There is no better way to discover the local culture of Ecuador than to immerse yourself in day to day life at traditional working farm, Hacienda Zuleta.
Once home of late Ecuadorian president Galo Plaza Lasso, the 17th-century hacienda is our favourite stop in the Ecuadorian highlands. Hacienda Zuleta is still run by the Plaza Lasso family, and tea with Galo’s daughter Margarita is the best introduction to Ecuador’s history and culture.
What we love about Hacienda Zuleta
- The traditional hacienda anchors a 4,000-acre working farm, complete with its own cheese factory and condor conservation program
- Meals follow traditional family recipes and are served on a long communal table with fresh produce straight from the hacienda’s organic farm.
- All suites are located in the main building – Mamita Osayo is our favourite – and date back to 1691. We recommend 2-4 nights in beautiful Hacienda Zuleta.
- The historic bedrooms feel like something out of a Gabriel Garcia Márquez novel
- Located in the heart of Ecuador’s Avenue of Volcanoes, Hacienda Zuleta commands breathtaking views from every side.
- The magnificent birdwatching: from bejewelled hummingbirds to magnificent condors, Zuleta is a haven for bird species of all kinds, and one of the few places you can see the extremely rare condor in the wild.
There is much to be explored in these mysterious and culture packed mountainous highlands.
The vast grounds are best explored on the hacienda’s renowned Zuleteño horses, and traditional cooking and weaving classes are available for those looking to immerse themselves in local culture.
After a day hiking or cycling along estate trails, indulge in an evening of wine and homemade cheese by the fireplace.
When
to Travel
All year
Blessed with an equatorial location, the climate at the Hacienda is temperate year round.
Days are often bright and warm with occasional spring-like showers from December to June.
July to September is normally dry and hot, with excellent views of the surrounding mountains.
October and November can vary. Nights tend to be crisp and skies star-studded, perfect for a glass of wine by the fireside or a bonfire party.
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