North and South Andes through the “Avenue of the Volcanoes” Explore Ecuador’s Historic Haciendas
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What's included
- Lunch
- English speaking guide
- private transportation
- all entrance fees
- Tips for guide and driver
- personal expenses
- drinks
- Horse Back riding
Experience historic haciendas, ranches and Andean traditions.
Escape the city for an unforgettable journey through Ecuador’s highlands, where legendary estates meet volcanoes, valleys and living countryside culture.
Explore the character of Hacienda Zuleta, El Porvenir, Pinsaqui or Cusin through a program tailored to the day. Peaceful nature walks, birdwatching and authentic local hospitality make this experience ideal for families, couples, photographers and nature lovers.
Step into the highlands’
living heritage.
Each historic estate reveals a different side of the Ecuadorian Andes: colonial architecture, family stories, productive farms and landscapes shaped by the Avenue of the Volcanoes.
Historic haciendas
Visit Zuleta, El Porvenir, Pinsaqui or Cusin according to the selected route.
Nature & birdlife
Enjoy scenic walks, highland views and rewarding birdwatching opportunities.
Local flavors
Savor a traditional Ecuadorian lunch prepared in a characterful country setting.
Optional riding
Explore trails, páramo grasslands and volcanic scenery on horseback at extra cost.
A culinary journey through Andean Ecuador.
Traditional cuisine at the haciendas opens a window onto one of South America’s best-kept gastronomic traditions. Andean ingredients, Indigenous heritage, biodiversity and contemporary creativity come together in a memorable countryside lunch.
The meal is included and becomes part of the cultural experience—an invitation to taste the landscape as well as see it.
Volcanoes frame every horizon.
Many haciendas lie near celebrated natural areas such as Cotopaxi National Park. The Avenue of the Volcanoes brings together peaks including Cotopaxi, Cayambe, Imbabura and Antisana in one of Ecuador’s most iconic landscapes.
Keep watch for the Andean condor. With a wingspan of around 3.3 metres (10.5 feet), this emblematic bird may be seen soaring above the highlands.
Learn the rhythms of
Andean country life.
Traditions, music, gastronomy and daily life turn this day trip into a genuine cultural immersion.
Come prepared for a full day in the highlands.
- Bring a jacket; afternoon rain is possible.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Use sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.
- Altitude is approximately 2,850 m / 9,350 ft.
- Temperatures range from 10–25°C / 55–70°F.
Ready to step
back in time?
Reserve a private cultural tour, or ask about an overnight stay and luxury accommodation at one of Ecuador’s historic country estates.
Reserve your tour- At a Glance
Andean Ranches
- Duration: Full-day (8 hours)
- Accessibility: Senior-friendly transport and manageable walking paths.
- Certified Expert Guides: English-speaking guides from the Samay Adventures team.
- Pick-up service: Hotels and locations within the Quito city district.
- Effortless Exploration: Comfortable pacing without the rush.
- Cultural Immersion: Ecuador’s volcanoes, haciendas and Andean traditions.
More about this tour
More about this tour
Enjoy a traditional lunch at one of these historic ranches while experiencing the tranquility and beauty of the Ecuadorian Andes. Overnight stays and luxury accommodations are available upon request.
Travel tips
- Afternoon rain is possible; bring a jacket.
- Departures are available every day.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.
- Altitude: approximately 2,850 m / 9,350 ft.
- Temperature range: 10–25°C / 55–70°F.
