There’s no place we can think of that offers a better way of immersing yourself in Ecuadorian culture and wildlife conservation than Hacienda Zuleta in the Andean highlands north of Quito.
Explore the Andes and protect wildlife on your Ecuador holiday
Adventure begins the moment you venture out, whether on horseback or by mountain bike, through forests and highland pastures. Surrounded by towering volcanoes, this journey leads you to Condor Huasi, a ground-breaking conservation initiative dedicated to safeguarding Ecuador’s most emblematic Andean species, including the majestic Andean condor and the spectacled bear.
Wildlife conservation in action: get involved at Condor Huasi
Thanks to its captive breeding programme, Condor Huasi has been instrumental in pulling this magnificent raptor back from the brink of extinction in Ecuador. Just two reproductive pairs of condors currently exist in the country, and both live in the project’s aviary. In recent years, three healthy condor chicks have been born.
Here, conservation goes beyond observation. Guests are invited to engage meaningfully, witnessing fieldwork, learning from local experts, and contributing to ongoing research and habitat protection. One of the most captivating moments is reviewing camera trap footage captured deep within the forest, offering rare, spontaneous glimpses into the lives of wild creatures, such as the recently sighted ocelot – a hopeful sign of ecological renewal.
Conservation of the spectacled bear in the Andes
The spectacled bear is South America’s only bear. These charming and wide-ranging creatures are – contrary to common conception – fond of more than just marmalade sandwiches. Sadly, though, its numbers are declining at an alarming rate due mainly to habitat loss.
In Zuleta, they have found a safe haven. To date, 61 individuals have been identified using camera traps, and we can send you out with rangers to monitor the traps and, fingers crossed, also gain a live sighting.
"A stay at Hacienda Zuleta with your family offers a wonderful opportunity for young minds to become engaged with the idea of giving back."
Traverse the Ecuadorian Andes by horse or hiking trail
When not immersed in wildlife discovery, Zuleta’s 4,000 acres of trails and open pastures are yours to explore. Traverse dramatic mountain landscapes on Zuleteño horses, a sturdy local breed developed for high-altitude endurance. Hike through pine forests past ancient pre-Inca mounds and beside cascading waterfalls. For a slower pace, horse-drawn carriage rides offer a tranquil way to absorb the beauty of the Andean highlands.
Cultural travel in Ecuador: live local traditions at Zuleta
At Zuleta, life is deeply rooted in tradition. You might find yourself in an embroidery workshop, seated beside local women as they teach delicate stitches passed down through generations, or learning to prepare Andean recipes in a hands-on cooking class, using produce straight from the hacienda’s organic gardens. This experience offers an authentic exchange with people proud to share their way of life.
Where to stay on holiday in the Ecuadorian Andes – Hacienda Zuleta
Once the home of former Ecuadorian president Galo Plaza Lasso, this 17th-century estate blends rustic charm with understated elegance, standing today as a beacon of community-based conservation. Still owned and operated by the Plaza family, Hacienda Zuleta is more than a historic landmark; it is a model of sustainable tourism, cultural preservation, and environmental stewardship.
In addition to offering gracious and natural hospitality, and a wide range of outstanding activities from horseback and cycle rides through the estate to farm-to-plate cookery classes, Zuleta plays a key role in local conservation and culture through its foundation.
Its threatened paramo moorlands, forests, cliffs and mountainsides are home to an astonishing variety of wildlife including puma, pudu and jewel-like hummingbirds.
Your stay here is far more than a retreat; it’s an invitation to become part of a legacy. Each visit directly supports the Galo Plaza Lasso Foundation, advancing efforts to protect endangered wildlife, empower local communities, and sustain traditional Andean ways of life.
Engage the entire family on your luxury Ecuador holiday
Families will feel especially welcome here. Children are encouraged to roam freely across the estate’s open fields, join in with daily farm life, and engage with nature and local customs in hands-on ways.
When is the best time to travel to Ecuador’s Andean Highlands?
The best time to visit Ecuador’s Andean Highlands is during the dry season, which typically runs from June to September. During these months, the weather is more stable, with sunny days and clear skies that are ideal for hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife watching. That said, the region’s year-round mild climate means you can visit any time of year with good preparation.
If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, the shoulder months (April to May and October to November) can be especially rewarding. These periods often bring bursts of vegetation and increased animal activity, along with fewer visitors.
When you book through us, you do so with the confidence that comes from our deep-rooted expertise in crafting truly transformative travel. With trusted local partnerships, personalised service, and seasoned guides, we ensure your journey to Hacienda Zuleta is simply unique. Hacienda Zuleta features in our expertly-curated wildlife journey to Ecuador and the Galápagos, “In Darwin’s Footsteps”. Explore the itinerary to see how this experience can fit into a wider journey through South America, our contact one of our Latin America specialists to start planning your own tailor-made journey.
