The Avenue of the Volcanoes begins just outside Quito’s suburban sprawl. Immense cones of rock tower on all sides like sentinels. You will catch glimpses of Ruminahui, the mighty Chimborazo (6,310m) and the perfect cone of Cotopaxi as you travel through, depending on the mood of the weather.
The countryside surrounding Quito is dotted with country house haciendas. Many of these inns are owned and run by Ecuadorian families providing guests with a service and experience which is second to none. These rural retreats, many located in dairy farming ‘cowboy country’ are ideal for perhaps exploring on horseback or seeing some of the country’s most colourful markets/rose farms.
With its privileged position on the equator, with sun and regular rains too, much of the countryside around Quito has also been transformed by the flower industry. Close to the haciendas we feature, you can admire the myriad of colours of Ecuador’s roses and flowers. You may also (rather randomly) spot some of the many fields of broccoli which is another big export product of Ecuador.
Cotopaxi National Park
Cotopaxi National Park, home to the perfect snow-capped cone of Cotopaxi at nearly 6000m high, it is the world's second-highest active volcano and it is breathtaking. Climbing Cotopaxi would be a great highlight of any trip. More...
Saquisilí Market
Considered the most important market in Ecuador by the country's economists and located next to Latacunga. It is quite a spectacle. More…
Nestled in the foothills of Cotopaxi volcano, the historic Hacienda San Agustin de Callo is the perfect base to explore the National Park and surrounding Andean villages. More…
The seventeenth century, Hacienda La Cienega, is the oldest and most splendid colonial style hosteria in the Cotopaxi province, Ecuador and it has belonged to the descendents of Marques of Maenza since the seventeenth century. There are 34 comfortable rooms. This really is a grand place to stay, with its sweeping Eucalyptus lined-drive and immaculate gardens with waterfalls all around. More…
The Black Sheep Inn is a rustic and award-winning ecolodge situated at 3200m in the Ecuadorian Andes, just outside the village of Chugchilan. Chugchilán is located well off the beaten track, four to five hours from Quito and three hours off the Pan-American Highway on spectacular winding roads. The charm of the Black Sheep Inn is in its size with just nine private double rooms the hotel is small and catered to individuals needs. More...
