Dating from the 17th century, the historic Hacienda Zuleta lies in the spectacular Andean mountain range of Ecuador at 9,600 feet above sea level, and only two hours north of Quito and one hour from the famous indigenous market town of Otavalo.
Hacienda Zuleta is a beautiful 17th century, working farm turned family run boutique hotel that has been in the family of the former Ecuador President Galo Plaza Lasso for over 100 years.
Meals are enjoyed family style, cooked by local chefs making authentic Ecuadorian cuisine from produce grown in Zuleta’s own organic farm – picture delicious, warming, homely dishes.
There is plenty to do within & around the Hacienda grounds – explore hidden trails by foot, bike or on the Hacienda’s own breed of horses. See and learn about endangered species at their Condor Huasi centre or perhaps learn a local craft like embroidery or Ecuadorian cookery.
Most rooms also have a wood burning fire - a cosy and intimate atmosphere
Hacienda Zuleta is a 4,000 acre colonial working ranch that has belonged to the family of a former Ecuadorian president for more than 100 years. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Andes Mountains and fertile farming valleys, Zuleta is a great option for lovers of horse riding or walking. Although more remote than other haciendas in the Otavalo area, the effort is worth it to see the Ecuadorian countryside in its full glory.
As the structure of the original colonial building could not be drastically changed, every room has its different shape and charm. All are individually decorated with antiques, authentic family pictures and hand embroidered linens - again transmitting the feeling of a private home.
Local farm workers are only too pleased to show guests the dairy and cheese factory, organic garden, tree nursery, trout farm, an embroidery workshop owned by the indigenous community, and the successful condor-recuperation and raising project.
Wonderful Ecuadorian cuisine is created from fresh ingredients from Zuleta's organic garden and farm, and is carefully prepared by hand. Other facilities include lovely gardens, cosy living and reading rooms, horse-riding, mountain bikes and horse drawn carriage rides.
When to visit
On a hike or horseback ride to the Condor Huasi rehabilitation project you may be lucky enough to see wild condors or even a bespectacled bear.
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Enquire NowLocated between 2870 and 3050 metres above sea level in the Andean mountains of Northern Ecuador and 110 kilometres north of Quito.
Hacienda Zuleta is located about 2-hours North East of Ecuador’s capital, Quito and 45 minutes from Otavalo.
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For a truly memorable family holiday, this trip taking in both Ecuador’s urban and rural charms, along with the magical wildlife wonderland of the Galapagos Islands, is a fabulous, shared experience for all ages, tastes, and interests. Stand in the Middle of the World, swim with sea lions and turtles, trek volcanic landscapes and enjoy exploring the fabulous Otavalo countryside on foot, bike, and horseback.
Ecuador Uncovered
One of the most diverse nations on the planet, tiny Ecuador not only straddles the equator but includes the mighty Andes, steamy Amazon and nine national parks. This Ecuadorian odyssey offers an amazing variety of landscapes and experiences. Enjoy the colonial charms of Quito and Cuenca, explore the rainforest, bird, and wildlife of the Amazon, relax amid the rural charm and warm hospitality of a hacienda stay, and discover the volcanoes of the Central Valley where age-old traditions prevail.
Epic Galapagos & Ecuador
Taking in Ecuador’s stunning capital city, mist-shrouded cloud forest, magical Galapagos Islands, and glorious landscapes of the Otavalo countryside, this is a trip of exciting contrasts. From colonial plazas, rainforest hikes, snorkelling with sea turtles and cantering along magnificent mountain trails, a lifetime of memories awaits.
Galapagos & Ecuador Highlights
This magnificent trip offers boundless adventure, magnificent wildlife encounters, immense geographical diversity, and a series of unforgettable experiences. Explore the cultural highlights of UNESCO-listed Quito. Trek the trails and paddle a canoe in the steamy Amazon rainforest. Swim with sea turtles, sea lions and sharks and hang out with giant tortoises and iguanas in the Galapagos Islands. All before relaxing in a stylish hacienda deep in the Ecuadorian countryside.
Galapagos Island Hopping
Sign up for some of the world’s most spectacular sights and experiences. Discover Ecuador’s colonial history, captivating culture, and UNESCO-listed landmarks, before island hopping in the enchanted Galapagos Islands. Explore other-worldly volcanic landscapes. Meet giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, and marine iguanas. Swim alongside reef sharks, sea turtles, penguins, and sea lions, before relaxing back on the mainland with a stay at a fabulous hacienda set in the glorious Andean landscape.
Birding at Hacienda Zuleta
Home to an incredible diversity of birds, Ecuador is a wonderful destination for birding enthusiasts and Otavalo is no exception. Its location within the dramatic Andes means it is home to the Andean condor amongst other rare species.
Hiking and trekking at Hacienda Zuleta
With trails to suit a range of interests and fitness levels, hiking at Hacienda Zuleta can be tailored to you. Head out with a guide or go it alone and discover the picturesque surroundings of the Otavalo countryside.
Horse riding at Hacienda Zuleta
Notorious for its wonderful scenery and beautiful horses, Ecuador's highlands are a joy to explore by horseback. Embark on an equestrian adventure through Otavalo's beautiful countryside, surrounded by mountains, lakes and waterfalls for dramatic views.
Mountain biking at Hacienda Zuleta
Descend the rugged hills of Otavalo's countryside by mountain bike for an adrenaline-fuelled afternoon. Staff at Hacienda Zuleta can drop you at one of the surrounding hilltops so you are free to follow one of the many exhilarating trails.
Otavalo Traditional Market & Handicraft Tour
A tour around Otavalo market, famous for its handicrafts and for being one of the finest markets in Latin America. The region’s craft heritage is displayed in all it’s finery here, so expect woollen scarves, handbags and ponchos.
