The Andean highlands surrounding Quito offer a delightful mixture of scenery and culture and make an exceptional addition to our Galapagos itineraries. Only two to three hours outside of Quito you will find landscapes you would expect to find in places like Tuscany and the Alps, with breathtaking scenery and incomparable accommodations offering historic architecture and excellent cuisine. Surrounding these historical haciendas you’ll experience thriving indigenous cultures, along with the living remnants of both ancient and colonial cultures. They also provide the opportunity to see wildlife found nowhere else. Because this area is set on the Equator, it is a joy to travel in year round.

The Hacienda system of Ecuador played an important role in the social, economic and political activities of the country. Over the centuries, most have housed figures of historical, political or scientific importance. Many political changes and revolts were plotted within the haciendas’ walls. Our Hacienda options have you staying in the same places where much of South America’s history was written.

Itineraries at a Glance:

The Otavalo Area
Day 1: Quito to Hacienda Pinsaqui • Day 2: the Otavalo Indian Market • Day 3: Cuicocha Lake, return to Quito.

The Cotopaxi Area
Day 1: Quito to San Agustin de Callo • Day 2: Pujili Market and Quilotoa Lake hike • Day 3: return to Quito.

The Complete Hacienda Experience
Day 1: Quito to Otavalo • Day 2: Hacienda Zuleta • Day 3: Hacienda Hualilagua de Jijon and Nacienda San Agustin de Callo • Day 4: Indian Market and Nacienda Chillo Jijon • Day 5: return to Quito.