Ecuador has plenty of great hotels. But staying in alternative accommodations, from hip hostels in colonial cities to romantic haciendas in the highlands and dreamy cloud forest lodges, often adds something special to the trip. Read on for unique suggestions for where to stay in Ecuador.
Quito’s Colonial Hostels & Boutique Sleeps: A Deep Dive into Ecuadorian Hospitality
Let’s begin with a clarification, shall we? In the captivating country of Ecuador, the term hostal carries a broader connotation than one might initially assume. It can encompass a spectrum of establishments, ranging from the most basic and humble of guesthouses to the more refined and comfortable small hotels. And then, of course, there are the hostels, those bastions of budget travel, offering dormitory-style accommodations that cater primarily to backpackers, a concept familiar to travelers from North America and Europe. However, in the vibrant and historically rich city of Quito, a city that proudly boasts a UNESCO-listed Old Town and a remarkable array of budget-friendly accommodation options that are among the finest in South America, the distinction between these categories becomes delightfully blurred. In fact, some hostels, specifically those geared towards the backpacking community, often present rooms and facilities that surpass those found in many conventional hotels, offering a unique and often surprising level of comfort and amenities.
One shining example of this trend is the Hump Day Hostel, arguably the newest and most appealing hostel to grace the cityscape. This establishment boasts an impressive selection of boutique-style private rooms alongside the more traditional dormitories, ensuring there is something to suit every traveler’s preference and budget. Guests can unwind and soak in the atmosphere on the hostel’s charming roof terrace, prepare their meals in the well-equipped guest kitchen, or socialize in the inviting bar and lounge area. Additional perks include a complimentary breakfast to kickstart your day, a round-the-clock reception to cater to your needs at any hour, and individual privacy screens with conveniently placed reading lights for each bed, allowing for a comfortable and personalized experience. The Hump Day Hostel represents a refreshing and innovative approach to budget accommodation, particularly for those who have previously encountered more rudimentary and rustic lodging options during their travels through South America, offering a welcome respite and a touch of luxury without breaking the bank.
Another hostel that promises an unforgettable experience is the venerable Secret Garden, a stalwart of the city’s thriving backpacking scene. What sets this hostel apart is its magnificent roof terrace, which offers breathtaking and panoramic views of the entire Old Town, making it one of the most sought-after locations in the city for travelers looking to connect with fellow adventurers. The Secret Garden regularly hosts a variety of social events, provides opportunities for volunteering within the local community, and even offers Spanish lessons, making it an ideal hub for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the local culture and forge meaningful connections with both locals and other globetrotters. The sense of community and the abundance of opportunities for cultural exchange make the Secret Garden more than just a place to sleep; it’s a launchpad for unforgettable experiences and lasting friendships.
Moving towards the other end of the accommodation spectrum, Ecuador’s capital city also showcases a selection of distinctive boutique hotels, each offering a unique and personalized experience. In the perpetually popular La Mariscal district, the Anahi Boutique Hotel presents a particularly intriguing concept: each of its rooms is individually themed, drawing inspiration from the diverse topographical regions that make up the rich tapestry of Ecuador’s landscape. This innovative approach to interior design allows guests to embark on a virtual journey through the country, experiencing the unique ambiance and character of each region without ever leaving the comfort of their room. From the coastal charm of the Pacific to the Andean highlands and the lush Amazon rainforest, the Anahi Boutique Hotel offers a truly immersive and unforgettable stay.
Cloud Forest Lodges: Immersing Yourself in Ecuador’s Ethereal Realm
Ecuador’s cloud forest represents the country’s fourth distinct topographical zone, nestled between the coastal plains, the towering mountains, and the dense jungle. It occupies a unique position, residing below the expansive altiplano, those high mountain plains that stretch across the landscape, and above the dense and humid rainforest proper. The cloud forest benefits from its elevated altitude, which helps to mitigate the presence of mosquitoes, a common nuisance in the lower jungle regions, making it a more comfortable and enjoyable destination for travelers. Furthermore, its accessibility is a major advantage: unlike venturing into the depths of the jungle, there is no need to embark on lengthy plane journeys or boat rides to reach the most captivating areas of the cloud forest. For most visitors, the primary draw of the cloud forest lies in its breathtaking biodiversity, an astounding array of wildlife that can be observed and appreciated within just a couple of hours’ drive from the bustling city of Quito.
To cater to the growing interest in this unique ecosystem, a specialized type of accommodation known as the cloud forest lodge has emerged, designed to provide travelers with the optimal experience for appreciating the region’s abundant flora and fauna. These lodges differ significantly from their counterparts found in the jungle. Cloud forest lodges generally boast higher quality facilities, including reliable WiFi connectivity, a valuable amenity for modern travelers. Moreover, they typically offer the flexibility of one- or two-night stays, whereas many jungle lodges often require a minimum stay of three days, making the cloud forest lodges a more convenient option for those with limited time.
Mindo, located northwest of Quito, is widely recognized as the quintessential destination for experiencing the wonders of Ecuador’s cloud forest. Within this region, you’ll discover the most innovative and visually striking cloud forest accommodation, the renowned Mashpi Lodge. This state-of-the-art lodge, nestled within its own private reserve, features impressive floor-to-ceiling windows that maximize the panoramic views of the surrounding jungle, allowing guests to feel truly immersed in the natural environment. The area is teeming with an extraordinary variety of birdlife, with over 400 different species readily observable right on the lodge’s doorstep, making it a paradise for birdwatching enthusiasts. A network of trails extends from the lodge, inviting guests to explore the surrounding forest, and the famous Dragonfly, an ingenious cable car system, transports passengers through the forest canopy, offering a unique and exhilarating perspective on the cloud forest ecosystem. It’s an unforgettable way to witness the incredible biodiversity from above.
While the Mashpi Lodge offers a luxurious spa experience, for those seeking a more natural and immersive experience, a trail leads down to the reserve’s stunning Magnolia Waterfall, creating an all-natural Jacuzzi setting. This provides an opportunity to relax and rejuvenate in the pristine waters of the cloud forest, surrounded by the sounds of nature and the beauty of the surrounding landscape. It’s a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
Highland Haciendas: Stepping Back in Time in the Ecuadorian Highlands
In the days of yore, agriculture in the altiplano of the Ecuadorian Highlands was primarily managed through a system of haciendas, large country estates that played a pivotal role in the region’s economy and social structure. These substantial and scenically located colonial complexes were often fully functioning farms, contributing significantly to the agricultural output of the region. While many haciendas continue to operate as working farms today, some have undergone transformations into hotels, offering a unique and captivating accommodation option that provides a glimpse into Ecuador’s rich history and rural heritage.
Nestled at the foot of the majestic Cotopaxi volcano, the Hacienda El Porvenir, with its salmon-pink rustic chic farmstead, offers a warm and inviting introduction to the altiplano lifestyle. The hacienda’s rooms and suites are adorned with wood-beamed ceilings and exude traditional character, transporting guests back to a bygone era. For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, the Masai rooms, with their thatched roofs, pay homage to the traditional lodging used by the Quechua people, the local Indigenous population, offering a culturally immersive experience. From the hacienda, guests can embark on multi-day guided treks to the four volcanoes visible on the horizon, or explore the rural landscape at a more leisurely pace on horseback rides, immersing themselves in the natural beauty of the surrounding area. A visit to a hacienda is a worthwhile experience, even if you can only spare a single night, providing a unique opportunity to connect with Ecuador’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes.
There’s no need to participate in a formal tour to explore the countryside surrounding the haciendas. Many establishments offer mountain bike rentals and provide valuable advice on local hiking trails, empowering guests to independently discover the natural beauty and cultural treasures of the region at their own pace. This allows for a more personalized and authentic experience, fostering a deeper connection with the environment and the local community.
Thermal Spas in the Mountains: Rejuvenation Amidst Andean Majesty
As you ascend from Quito and traverse the Andes mountains towards the Oriente, the Amazon rainforest, you’ll reach the turn-off to the idyllic town of Papallacta, celebrated as the home of Ecuador’s most acclaimed natural thermal waters. The Termas de Papallacta spa complex presents a blend of upscale and basic amenities. The accommodation, restaurant, and spa area are undeniably charming, offering a relaxing and comfortable experience. However, the outdoor poolside facilities are more straightforward and functional. The overall atmosphere is undeniably surreal as you immerse yourself in the dozen or so pools, where water temperatures reach a soothing 104°F. The stark contrast with the outside air temperatures, which can be significantly chillier, adds to the unique sensory experience. Towering Andean peaks flank the pools on three sides, creating a breathtaking backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation. With a wealth of spectacular hiking trails nearby, Papallacta is a destination that warrants at least a couple of days to fully appreciate its natural beauty and therapeutic offerings.
In addition to the Termas de Papallacta complex, other hotels located along the approach road to Termas de Papallacta also feature their own thermal pools, providing a wider range of accommodation options and experiences. One such example is Hosteria Pampallacta, offering guests the opportunity to indulge in the therapeutic benefits of the thermal waters within a comfortable and welcoming setting.
Rainforest Retreats: Discovering the Amazonian Heart of Ecuador
Ecuador boasts the most easily accessible jungle region within the entire Amazon Basin, making it a unique and compelling destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. While a visit to the rainforest may require more logistical planning than a trip to the cloud forest, it promises an unforgettable experience that will undoubtedly become a highlight of any Ecuadorian vacation. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to witness wildlife that is rarely seen elsewhere on the planet: playful giant river otters engaging in their fishing pursuits, piranhas lurking in the blackwater creeks, vibrant parrots and macaws congregating to feed, and, for those incredibly fortunate, the elusive jaguars prowling through the dense vegetation.
Rainforest retreats in Ecuador encompass a diverse range of options, from luxurious lodges that offer unparalleled comfort and amenities to simple thatched-roof huts that provide a more rustic and immersive experience. However, most establishments offer dedicated multi-day packages, designed to provide guests with a comprehensive exploration of the rainforest ecosystem. These packages typically include guided wildlife observation tours, thrilling riverboat trips, and immersive jungle forays, ensuring that visitors have ample opportunities to encounter the region’s unique flora and fauna. It’s highly recommended to venture as deep into the jungle as time permits, as the rewards are immeasurable. Opting for three-night/four-day packages allows for a more immersive experience, granting access to the primary jungle, which is significantly more magical and abundant in wildlife than the secondary jungle located closer to human settlements.
Within Parque Nacional Yasuní (Yasuní National Park), one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, a riverboat journey from Coca down the Río Napo unveils a realm of remarkably preserved primary jungle. The Napo Wildlife Center, a well-established and high-end lodge, stands as the sole accommodation option within the park’s boundaries. The approach to the lodge involves a serene canoe paddle up a blackwater tributary, a truly magical moment that provides ample opportunities for wildlife viewing. A typical program at the Napo Wildlife Center includes visits to parrot and macaw clay lick feeding grounds, interactions with a local rainforest community, and guided hikes through the jungle to strategically located observation towers that allow for unparalleled views of the birdlife darting through the forest canopy.
Numerous other lodges situated nearby on the Río Napo offer similar programs and excursions, providing a range of options for exploring the Ecuadorian Amazon. A journey down the Río Napo to Nuevo Rocafuerte and the border of Peru is an adventure in itself. Excursions can be arranged in the town of Coca.
Galápagos Boutiques: Unique Stays in a Wildlife Paradise
In a destination widely regarded as the world’s premier location for marine wildlife observation, the Galápagos Islands, accommodation often takes a backseat to the allure of the surrounding natural wonders. However, a small yet noteworthy boutique accommodation scene has emerged, offering visitors unique and memorable experiences that complement the islands’ breathtaking wildlife.
On Isla Isabela, the largest of the Galápagos Islands, yet one of the least populated by humans, lies the exquisite La Casa de Marita. Situated at the far end of the Puerto Villamil beachfront, it emerges from behind the swaying palm trees, offering stunning views of the pale sands and the azure ocean. The hotel boasts sumptuous rooms adorned with striking artwork, creating a visually appealing and comfortable environment. A restaurant and a sea-facing terrace further enhance the experience, providing opportunities for relaxation and culinary enjoyment. However, the unique selling point of La Casa de Marita is undoubtedly its location: guests often feel as though they have this breathtaking island all to themselves, allowing for a truly immersive and personalized experience. The menagerie of memorable fauna, from giant tortoises to playful penguins, undoubtedly contributes to the desire to extend stays beyond just one night.
The new and award-winning Ikala Galápagos Hotel on Isla Santa Cruz prioritizes sustainability. In addition to a terrace restaurant that offers breathtaking views of the Puerto Ayora harbor and a beautiful swimming pool, the hotel is surrounded by shady gardens and powered by solar energy, minimizing its environmental impact. For the best giant tortoise viewing on Isla Isabela, head to the volcano of Volcán Alcedo, located in the north-central region of the island. This area is a haven for these magnificent creatures, providing visitors with an unparalleled opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat.
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