Immerse yourself in mountain culture in this family-owned estate
Discover timeless Andean elegance at Hacienda Zuleta, a historic estate in Ecuador's lush highlands.
Hacienda Zuleta, with a history dating back to the late 16th century, was originally a Spanish colonial estate. It has remained in the same family (the family of former Ecuadorian president, Mr Galo Plaza Lasso) for generations and has a rich heritage closely tied to Ecuador's history and culture.
Rooms: Hacienda Zuleta offers guests a charming and authentic stay in its 15 beautifully appointed rooms. The hacienda boasts a range of accommodations, from cozy suites in the main colonial building to luxurious garden cottages. Each room is absolutely unique in design and is adorned with traditional Ecuadorian décor, warm fireplaces, and comfortable furnishings, providing an inviting and comfortable retreat after a day of exploration.
Location: Situated in the heart of the Andes, Hacienda Zuleta enjoys a stunning location in the Ecuadorian highlands. Surrounded by lush landscapes, rolling hills, and snow-capped peaks, this historic estate offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city life. Guests can explore the nearby town of Zuleta, known for its rich culture and artisanal markets, or venture into the hacienda's extensive 4,000-acre property to discover the beauty of the Andean countryside.
Amenities: Guests can indulge in gourmet Ecuadorian cuisine, featuring fresh ingredients from the hacienda's organic gardens. The hacienda also offers a library, Wi-Fi, and a cozy living room with a fireplace. For relaxation, there's a lovely garden and courtyard to enjoy, and for the more adventurous, numerous activities to enjoy.
Activities: This hacienda offers a wide array of activities to suit every guest. Explore the Andean landscapes on horseback, hike the stunning trails, or go mountain biking. Birdwatching enthusiasts will delight in the numerous avian species that call the area home. Cultural experiences include visits to local indigenous communities and workshops on traditional Andean crafts.
Sustainability: Hacienda Zuleta is dedicated to sustainable practices. They take pride in their organic farm, which provides the majority of their food, and they have implemented eco-friendly initiatives to minimize their environmental footprint. The hacienda also engages in local community development projects, demonstrating their commitment to both environmental and social sustainability. Your stay at Hacienda Zuleta supports these responsible and sustainable efforts, ensuring that the beautiful Andean landscape is preserved for generations to come.
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When to go
Find out the best time to visit Ecuador with our month by month guide.
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
Best time for the coast and Galapagos due to warmer sea temperatures. Coastal regions enjoy warm temperatures, perfect for beach activities and water sports. Whilst it may occasionally rain, the weather is preferable for these activities compared to the dry season, which is cold and overcast. In the Andes, it is more likely to be humid and wet, meaning it is ideal for exploring cities and visiting indigenous markets, but less ideal for hiking and exploring. The Amazon rainforest is humid and wet and whilst the scenery is pleasant, the animals might be harder to find.
February
Great time for the coast and Galapagos despite potential rain. It is still pleasantly warm along the coast and perfect for beach relaxation and water activities. The mountains see temperatures hovering at about 17°C (63°F) with the humidity and rainfall continuing. Visit Cuenca or Ambato for the Carnaval festivities during February. The Amazon rainforest remains humid, and increased rainfall means a higher chance of flooding.
March
A pleasant climate across the country and cheaper than December- February. Coastal areas are temperate still, and the beaches get quieter as school holidays end. The Andes see temperatures from 12-21°C (54-70°F), hiking opportunities become more appealing as the rainfall starts to slow down. If Easter falls in March, don’t miss the Santa Semana celebrations in Quito. Humidity still reigns in the Amazon rainforest.
April
Beaches and Galapagos are quieter, but the weather remains pleasant. Everywhere else is wet. Coastal areas bask in warm temperatures, perfect for beach adventures and water sports. However, it's worth noting that some regions may experience occasional showers. The mountain ranges can experience intermittent rainfall. The Amazon rainforest is still wet meaning the swollen rivers open up tributaries that are otherwise too shallow to access by boat.
May
Things are getting cooler in Galapagos and on the coast. Whilst the rain clears up along the coast, it becomes colder and less pleasant, so avoid the beaches at this time of year if sunbathing or water sports are on your activity checklist. The Amazon is wet, and there can be frequent road closures. The humidity combined with the wet weather means peak mosquito season too. It is less likely to rain in the Andes in May, and hiking the volcanoes becomes more accessible.
June
The high season for the mountains begins. Around the summer solstice is the celebration of the Incan festival of Inti Raymi, best celebrated in Otavalo or the Ingapirca archaeological site. Along the coast, temperatures range from mild to warm, with occasional rain showers. In the highlands, temperatures are slightly warmer and the climate is drier, making for better birdwatching possibilities. The Amazon region is hot and humid, with heavy rainfall.
July
Best time to visit Quito as it rarely rains but also the most expensive time of year due to high visitor numbers. There is a greater number of travellers exploring the highlands for good reason – it is an excellent time to embark on the Quilotoa loop trail or to visit Parque Nacional Cotopaxi. Head to Guayaquil for its foundation celebrations to experience some Ecuadorean culture.
August
August presents favourable conditions for visiting Ecuador, particularly in Quito, where a brief dry spell occurs. It is an opportune period to engage in hiking activities around the picturesque Andes, where the weather remains consistently manageable. Additionally, witnessing the remarkable 70km procession of La Virgen del Cisne (Virgin of the Swan) is a noteworthy cultural experience. Furthermore, the rainfall in the Amazon region begins to diminish, resulting in reduced hazards during hikes characterized by slippery terrain.
September
September in Ecuador brings slightly humid conditions, but overall, the weather is reasonable for both the coast and the highlands. It is definitely better weather for hiking than surfing, however. September is best for its cultural offerings in the form of the Fiesta de la Mamá Negra in Latacunga where you can witness traditional dances, music, and culinary delights or the and the Fiesta del Yamor harvest festival in Otavalo.
October
October is perhaps around the best time to visit the Amazon basin due to drier conditions (it will still be raining, just less). It is cheaper to visit the Galapagos and the coast at this time because it is too cold for beach activities. A great time to hike the mountains if you prefer lower traveller numbers.
November
November sees a continuation of reduced rainfall in the Amazon, making it a great time to spot animals, and avoid mosquitoes! Spend time in any city at the beginning of the month to participate in Día de los Difuntos (All Souls Day) where you can partake in colada morada, a purple corn-based drink, and sweet bread shaped like babies called guagas de pan.
December
In December, Ecuador offers a wide range of experiences that cater to various interests. Along the coast, the calm seas and excellent water clarity create ideal conditions for boat-based wildlife-watching, as well as diving and snorkelling adventures. For beach lovers, the coastal region provides an array of options, with beachside fishing villages and vibrant coastal party towns where one can set up camp and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
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