located above the town of Otavalo in the foothills of Mojanda, featuring spacious rammed earth cottages with magnificent mountain vistas. Enjoy the world famous Otavalo crafts market, horse tours, hiking, biking, birding and kayaking the Mojanda Lakes, as well as a large international reading and video library, traditional hot tub, delicious primarily vegetarian meals, children’s activities, and excellent ethno-cultural tours. Casa Mojanda seeks to cause minimal impact on the natural environment while actively supporting local culture, projects in rural public health, education, conservation of the Mojanda Lakes paramo, and watershed.
Chaupi Estancia Winery – Are premier producers of fine wines on the equator at 2400 m above sea level in the rolling hills of the Andean mountains. There is no lodging here, but tours may be available with advance reservation.
Hacienda Cusin – A luxurious country inn amidst eternally blooming gardens and nearly 400 years of colonial history. Located near Otavalo in a spectacular natural setting at the foot of the dormant Imbabura volcano, activities like horseback riding, mountain biking, and high tea on the balcony are not to be missed. The Tatler, London, 12/96 says “… one of the world’s best-kept secrets.”
Hacienda La Alegria – This fascinating, traditional hacienda was built in 1910 with the charming style of old times. La Alegria is located in the Central Andes of Ecuador, where you can enjoy the most beautiful view of the Volcano Avenue in a family atmosphere. Hacienda La Alegria offers you warm hospitality with a touch of luxury. They cater to independent travelers and larger groups and can tailor a package for most requirements. They specialize in horseback riding vacations in the beautiful surroundings of the Andes of Ecuador and can accommodate experienced riders and beginners.
Hacienda Santa Ana Cotopaxi, Ecuador – Exclusive Hacienda from 16th century that belonged to the Jesuits, it has been completely remodeled keeping its original style. There are 6 spacious luxury rooms with private bathroom and amenities. Located between the Andes Mountains of Pasochoa, Rumiñahui and Sincholagua, just 10 minutes from Cotopaxi. The activities offered are: Horseback riding, Biking, Zip linining and trekking. The food is amazing!
Hacienda Zuleta Ecuador – Dating from the 1600s, Hacienda Zuleta lies at 9,600 feet above sea level in the spectacular Andean mountain range of Ecuador, 2 hours North of Quito. This eco-resort, nature sanctuary and working farm is the home of former Ecuadorian president, Galo Plaza and maintains an authenticity rarely found in modern accommodations. Guests of Hacienda Zuleta have access to our full horse barn and horseback riding trails, prime bird watching areas, mountain bikes, Andean Condor sanctuary, endangered Spectacle bear habitat area, organic gardens, a working dairy farm, cheese factory and museum, hiking trails, local community culture and artisans and much more. Hacienda Zuleta is a member of Smart Voyager, a Smart Luxury Winner and has been featured by Conde Nast Traveler, National Geographic Traveler, and others.