Experiences

• Discover the forests

  Visit one of the few remaining ancient forests of Polylepis Tree. Polylepis trees are a group of about 30 species of trees and shrubs that are native to the high-altitude regions of the Andes mountains in South America, from Venezuela to Argentina. They are also known as paperbark trees or Queñoa trees. This ancient forest is a paradise of biodiversity with swathes of grasslands fringed by a dense forest speckled with wild orchids and chuquiragua, the national flower of Ecuador.

• Quitsato Sundial

  We highly recommend a visit the Quitsato Sundial. The sundial was created in 2006 by a team of Ecuadorian astronomers and engineers led by Santiago Andrade. The sundial was designed to accurately mark the equator line with extraordinary precision and serve as a tribute to the ancient knowledge and astronomical achievements of the Inca civilization.

• Birdwatching

  Be amazed by the birds that frequent these beautiful gardens. From tiny hummingbirds to soaring eagles, the sound of birdlife in the morning and late afternoon is enchanting. For serious birdwatchers, we can arrange a specialist guide to spot birdlife in the valleys beyond the Hacienda.

• Inca Trails

  Walk in the footsteps of the Incas and discover ancient Inca trails that criss-cross these valleys and hills. With towering Andean peaks and gentle valleys to explore, this landscape will suit all types of walkers from die-hard mountain climbers to leisurely ramblers.

• Cochasquí Ruins

  Cochasquí is a small Pre-Columbian archaeological site. Cochasquí is known for its impressive complex of pyramids, mounds, and stone monoliths. The site was built by the Quitu-Cara civilization around 900 CE and was an important ceremonial centre.