Overview
Journey back in time
Hacienda San Agustín de Callo is a historic hotel located in the heart of Ecuador's Andean highlands. The property is tucked away in a valley between the Cotopaxi and Tungurahua volcanoes.
The hacienda's history dates back to the 15th century when it served as an Inca palace. Later, the property was acquired by the Spanish conquistadors who built a colonial-style mansion on top of the Inca ruins. Today, the hacienda retains much of its original architecture and is considered a national treasure by the Ecuadorian government.
Today, San Agustín is a boutique hotel that offers guests an immersive glimpse into Ecuador's rich history and culture. The rooms are spacious and furnished with timeless antiques. Most rooms have a fireplace to keep you warm on chilly Andean nights. The restaurant serves traditional Ecuadorian dishes using locally sourced ingredients.
A fine feature of the hacienda is its Inca chapel, which has been preserved and is still used for religious services. The chapel's walls are adorned with intricate murals depicting scenes from the Inca empire, providing a fascinating account of the region's pre-Columbian history.
San Agustín de Callo has eleven bedrooms. Each bedroom is uniquely designed and furnished to reflect the rich history and culture of the Andean region. Some of the rooms are located in the main building, which is a restored Inca fortress, while others are in the newer annex building.
Facts
At a glance
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11 rooms
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Pre-Columbian history
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Easy access to the Cotopaxi National Park
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Working Farm
Experiences
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![quilotoa crater in lake ecuador]()
Quilotoa Lake
Enjoy a full-day visit to Quilotoa crater lake in the most western volcano in the Ecuadorian Andes. The 3-kilometre (2 miles)-wide caldera was formed by the collapse of this volcano after a catastrophic eruption about 800 years ago. The lake has a stunning greenish colour due to dissolved minerals. Once you arrive at the crater lake, you can hike around the rim or, if you are physically fit, hike down to the lake edge, descending about 2400ft. Return to the top by mule on very steep and sandy trails.
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![Hacienda San Agustín de Callo horse]()
Horse Riding
Ride along Inca paths and explore Andean towns, pine forests and grassy plains in the foothills of volcanoes.
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![Hacienda San Agustín de Callo bike]()
Mountain Biking
Use the haciendas excellent bikes to take a thrilling downhill cycle from the Cotopaxi refuge at 4,800 metres above sea level. Back at the farm, other paths lead to rose plantations, virgin forest and ancient lava flows.
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
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Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
What makes us different
Why Niarra
Niarra Travel is a forward-thinking travel company headquartered in London born out of a passion to do things differently.
In Swahili, a Bantu language spoken by millions in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa, the name Niara means "with utmost purpose" and our team are united by a passion for exploration and a belief that the right kind of travel can make the world a better place.
Our Travel Researchers are here to create incredible trips with a positive impact for you.
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Unforgettable experiences
Creating your trip is entirely collaborative and our Travel Researchers are here for every step.
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Positive impact
Curated sustainable experiences and accommodation that maximize the benefits to local people and place.
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Fairness and transparency
An open, competitive pricing structure that ensures more money goes to where it's needed in the destination.
