7 Top Ecuadorian Haciendas for Stays in 2021

7 top Ecuadorian haciendas for stays in 2021

Here in the pint-sized South American country of Ecuador, 2021 will see the continued opening of some of the most amazing - but safe - nature vacations. A far cry from the crowded cities and crowds you might prefer to avoid are several luxury haciendas - South American crown jewels with breathtaking scenery and a vibrant culture to match.

The Ecuadorian Andes are dotted with such haciendas that feature breathtaking views and celebrate the country's rich heritage at the same time. Here, we've rounded up some of our favorite hacienda hotels in Ecuador.

1. Hacienda San Agustin de Callo

Located in its own hacienda (country estate) and built on the current site of an Inca temple, San Augustin de Callo is steeped in history. Where can a traveler dine in the still standing Inca walls, with the niches that housed statues of their ancestral gods? Indeed, it is the northernmost point of Cusco (Peru) which presents an Inca construction of "imperial style".

In the main building (the Inca House) is the dining room and living room which overlook a beautifully maintained garden and grazing llamas. In addition, there is a nice little chapel where weddings take place. There is even a house on the land which can be rented out to families.

The bedrooms themselves are located either around the courtyard or in separate pavilions nearby. Each of these 10 rooms and suites is individually decorated with murals and all have a fireplace. On a clear day here it looks like you can stretch out and touch the Cotopaxi volcano - it looks so close.

2. Hacienda El Porvenir

Located a short distance from the secluded northern entrance to Cotopaxi National Park, the historic Hacienda El Porvenir is ideally located for providing a high altitude cow-influenced vacation.

In addition to the well-appointed suites and traditional rooms, El Porvenir offers accommodation in its Machai rooms, which feature single beds separated by traditional woven walls. Totora Straw.

Located on the slopes of the Rumiñahui volcano, Hacienda El Porvenir is also the perfect place to explore Cotopaxi National Park and learn a little more about Andean life. The hacienda is typical of the region, built with thick adobe walls and a thatched roof. You can explore the surroundings on horseback or by bicycle.

3. Hacienda Hato Verde

During colonial times, the highlands of Ecuador were divided into large estates and more recently into "haciendas" (country estates) with their own lands to maintain. Hacienda Hato Verde is part of this rich tradition.

The hacienda is part of a large 140 year old dairy farm. Its elegant farmhouse was rebuilt in 2009, preserving its rustic materials, decorations and style. The country house serves as the home of the owner and his family, and also has 10 lovingly decorated bedrooms, each with a fireplace, its own bathroom, beds with white duck feather duvets and a lovely view of the farm.

You will also appreciate the impeccable masonry work of the structure, reflecting the rustic colonial style of the area and generating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. At the same time, you will enjoy all the comforts and necessities of a boutique hotel.

The hacienda is located a few minutes south of the main entrance to Cotopaxi National Park, prominently overlooking an expanse of volcanoes. Think of yourself in one of these beautiful suites enjoying the rolling pastures of the fertile slopes that surround you. The hacienda gardens combined with the spectacular Andean countryside create the perfect relaxing atmosphere.

4. Hacienda Zuleta, Zuleta

Probably one of Ecuador's most revered hotels, this prestigious hacienda once belonged to President Galo Plazo Lasso. Since then, it has grown into an award-winning, family-friendly boutique hotel with moving views over the 5,200-acre estate.

The decor is simple and sophisticated, which allows the 350 year old building to shine with rooms offering a wonderful warm atmosphere. Being a working farm, you can be sure to eat with the freshest ingredients, with mouth-watering Ecuadorian cuisine being the order of the day.

As dusk sets in, gather around the bonfire in the courtyard to listen to music and storytelling, a blanket of stars twinkling above you!

5. Hacienda Tambopaxi

Under the majesty of the Cotopaxi volcano and surrounded by an imposing setting of five other volcanoes of the Andes Cordillera, lies the Hacienda Tambopaxi. This Cotopaxi, Ecuador hotel is a comfortable and hospitable place, ready to welcome a wide variety of guests from all over the world seeking adventure, sport, wellness or relaxation.

Tambopaxi is the only eco-lodge located in the heart of Cotopaxi National Park. Serving as a high altitude acclimatization center located at an altitude of 3,750 meters, Tambopaxi also offers a pleasant restaurant, cabins with private bathrooms and even a camping area. The hacienda has a spectacular landscape, not only of Andean paramo grasslands, with all their flora and fauna, but also of the largest volcanic region of Ecuador. All this makes Tambopaxi the favorite spot for expert geologists, mountaineers, sportsmen, families and tourists of all ages.

6. Hacienda Pinsaqui, Otavalo

Over 300 years old, the Hacienda Pinsaqui is as important to the northern highlands of Ecuador as the world-famous indigenous craft market in the nearby town of Otavalo. Open for day trips as well as overnight stays, Hacienda Pinasquí is a popular destination for foreign travelers and Ecuadorians.

The charming tropical courtyards and gardens are pretty sanctuaries to retreat to, while in the historic building itself, travelers can expect to be greeted with colorful Ecuadorian touches and design cues amidst striking white walls.

Traditional Ecuadorian cuisine served in the beautiful Pinsaqui dining room

During your stay, you can take the opportunity to learn even more about the local culture with everything from weaving and embroidery classes to cooking classes led by the hotel's chef. A stay at Hacienda Pinsaqui will certainly give you an authentic experience.

7. Hacienda Cusin

The land on which Hacienda Cusin was built belonged to Philip III, King of Spain, until 1602. Today the vast land contains the original hacienda house, several old buildings that have been converted into comfortable rooms, a modern monastery built in colonial style to blend in with other structures, and a few houses available for short and long term rental. Day visitors are invited to stroll through the manicured gardens and dine in the excellent restaurant.

Throughout 2021, these Ecuadorian haciendas - and the country's travel industry in general - will remain under incredible control. So rest assured that all high quality traveler haciendas have already adapted their operations and standards to ensure guest safety as travel continues to open. Consider these Ecuadorian haciendas viable options for traveling this year!

Alfonso Tandazo is President and CEO of Surtrek Tour Operator. Surtrek Tour Operator is a well established company specializing in bespoke luxury tours in Ecuador, the Galapagos and the rest of South America. If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to enhance your profile, please contact us.