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Ecuador’s haciendas, or country estates, are vestiges of the Spanish colonial period when Spaniards were given large tracts of land to farm and raise livestock. These haciendas were mostly in the highlands region of Ecuador due to its favorable climate for farming and ranching and its easy access to Quito. Today, many of the owners have converted all or part of the traditional haciendas into luxury hotels offering an escape from the bustle of the major cities and a glimpse of Ecuadorian farm life. Many, but not all, are still working farms in addition to hotels. Below is a list with information on some of Ecuador’s top haciendas.
Province of Imbabura
• Hacienda Cusín – located just 90 minutes north of Quito, this restored 17th century hacienda offers tranquility in addition to easy access to both the cities of Quito and Otavalo. The land on which the hacienda is located today is only a small part of the land purchased by a wealthy Spanish family in 1602. The hacienda remained in the same family until 1970 and was restored in the 1990s. Prices range from $75 a night for a single to $140 for a quad. It costs $320 a night for three people in one of the suites. Breakfast is included. The hacienda also offers a special called the “umbrella rate” of $100 per person per day and it includes all meals, horseback riding, mountain bikes, and wireless internet.
• Hacienda Pinsaquí – built in 1790, this hacienda has been owned by the same family since the 1860s. It has a rich history including stays of the famous South American liberator, Simón Bolívar. The hacienda is located very near the town of Otavalo. Room prices range from $105 a night for a single room to $169 a night for a quadruple and include breakfast. The grounds include 200-year-old gardens and ponds to explore and easy access to the famous artisan market in Otavalo.
Ecuador’s haciendas, or country estates, are vestiges of the Spanish colonial period...
• Hacienda Zuleta – belonging to the family of former president Galo Plaza Lasso, this upscale hacienda is located two hours north of Quito, and is also a working farm of 4,000 acres. This hacienda is a good option for the traveler who wants an authentic hacienda experience. The main house was originally built in 1691 and offers just 15 bedrooms, each individually decorated and with their own fireplace. Prices are per person, and range from $175 to $299 per night. Children 3 years old and younger stay for free and children 12 years old and younger pay half price. These prices include a welcome drink, all meals, and morning and afternoon coffee or tea.
• Hacienda Chorlavi- legend says that during the Incan times, this was the place of preference of Princess Pacha and Huayna Capac. The name Chorlavi means “nest of love”. Today, only a small area remains of what used to be a large hacienda. It was one of the first colonial houses of an hacienda to be converted into a place offering tourist accommodation. Room prices range from $45-$90 per night.
