Best hotels in Ecuador

Somewhere between the Pacific and the Andes, amongst the cacao plantations and rolling green hills, Hacienda la Danesa is a slice of the simple life. Sitting on a working farm, where everything from chocolate to honey is produced, the family has created a 'deep green' space to immerse yourself in and become reacquainted with nature. You'll get an inside look at rural living in Ecuador (try making your own chocolate!), explore the fields and further on horseback, and wander through the grounds where lime-green parrots flutter from branch to branch. Dinner can be in the secluded location of your choice, lit by a billion stars.

Sitting under the gaze of the winged Virgin Maria statue of El Panecillo and with a melange of historic buildings and bustling streets, capital city Quito is nothing sort of enchanting. It's down one of these busy streets that you'll find La Casona de la Ronda, a quiet (thank you, 18th-century walls) oasis in the middle of the hubbub. It also happens to be one of the oldest Spanish houses in Quito, evident in the intricately-painted walls, pretty balconies and pithy artwork. Endlessly cute and characterful, the location is also ideal for a city exploration, and the beautiful squares of Plaza Independencia and Plaza de San Francisco are only 10 minutes away on foot.

Built 3,600 metres above sea level, Hacienda EL Porvenir boasts a spectacular alpine setting on the slopes of the Ruminahui Volcano. Sitting on a sustainable working ranch, the house has a storybook feel with thatched roofs, and a Smartie-red and blue exterior. There are hiking routes aplenty, taking you into the pretty páramo grasslands or deep into the mountains and, when you return, there are artisanal teas and soothing treatments at the spa. You can even take the glamping experience to new heights in a machai (designed like an Andean hut) and wake up to euphoric views that will take your breath away.

Ecuador is home to just 2% of the Amazon, but this sliver of jungle is one of the most biodiverse destinations on the planet. Could there be a better way to explore its iconic tributaries than on a high-end river boat? We think not! Step aboard the Anakonda for a three- or seven-night trip down the emerald-lined waterways, where unique aquatic creatures and iridescent birds are your constant companion. Moving at a calm and peaceful 12 knots, the three-storey river boat has ample space for reclining as you take in the fabled scenery. And, when you're ready to dig a little deeper, there are motorized canoes at the ready.

Built in 1680, Hacienda Piman is one of the oldest haciendas in northern Ecuador. With the classic feel of a country house, it is set in gardens designed by the mind behind Versailles Palace's greenery and flowers and filled with architectural relics from every era. The house itself is a consortium of details from the last few centuries, with a chapel from the 19th and painted eaves from the 20th. The scenery is striking - and you'll have plenty of opportunity to enjoy it on horseback rides, hikes into the forest and train journeys through the mountains. Of course, there are also inviting rocking chairs to recline in as the birdlife twitters...

Named after the earliest known ancestor of all mammals, fish and reptiles, Pikaia Lodge is imbued with the Galapagos' sense of history, nature and utterly wild beauty. Inside the uber-contemporary rock and glass building, you'll find 'evolutionary' decor and a chic, understated design. Built on an extinct caldera within a 31-hectare giant tortoise reserve, you'll feel like the only soul around for miles -and you often will be. This sentiment continues on adventures to the archipelago's incredible diving spots, clandestine beaches and hiking trails. Oh and did we mention it's the only Relais & Chateaux property in the Galapagos? Magic all round.

The Hilton lives up to its world-famous reputation with pristine interiors, mod design choices and plenty of space to breathe. It also happens to be only 10 minutes from Guayaquil's sprawling Malecon 2000, where you can take in the river views, pop into a museum or two, and snack on the best local cuisine. At the hotel, you'll never order the same thing twice thanks to the bevy of dining spots serving anything and everything from grilled seafood by the pool to scrumptious northern Italian dishes. Rooms are plush and cool, styled with the same finesse that runs throughout the hotel. Whether it's a stopover on your way to the Galapagos or a longer sojourn, the Hilton has you covered.

Among Quito's most urban and modern hotels, Swissotel is a polished spot in the city's Floresta neighbourhood. The interiors tap into a tropical style with buffed wooden panelling and sprawling windows, while also featuring an eclectic taste - the Japanese restaurant has a life-size Samurai suit of armor. The hotel isn't far from Quito's Old Town, where you can spend hours admiring its splendid architecture and historic plazas and getting a taste of Quito's delightful cuisine. At sunset, look towards the ethereal figure of Virgin Maria sitting high on Panecillo Hill and feel the city's past swell around you.

Cruising along the tributaries of the Amazon, the Manatee is a modern-day iteration of a classic river boat - and at a leisurely pace of 12 knots, you'll have plenty of time to take in the dazzling surrounds. The rooftop deck provides sun loungers to recline on as you spot birdlife of every colour, manatees gliding smoothly through the water, and the communities who have called the jungle home for centuries. There's also plenty of opportunity to explore the depths of the Amazon, kayaking down tranquil rivers and hiking into the trees where your guide will decipher any call or crack that breaks through the silence.

Many say that cruising the waters of the Galapagos is the best way to experience the enchanting islands, and if you're on board the super-stylish M/C Endemic, we say that would definitely be true! The twin-hull catamaran is one of the newest vessels cruising the coast and its naturalist guides are well-seasoned and ready to share paradise with you. Sailing on the M/C Endemic is smooth as butter and you'll be able to soak up the scenery from every cabin and well-cushioned lounger. Of course, there's also snorkelling, swimming and exploring in a glass-bottomed kayak.

Enter an entirely different world, where the views are mind-blowing and the wildlife is found almost nowhere else on Earth. We're talking about a luxury cruise through the Galapagos Islands, during which you'll wake each morning to a sparkling ocean view and the buzz of seeing something for the very first time. Ocean Spray offers a variety of itineraries from four-day sojourns to a whopping two-week journey. During your time on board, you'll be made to feel at home by the amazing team, whether it's welcoming you aboard with warm towels and fresh passion fruit juices, or leading you through lava tunnels and forests.

With 19 islands, over 40 islets and dozens of unique ecosystems that have formed over centuries of isolation, The Galapagos Islands are quite simply, extraordinary. So why not explore as far and wide as you can on board the Seaman? With gleaming white exteriors and a twin-hull design, the vessel combines comfort, scenery and style. Itineraries range from three to seven nights, during which you'll have the chance to visit unblemished shores and life-filled waters where iguanas swim and tortoises are larger than life (literally!). And you'll learn about it all from your naturalist guide who's with you every step of the way.

Around 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands are sprinkled across the Pacific Ocean creating a dreamscape of mist-enveloped volcanoes, surreal wildlife, and scenery that takes your breath away. Your journey through the Enchanted Isles will be perfectly complemented by the glinting white Yacht La Pinta. You'll quickly settle into the stylish suites and find a favourite spot on the observation deck, watching slick dolphins swimming alongside and listening for the distant splash of a whale. During the trip, you'll enjoy trips to nearby islands to spy techni-coloured birdlife and epic dives - and you may just come nose-to-nose with a seal!

The Hotel Casa Gardenia is a B&B Boutique that combines the old style (a 1700 colonial house) with a modern architecture and decoration, creating a unique concept in the city. Being located in a residential neighbourhood in Quito, guests can enjoy security and rest, in addition to the convenience of being able to reach many places without having to take means of transport.

Having a rich history that dates back to the middle of the 15th century, Hotel Casa Alquimia invites guests to experience the hotels historic atmosphere, while enjoying a peaceful and comfortable stay. There is a great monument just behind the hotel. Every morning guests can enjoy their breakfast looking at the "Panecillo” and soak up magnificent views from the roof, where they can admire Santo Domingo Church and part of the southside of the city.

Casa San Marcos is a luxury hotel, decorated with antique furniture and has an historic essence. This hotel is visited by celebrities, artists, politicians, people of culture and those who like to savor the charm of the past. Be treated like royalty, in a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and enjoy all the environments including a good wine cellar and a cafeteria where you can get a taste of the hotels gastronomy.

La Rábida Hotel Boutique is a charming building that was built in 1940. It was originally conceived as a colonial Hacienda House in a traditional neighborhood in the city of Quito. Throughout the years this location has been refurbished to welcome visitors from all over the world who are looking for a cozy, safe and comfortable place to stay with a personalized and excellent service. Guests can enjoy the style and warm hospitality of La Rábida Hotel Boutique, which offers an inviting retreat in the heart of the city. Classic elegance and contemporary style are combined, for comforting accommodations.

The Go Quito Hotel is a sustainable hotel with the most spectacular views of Quito and a design inspired by the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Andes.

Escape the ordinary at JW Marriott Hotel Quito, where you'll relish magical sites and unrivaled experiences. This hotel is located amidst enchanting destinations such as Santo Domingo Church, the House of Ecuadorian Culture and Old Town, known for its cobbled streets, colonial churches and historic plazas. Dive into the heart of the city, then relax with a rejuvenating facial and massage at the hotels spa, featuring a fitness center and resort-style outdoor pool. The upscale rooms and suites provide for your ultimate relaxation with luxurious bedding, scenic city views and 24-hour room service. Order a meal to your door, or enjoy a chic dining experience at Bistro Latino and La Hacienda. A lobby and sushi bar is also offered at the hotel as well as a casual café.