Galápagos & Andes Safari: Ecuador

Casa Gangotena, Quito

Casa Gangotena occupies a pivotal place in Quitos historic heart, at the corner of Plaza San Francisco. Its history stretches back to the time of the Incas when, according to the early Spanish chroniclers, in the 15th century the square featured Inca temples, one of them on the site of the present house. Situated in a newly-restored historic mansion overlooking Plaza San Francisco, the three-story Casa Gangotena features 31 rooms, a showcase of eye-catching style, contemporary design, antiques, fine furnishings, modern technologies and quintessential comforts. Beautifully and eclectically-appointed, the hotel invites its guests to explore and to relax, whether in the dining room, glassed-in patio, garden redolent with the perfume of native flowers, wood-paneled library, or atop its panoramic third-floor terrace.

Galápagos Safari Camp, Santa Cruz Island

The Galápagos Archipelago is one of the last places on the planet to be relatively untouched by man. With only three percent of the landmass inhabited, the islands support a remarkable ecosystem and have one of the planets most important marine reserves. Galápagos Safari Camp is a new way to see the Galápagos; the eco-luxury tented camppioneering in Latin Americafollows the African safari tradition in which guests enjoy total comfort under canvas while experiencing nature in its purest form. The stylish central lodge is perched on a hill with panoramic views from its spacious veranda. Guests can relax in the lounge and bar with their cozy fireplace or savor the local and international dishes created by creative chefs with home-grown produce in the dining room.

Hacienda Zuleta, Tamayo y Colon

Zuleta is a colonial working farm of 4,000 acres that has belonged to the family of Mr. Galo Plaza Lasso, a former president of Ecuador, for more than 100 years. It was chosen as one of the world's Top Ten Finds by Outside magazine and named as one of the best Ecuador Hotels by National Geographic Traveler. The Hacienda has 15 beautifully decorated bedrooms, all with their own fire place; antique gardens along with cozy living and reading rooms offer a peaceful atmosphere. Delicious and traditional Ecuadorian cuisine is offered daily, prepared with organic vegetables, trout and dairy products produced at the Hacienda. For extracurricular activities guests may consider horseback riding, a ride in a horse-drawn carriage, or a visit to the Condor Huasi Project that works for the rehabilitation of the Andean Condor.