Stretching across northern Ecuador, Imbabura Province is a highland landscape of volcanoes, crater lakes and rolling countryside, with Otavalo’s colourful market and Ibarra’s whitewashed streets adding plenty of character. Our pick of the best places to stay includes historic haciendas and peaceful country retreats, with Hacienda Zuleta being our favourite for its luxurious rooms, antique interiors, horse riding and excellent local cooking.
Scroll down the page for our full selection of recommended hotels in Imbabura or, for a look at different areas, read our guide to the best places to stay in Otavalo.
A luxurious hacienda filled with antique furniture, Hacienda Zuleta makes a charming base for exploring Otavalo and the surrounding countryside. Saddle up for a horse ride through the hills, then return for hearty Ecuadorian cooking and a relaxed evening back at the hotel.
Set in Ecuador’s Imbabura Province, Hacienda Pinsaqui has traditional rooms with wooden floors, antique furnishings and colourful local textiles. The restaurant serves fine dining, while couples can book a heritage-filled suite. There’s plenty to do outdoors too, from guided treks and horse riding to Ecuadorian cooking classes.
Set near the shores of San Pablo Lake, Hacienda Cusin is a cosy retreat filled with antique furniture, open fireplaces and traditional Ecuadorian character. Settle in with hearty local cooking, explore the surrounding countryside, or simply enjoy the peaceful setting and mountain views.
La Mirage Garden Hotel & Spa makes a peaceful country retreat in Cotacachi, surrounded by lush gardens where peacocks roam freely. Cosy rooms have garden views and warm red and gold interiors, while the spa offers massages and an indoor pool. There are also four restaurants, plus tennis and guided horse rides.
Imbabura Province does not have an international airport, so you need to fly to Quito International Airport, then jump on a bus or taxi to Otavalo.
Want to hire a car for complete independence? We recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars.
Or, contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.
The Hotel Guru is a curated hotel recommendation platform that delivers expert-selected luxury and boutique properties straight to your inbox. No spam. Only sweet updates about the latest hotel openings and the best places to stay.
Otavalo
This traditional hacienda is located in the heart of the Imbabura Province of Ecuador. The hotel's classically dressed rooms feature wooden floors, antique furniture and local textiles; book a honeymoon suite for beautiful heritage features. Enjoy fine dining at the hotel restaurant; a chic getaway.
Otavalo (Otavalo)
A lovingly converted estate boasting an enviable location amongst the Ecuadorian Sierra. Charming rooms are traditional in style with antique furniture, warm hues, local textiles and fireplaces. Feast on regional cuisine and spend days in the great outdoors. A truly authentic experience.
Ibarra
This hotel sits within a colonial-era hacienda in Ibarra, Ecuador. Guestrooms in the manor house feature wooden floors, heritage-style furnishings and crisp, white linens; book a private villa for multiple bedrooms and a terrace. Enjoy fresh local produce at the restaurant; a charming country stay.
Cotacachi (Cotacachi)
A former hacienda converted into a stunning hilltop hotel, surrounded by a lush tropical garden. Each cosy, yet bright, room comes with its own garden view and living area. Wander the gardens, relax at the spa and choose between the hotel's four gourmet restaurants.
Otavalo (Comuna Zuleta)
A luxury converted ranch packed full of charm. Gloriously light rooms feature domed floor to ceiling windows, parquet flooring and antique furniture. Spend days riding horses or exploring the land on foot before returning to superb homemade Ecuadorian dishes. A truly authentic rural experience.
