Find Your TripFree Catalog 
Array
(
    [ActivityID] => 27
    [Name] => Cultural Discovery
    [Primary] => 0
)
Ecuador Hacienda Zuleta & Otavalo Market Extension
cheese - Ecuador Hacienda Zuleta & Otavalo Market Extension
food - Ecuador Hacienda Zuleta & Otavalo Market Extension
horses - Ecuador Hacienda Zuleta & Otavalo Market Extension
women - Ecuador Hacienda Zuleta & Otavalo Market Extension
courtyard - Ecuador Hacienda Zuleta & Otavalo Market Extension
mountain - Ecuador Hacienda Zuleta & Otavalo Market Extension
valley - Ecuador Hacienda Zuleta & Otavalo Market Extension
condor - Ecuador Hacienda Zuleta & Otavalo Market Extension
hacienda - Ecuador Hacienda Zuleta & Otavalo Market Extension

Ecuador Hacienda Zuleta & Otavalo Market Extension Tour

Cultural Exploration in the Highlands of Ecuador

Experience the beauty of Ecuador's Highlands on this 3-day (or 2-day) cultural journey to Hacienda Zuleta and the Otavalo Market — a perfect extension to our Galapagos itineraries! See creative artisans at work as you explore Otavalo's vibrant market, then head to the beautiful 16th-century Hacienda Zuleta, where you'll stay in comfort for two nights (or one night). Located on 4,000 acres, Zuleta is a tranquil retreat and a working farm, supporting both the local community and wildlife conservation projects. Explore Zuleta's scenic trails on foot, by bike, or on horseback then return for fresh Ecuadorian-style home cooking and a restful evening in this historic hacienda.

3 Days

From: $1,360

$500 discount per child (younger than 12 years old sharing room with parents)

Experience the beauty of Ecuador's Highlands on this 3-day (or 2-day) cultural journey to Hacienda Zuleta and the Otavalo Market — a perfect extension to our Galapagos itineraries! See creative artisans at work as you explore Otavalo's vibrant market, then head to the beautiful 16th-century Hacienda Zuleta, where you'll stay in comfort for two nights (or one night). Located on 4,000 acres, Zuleta is a tranquil retreat and a working farm, supporting both the local community and wildlife conservation projects. Explore Zuleta's scenic trails on foot, by bike, or on horseback then return for fresh Ecuadorian-style home cooking and a restful evening in this historic hacienda.

Array
(
    [0] => Array
        (
            [DisplayOrder] => 1
            [HighlightText] => 
Delight in the work of local artisans at the legendary Otavalo Market

            [Description] => Delight in the work of local artisans at the legendary Otavalo Market
            [Image] => 
            [VideoLink] => 
        )

    [1] => Array
        (
            [DisplayOrder] => 2
            [HighlightText] => 
Follow trails on foot, by bike and on horseback and marvel at the spectacular Valley of the Condors

            [Description] => Follow trails on foot, by bike and on horseback and marvel at the spectacular Valley of the Condors
            [Image] => 
            [VideoLink] => 
        )

    [2] => Array
        (
            [DisplayOrder] => 3
            [HighlightText] => 
Enjoy the comforts of beautiful Hacienda Zuleta, an authentic 16th-century hacienda and working farm

            [Description] => Enjoy the comforts of beautiful Hacienda Zuleta, an authentic 16th-century hacienda and working farm
            [Image] => 
            [VideoLink] => 
        )

    [3] => Array
        (
            [DisplayOrder] => 4
            [HighlightText] => 
            [Description] => cheese
            [Image] => https://mts-wp-uploads.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/trips/EZO_gallery10.jpg
            [VideoLink] => 
        )

    [4] => Array
        (
            [DisplayOrder] => 5
            [HighlightText] => 
            [Description] => food
            [Image] => https://mts-wp-uploads.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/trips/EZO_gallery9.jpg
            [VideoLink] => 
        )

    [5] => Array
        (
            [DisplayOrder] => 6
            [HighlightText] => 
            [Description] => horses
            [Image] => https://mts-wp-uploads.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/trips/EZO_gallery2.jpg
            [VideoLink] => 
        )

    [6] => Array
        (
            [DisplayOrder] => 7
            [HighlightText] => 
            [Description] => women
            [Image] => https://mts-wp-uploads.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/trips/EZO_Gallery4.jpg
            [VideoLink] => 
        )

    [7] => Array
        (
            [DisplayOrder] => 8
            [HighlightText] => 
            [Description] => courtyard
            [Image] => https://mts-wp-uploads.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/trips/EZO_Gallery5.jpg
            [VideoLink] => 
        )

    [8] => Array
        (
            [DisplayOrder] => 9
            [HighlightText] => 
            [Description] => mountain
            [Image] => https://mts-wp-uploads.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/trips/EZO_gallery7.jpg
            [VideoLink] => 
        )

    [9] => Array
        (
            [DisplayOrder] => 10
            [HighlightText] => 
            [Description] => valley
            [Image] => https://mts-wp-uploads.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/trips/EZO_gallery1.jpg
            [VideoLink] => 
        )

    [10] => Array
        (
            [DisplayOrder] => 11
            [HighlightText] => 
            [Description] => condor
            [Image] => https://mts-wp-uploads.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/trips/gallery2_ecu_condor_1400x788_55p.jpg
            [VideoLink] => 
        )

    [11] => Array
        (
            [DisplayOrder] => 12
            [HighlightText] => 
            [Description] => hacienda
            [Image] => https://mts-wp-uploads.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/trips/EZO_gallery11.jpg
            [VideoLink] => 
        )

)

Highlights

  • Delight in the work of local artisans at the legendary Otavalo Market
  • Follow trails on foot, by bike and on horseback and marvel at the spectacular Valley of the Condors
  • Enjoy the comforts of beautiful Hacienda Zuleta, an authentic 16th-century hacienda and working farm

Ecuador Hacienda Zuleta & Otavalo Market Extension

Start: Quito, Ecuador  End: Quito, Ecuador

Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

Itinerary

  • Journey from Quito to the Otavalo Market & Hacienda Zuleta

    Day 1

    This morning your guide will drive you north to visit the famous Otavalo Market - one of the largest and most colorful traditional markets in Ecuador! This is a unique opportunity to see Otavaleños selling an impressive array of locally made artisanal handicrafts. The main weekly market takes place on Saturday mornings, and a smaller market operates daily the rest of the week. Next, head to the stunning 16th-century Hacienda Zuleta, with possible stops at the villages of Agato or Peguche on the way. Upon arrival at the hacienda, take a tour of the house to learn about its historical significance and enjoy an evening of home-cooked Ecuadorian fare.

    Accommodation: Hacienda Zuleta

    Transportation: 3-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Lunch, Dinner

  • Explore the Valley of the Condors

    Day 2

    Wake for a delicious breakfast, then head to the Valley of the Condors. This spectacular valley - considered one of the best places in Ecuador to observe condors - is part of Zuleta and can be reached on foot, by bike, or even on horseback. Zuleta runs an important captive condor program to help protect the endangered species, but you may also see magnificent wild condors and Andean bears. Along the way, your guides will explain the historical significance of the area and show you several pre-Inca pyramids and burial sites called "Caranquis". After lunch, visit the nearby community of Zuleta and see fine embroidery work and the community library - a project supported by the hacienda.

    Accommodation: Hacienda Zuleta

    Activity: Wildlife watching & cultural touring

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Return to Quito

    Day 3

    After breakfast, follow a choice of scenic walking trails, explore the museum, or savor some of Ecuador's finest cheese - produced right here at Hacienda Zuleta! Mountain biking and horseback riding are also available for an additional cost. On your return drive to Quito this afternoon, enjoy a stop at the Equatorial Line monument near Cayambe. Arrive in Quito around 5pm.

    Transportation: 2.5-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Read More Read Less

Why Travel With Us?

  • MT Sobek has been operating trips in Ecuador for over 50 years, working with the best local guides for an immersive experience.

  • This is one of our most popular extension combinations! We've got the logistics covered to pair this trip perfectly with our Galapagos adventures.

  • We know because we go. Hacienda Zuleta and the Otavalo Market offer important cultural insights into this region of Ecuador, and are among our favorite insider experiences.

Dates & Prices

  • Go Private
  • Go Custom
  • Inclusions

Go Private

Go Private

Gather your favorite travel companions to share an MT Sobek adventure on an easy-to-book Private departure.

Call or email us to get the ball rolling.

*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.


Looking for a private family adventure?

This trip can accommodate guests with a
minimum age of 6.

Private Trip Pricing:

2024 Pricing

2 guests from $1,895 per person double occupancy

3 guests from $1,650 per person double occupancy

4 to 8 guests from $1,595 per person double occupancy

*Seasonal rates may apply.

Additional Costs:

Private pricing excludes potential additional costs such as internal airfare, single supplement, or any park fees that may be required for the trip.

*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.

Make Your Own Dates in These Months

  • January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
    Make My Own Date

Go Custom

Create Your Very Own Adventure

Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.

When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.

*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.

Start Planning

Inclusions

Price Includes

  • Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
  • All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
  • All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
  • Snacks and water between meals
  • Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
  • Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
  • Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
  • Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
  • All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
  • Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
  • Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
  • Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
  • Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Baggage transfers and porterage

Price Does Not Include

  • International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
  • Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
  • Gratuities for MT Sobek guides, guide-drivers and Hacienda staff
  • Travel Protection Program
  • Personal expenses
  • Horseback riding and mountain biking (available at additional cost at Hacienda Zuleta)

Contact An Expert

800-974-0300

Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.

Your Guides

The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.

Local Tour Guide .

Local Tour Guide .

We work with only the most experienced and knowledgeable local guides on our trips. You will be in excellent hands with a fully licensed and accredited local guide who will share their expertise in everything from history and architecture, to culture and traditions, the best local cuisine, activities and crafts, or even shopping. Local guides live, breathe, and love their trips because as locals they are an integral part of their communities. Their connections run deep and pride in their piece of the world is contagious.

Array
(
    [itinerary] => Array
        (
            [0] => Array
                (
                    [DayFrom] => 1
                    [DayTo] => 1
                    [Headline] => Journey from Quito to the Otavalo Market & Hacienda Zuleta
                    [ActivityOverview] => 
                    [EstimatedLength] => 
                    [ActivityLevel] => 
                    [ItinBlock] => 
This morning your guide will drive you north to visit the famous Otavalo Market - one of the largest and most colorful traditional markets in Ecuador! This is a unique opportunity to see Otavaleños selling an impressive array of locally made artisanal handicrafts. The main weekly market takes place on Saturday mornings, and a smaller market operates daily the rest of the week. Next, head to the stunning 16th-century Hacienda Zuleta, with possible stops at the villages of Agato or Peguche on the way. Upon arrival at the hacienda, take a tour of the house to learn about its historical significance and enjoy an evening of home-cooked Ecuadorian fare.

                    [Breakfast] => 0
                    [Lunch] => 1
                    [Dinner] => 1
                    [Travel_Type] => 3-hour private van transfer 
                    [Quotation] => 
                    [Quotation_Attribution] => 
                    [Quotation_Location] => 
                    [Itinerary_Location] => 
                    [Latitude] => -0.158
                    [Longitude] => -78.455
                )

            [1] => Array
                (
                    [DayFrom] => 2
                    [DayTo] => 2
                    [Headline] => Explore the Valley of the Condors 
                    [ActivityOverview] => Wildlife watching & cultural touring
                    [EstimatedLength] => 
                    [ActivityLevel] => 
                    [ItinBlock] => 
Wake for a delicious breakfast, then head to the Valley of the Condors. This spectacular valley - considered one of the best places in Ecuador to observe condors - is part of Zuleta and can be reached on foot, by bike, or even on horseback. Zuleta runs an important captive condor program to help protect the endangered species, but you may also see magnificent wild condors and Andean bears. Along the way, your guides will explain the historical significance of the area and show you several pre-Inca pyramids and burial sites called "Caranquis". After lunch, visit the nearby community of Zuleta and see fine embroidery work and the community library - a project supported by the hacienda.

                    [Breakfast] => 1
                    [Lunch] => 1
                    [Dinner] => 1
                    [Travel_Type] => 
                    [Quotation] => 
                    [Quotation_Attribution] => 
                    [Quotation_Location] => 
                    [Itinerary_Location] => 
                    [Latitude] => .231
                    [Longitude] => -78.239
                )

            [2] => Array
                (
                    [DayFrom] => 3
                    [DayTo] => 3
                    [Headline] => Return to Quito
                    [ActivityOverview] => 
                    [EstimatedLength] => 
                    [ActivityLevel] => 
                    [ItinBlock] => 
After breakfast, follow a choice of scenic walking trails, explore the museum, or savor some of Ecuador\'s finest cheese - produced right here at Hacienda Zuleta! Mountain biking and horseback riding are also available for an additional cost. On your return drive to Quito this afternoon, enjoy a stop at the Equatorial Line monument near Cayambe. Arrive in Quito around 5pm.

                    [Breakfast] => 1
                    [Lunch] => 1
                    [Dinner] => 0
                    [Travel_Type] => 2.5-hour private van transfer
                    [Quotation] => 
                    [Quotation_Attribution] => 
                    [Quotation_Location] => 
                    [Itinerary_Location] => 
                    [Latitude] => -0.155
                    [Longitude] => -78.461
                )

        )

    [ActivityHighlight] => Cultural touring of markets and villages, and short guided hikes around Hacienda Zuleta. Mountain biking and horseback riding opportunities are also available, and activities can be tailored to your interests.
    [Trip_Level] => 2
)

Activity Level

This trip is rated activity level 2. Cultural touring of markets and villages, and short guided hikes around Hacienda Zuleta. Mountain biking and horseback riding opportunities are also available, and activities can be tailored to your interests.
Learn more about activity levels here.

Activity Snapshot

Day 2

Wildlife watching & cultural touring

Accommodations

Stay in comfort at the historic Hacienda Zuleta, a 16th-century home nestled on 4,000 acres - one of the world's "Top Ten Finds," according to Outside magazine.
Hacienda Zuleta
Hacienda Zuleta
Comfortable Hotel

Experience the wonders of Hacienda Zuleta, an authentic 16-century hacienda located on a 4,000-acre working farm in the Andes. This historic home features antique family heirlooms, hand-embroidered linens, and cozy fireplaces in each of the 15 guest rooms - as well as a range of modern amenities. Cradled in a valley at 9,600' above sea level, Zuleta provides an exceptional and authentic Ecuadorian experience, with opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and local exploration.

Weather

The temperature in the highlands is generally in the 60's °F during the day and falls to the low 50s F at night; rain is common October to May.

 
Jan
Mar
May
Jul
Sep
Nov
Quito 
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Quito
66
49
66
49
66
49
67
47
68
47
67
48

FAQs

When and where should I arrive?

We recommend that you arrive in Quito the day before the extension begins. Most flights from the U.S. arrive mid-afternoon to late at night. We are happy to assist with booking a hotel for you in Quito, either in the city center or at the airport. Airport transfers are included between your Quito hotel and Quito airport.
Will I need to book an extra hotel night in Quito?

You may need an additional hotel night in Quito before or after your visit to Hacienda Zuleta, depending on your connecting flight.

Should I book an extension for before or after my visit to the Galapagos?

Either works well logistically, but if possible we recommend doing the extension first, before the Galapagos.
Are insects a problem in the Highlands of Ecuador?

Insects are typically not an issue at the altitudes you'll be at in the Highlands.
What is the difference between the 3-day and 2-day itinerary?

The shorter 2-day itinerary is the same as the first two days of 3-day program, but with an afternoon return to Quito for your onward journey.
Is the itinerary subject to change?

Yes. If Day 3 is on a Saturday or Tuesday, then the order of the activities changes and you will drive directly to Zuleta on Day 1 and visit the Otavalo Market on Day 3.

Similar Trips to Ecuador Hacienda Zuleta & Otavalo Market Extension Tour

Ecuador Galapagos Private Adventure Cruise on Endemic Tour

Ecuador Galapagos Private Adventure Cruise on Endemic Tour

Enchanted Isles Exploration Aboard a Spectacular Catamaran
  • Level 2
  • 11 days

Inspiration to Explore

more articles

5 Interesting Facts About the Galapagos Islands You May Not Know

5 Interesting Facts About the Galapagos Islands You May Not Know

Nestled 600 miles off Ecuador’s coast in the Pacific Ocean, the Galapagos Islands beckon adventurers […]
read more

  • Adventure Experts
  • Nov 2023
Top 7 Most Exciting Places to Visit in Spring 2023

Top 7 Most Exciting Places to Visit in Spring 2023

The countdown to spring 2023 has begun and it’s time...
read more

  • Adventure Experts
  • Feb 2023
10 Best Romantic Adventures for Active Travelers

10 Best Romantic Adventures for Active Travelers

Who said adventure and romance can’t go together? Romance...
read more

  • Adventure Experts
  • Jan 2023

Guest Reviews

"I have taken 12 trips with MT Sobek. Each has left a positive imprint on me-widening my view of the world and its peoples."

Jane B.
MT Sobek Guest

"I've taken six MT Sobek trips and they have all exceeded my expectations. The staff, the food, the logistics and the communications have always been exceptional. Thank you for being my "go to" adventure travel company!"

Margaret I.
MT Sobek Guest

Trustpilot