Where to stay in Ecuador
From glorious mansions converted into elegant boutique hotels in some of Ecuador’s finest colonial cities and remote eco-lodges in the heart of the Amazon basin, Ecuador enjoys a terrific variety of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets. Here you will find some of our personal favourites from the various destinations we feature, but if you have a specific accommodation in mind contact our expert consultants who would be happy to incorporate these into your itinerary for you.
1. Anakonda Riverboat
Get a taste of life in the Amazon on board the luxurious riverboat Anakonda. Built in 2013, Anakonda was designed to explore this diverse region of Ecuador. While Ecuador is only home to 2% of the entire Amazon, this still equates to miles and miles of rainforest to explore. Home to Yasuni National Park (designated a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve in 1989), the park contains over 200 species of butterfly, 150 species of amphibian, 596 species of bird, 121 species of reptile and 200 species of mammal. 18 suites make up the accommodation on board Anakonda: four deluxe suites with private balconies & 14 standard suites (four interconnected) each with a French balcony. All suites have large panoramic windows and include air conditioning. The sun deck is home to a hot tub, lounge chairs and panoramic views; deck three is home to the El Dorado bar and lounge; deck two is home to the boutique; and deck one is the location of the dining room. There is plenty of outdoor space from which to watch the sun rise and set, and there is an al fresco lounge for casual dining in the open air.
2. Hacienda Zuleta
The Hacienda Zuleta is a unique hotel based in the midst of a huge colonial working farm which produces quinoa, wheat, milk, cheeses as well as many more fresh organic crops and wild stock. The property has been owned by the previous president of Ecuador (Galo Plaza) and his family for over 100 years; many of the original fixtures are still in place and the recipes used in their restaurant have been passed down through the family ensuring delicious dishes are served at each mealtime. Each of the rooms are en-suite and some even have private access to the courtyard beside the property.
3. Mashpi Lodge
Powered 100% by its own hydroelectricity and surrounded by exquisite rainforest bio-diversity its hard to believe the contemporary, sophisticated and intimate Mashpi Lodge is just 2 and a half hours from Ecuador’s bustling capital of Quito. Set in a 1,200 hectare private reserve on the western slopes of the Andes, your stay here is all about experiencing the wonders of the natural world. Designed to combine the highest levels of service and comfort, this modern lodge somehow manages to blend with its natural surroundings, becoming a luxury hideaway in the clouds. Floor to ceiling windows make sure you don’t miss a thing, reminding you of your complete immersion in this lush wonderland.
3. Napo Wildlife Centre
Located within the Yasuni National Park, deep in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, Napo Wildlife Centre is an intimate lodge which provides guests with a truly authentic Amazon experience. The lodge contains just 10 large, luxury cabanas, providing its guests with optimum comfort and space, whilst emphasising the beauty of the natural surroundings. Napo wildlife centre is perfect for the explorer who wants the adventure of the Amazon, but in a private and comfortable setting.
4. Sacha Lodge
Contained within 5000 acres of private ecological reserve, Sacha Lodge provides guests with a pristine rainforest sanctuary. The lodge’s cabins are a comfortable size and are all made out of natural materials. At Sacha lodge you are in a fantastic position to enjoy a true jungle adventure within a comfortable and safe environment. Previous guests have even reported sightings of wildlife including monkeys, toucans and agoutis right from the comfort of their cabins! Hammocks are also available, providing you the perfect chance to lounge around, enjoying the natural surroundings and keep an eye out for any wild fauna!
5. Chilcabamba Lodge
Built from local materials, Chilcabamba is cozy, unpretentious and charming. Views from every room are beautiful and make the most of the lodge’s incredible setting. The main lodge is welcoming, with cozy nooks to relax, books to curl up with and stunning views of Cotopaxi on a clear day. We also have a game room, an outdoor bonfire, a self-guided trail with local flora and a unique viewpoint of the most beautiful volcano in Ecuador: Cotopaxi. Complementary Wi-Fi and parking are also available. At night, you can sit by the campfire and gaze at the stars.
6. Casa Gangotena
Casa Gangotena is a spectacularly-well restored historic mansion displays a fascinating contemporary design and modern technologies sit alongside antiques and fine furnishings. Art Nouveau combines with Neo-Classical architecture and massive efforts have been made to preserve the buildings original details, including painted ceilings. Overlooking Plaza San Francisco in the San Roque neighbourhood of Quito’s historic centre Casa Gangotena has an envious position, in a great location for exploring the city.