Hacienda Zuleta is a hotel I just cannot stop raving about. If you’re thinking of a trip to Ecuador, this one has got to make your list!

Hacienda Zuleta is special because….

A lot of hotels say that they have designed their spaces so that you feel “at home.” Hacienda Zuleta takes it 5 steps further – it truly IS a family home! More specifically, it is the family home of two prior Ecuadorian Presidents and the hotel is still family run. It also remains a working hacienda – complete with cattle, horse stables, and cheese production.

Presidential Library at Hacienda Zuleta

I stayed in the cozy “Margarita Room” and then actually met Margarita (a first daughter of Ecuador) when she was walking her dog on property. Down the hall from my room was the Presidential Library where I at President Galo Plaza Lasso’s desk.

Each evening in the library there is a selection of 10-15 different house cheeses to try (all fabulous, especially the Parmesan), and each morning you have the chance to saddle up and ride the many, many acres surrounding the house. There is a condor rescue project on hacienda land and you may even get lucky enough to spot a speckled Andean bear.

Lunch and dinner are served family style and could not have been better. To top it off, they’ll keep the wine flowing as late as you want.

Hacienda Zuleta is right for you if…

You’re looking to experience another side of Ecuador and experience a wide range of activities. It’s a wonderful get away to relax after a busy trip to the Galapagos or time spent in Quito. Along the way, you can make stops at the equator and at an Ecuadorian rose farm to learn how they’re grown and shipped all around the world.

If you’re an equestrian or like to hike, this is also a spectacular place to stay for a few days. The property would be perfect for family get togethers, weddings, and more. Children are also welcome!

Horseback riding at Hacienda Zuleta

This hotel might not be right for you if you prefer standard American hotel chains with large, contemporary rooms. Each room at Hacienda Zuleta is different and filled with antiques and local furniture. It’s beautifully done, but you won’t find the clean modern lines of a Four Seasons here.

Ecuador is worth visiting because…

Ecuador just might be my new favorite place in South America! The diversity of animal species, things to do, cultures, and food here is mind blowing for such a small country. To put it in perspective – Ecuador was named one of only 17 mega diverse countries in the world, yet it’s smaller than Nevada.

17% of the world’s bird species can be found here, and Ecuador boasts the most diversity of hummingbirds in the world. And hello…. The Galapagos are part of Ecuador!

In addition to the biodiversity, the cloud forest, and the Andes mountains – the experiences you can have here are completely diverse as well. From snorkeling with sea lions to tasting the most expensive chocolate in the world, there’s really something for everyone here.

Throw in gorgeous colonial buildings like my favorite hotel in Quito (Casa Gangotena), a rich history, and a safe environment – and it’s hard to see how anyone could dislike a visit here.

Bell & Bly Travel can organize everything above, and more. By planning with us you’ll get perks and VIP treatment thrown in because of our personal relationships. Send us a note today!