Haciendas of Ecuador

Upon arrival, our guide will welcome you and transfer you from the airport to your hotel. You will spend the night in Quito.

Situated 2,850 meters above sea level in the Andean foothills, Quito is the capital of Ecuador. The city, located close to the Equator and framed by snow-capped mountains, is renowned for its stunning colonial architecture and artwork. Quito was the first Latin American city to be declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded in the 16th century on the ruins of an Inca city, Quito boasts one of the largest, least-altered, and best-preserved historic areas in the Americas. It was designated a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 1978.

Photo: DanFLCreativo

The Middle of the World, Latitude 0° 0′ 0”: Early in the morning, right after breakfast, you and our local guide will start your tour in the downtown area, known as Quito Colonial. Begin your journey along the “Churches’ Trail” by visiting the Cathedral. Here, you will learn about its history and the guide will explain the internal design of the cathedral, including the Mudéjar influence in its early stages, the area with three longitudinal wings, and a small transversal wing behind the choir.

After the Cathedral visit, enjoy a short walk to the Church of La Compañía, with insights from the guide. The church’s decoration features Muslim influences, with altars covered in gold leaf and carvings of faces and birds. It is considered an architectural gem of the American Baroque style and holds religious significance, as it houses the remains of Saint Marianita de Jesús, who is considered by some as the city’s protector.

Next, visit San Francisco, famous for the Cantuña legend. This area is renowned for its rich cultural heritage. At the San Francisco Church, there is a local craft store called Tianguez, where you can find a variety of Ecuadorian cultural items, such as postcards, books, Ecuadorian music, natural products, and even enjoy coffee with Humitas (sweet corn tamales) at Café Cantuña, located in Plaza San Francisco.

Around midday, head to “Mitad del Mundo,” a monument marking the equator line that passes through Ecuador. You can choose to visit either the Ethnographic Museum or the Inti Ñan Museum, both located near the monument. Along the way, we will stop for a traditional Ecuadorian lunch (optional and not included).

After the tour, we will drive to Otavalo. On the way, you’ll try bizcochos and arrive at the hotel in the evening.

Overnight in Otavalo

Photo: jkraft5

Spend the day in Otavalo, where the indigenous people run a market that operates on a bartering system. This is one of South America’s most famous Indian markets, offering an excellent selection of woven tapestries, blankets, hand-knit sweaters, pottery, and more. It’s a paradise for souvenirs.

Continue with a stop at San Pablo Lake before reaching Otavalo. At the lake, you can admire the beautiful scenery and the Imbabura Mountain.

From Otavalo, in the late afternoon, drive to Papallacta. This small mountain village is renowned for its natural hot springs. Spend the night in Papallacta.

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Photo: tripadvisor – jenlynn821

In the morning, you can take time to visit the hot springs or go for a walk. Afterward, continue your journey along a scenic road to the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano and its National Park.

Cotopaxi is known as the highest active volcano in the world, located 59.54 km from Quito. The park’s lush endemic flora and fauna offer opportunities to see representative species like the Chuquiragua (also known as the flower of the mountaineer), wild horses, deer, llamas, and more. While there, explore the Limpiopungo Lagoon near the Rumiñahui Volcano (149.96 meters) or hike to observe birds.

During our visit to the National Park, we will also explore the museum, which provides information about the natural environment, animals, and plants of the area.

In the evening, stay at a traditional Andean Hacienda.

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Photo: PatricioHidalgoP

After breakfast, immerse yourself in the spirit of Andean Haciendas and their daily activities. Tour the grounds and prepare for a two-hour horseback ride along old cobblestone roads and trails leading to a spectacular viewpoint of La Viudita, overlooking the entire valley.

Enjoy panoramic views along the way. Return to the Hacienda to freshen up and savor a typical lunch hosted by the Hacienda owner. After lunch, you can relax at the Hacienda’s facilities or participate in another activity, such as cycling in the Paramus.

Photo: 123RF – jkraft5

On this day, you will be transferred to Quito International Airport for your Galapagos or international flight.

Photo: helovi