Ecuador farm stay tours visit haciendas & working farms
Sample itinerary farm stay tour
Ecuador has many working farms and agritourism possibilities, this short tour gives you an introduction to Ecuador farm houses and haciendas. We will visit one of the most important farms in Ecuadorian history, Hacienda Zuleta, in the past it was home to late Galo Plaza one of Ecuador´s most important presidents, today his family has turned it into one of the most beautiful boutique hotels and continue to work it as a farm with fine cheese factory, a Condor rehab project and great horseriding possibilities amongst other fun things to see and do.
Day 1 - Quito
International flight into Quito. Transfer in to your boutique hotel from the airport.
Day 2 - Quito - Otavalo Indian Market - Hacienda Cusín - Hacienda Zuleta.
Today we depart north to the Awakening Valley, home of the Otavalo Indians. At the foot of the Imbabura Volcano lies the valley of Otavalo. Time to explore the Otavalo Indian market. Afterward, choose between two options. For those more interested in native cultures, visit the sacred waterfall and pre-Inca solar calendar near the village of Peguche, where musical instruments and woolen tapestries are made; San Antonio de Ibarra, known for its woodcarvings; and other artisans' pueblos. For those more interested in nature, drive up to Cuicocha Lake and hike around this flooded volcanic crater. Lunch at the Hacienda Cusín. In the afternoon, walk through the countryside a part of the way to the Hacienda Zuleta. Dinner and overnight in the Hacienda Zuleta
Day 3 - Hacienda Zuleta
Tours of the entire farm, on foot or on horseback, are a typical part of every guest's stay. Of special interest to many guests are the archaeological sites, working farm, hand-embroidery workshop, condor rehabilitation project, trout farm, cheese factory and stables. The hacienda is as famous for its horses and riding program as it is for its history and hospitality. Lunch at the hacienda. Dinner and overnight in the Hacienda Zuleta.
Day 4 - Hacienda Zuleta - Cayambe - Quito
Drive along San Pablo Lake toward Cayambe. On the way, visit a rose plantation and an historic mill, the Molino San Juan, where you will have lunch. Arriving in Cayambe, see how its traditional biscuits and cheese are made, then continue to the "Middle of the World" Monument. Returning to Quito under the shadow of the Cayambe Volcano, arrive at your boutique hotel in downtown Quito. Guided walk to the Café Tianquez. Return to the hotel.
Day 5 - Quito - ?
Return home or join a trip extension into the Choco rainforest or a Galapagos yacht cruise or Amazon expedition boat trip
Trip Notes
The above is a sample itinerary prepared for a small family tour program. It can be customized to fit the needs and special interests of your travellers.