Positive Impact collection

Cotopaxi, Ecuador

Chilcabamba Mountain Lodge

Adventure at your doorstep

Aerial view of rural houses surrounded by greenery with overcast lighting.

Wake up to panoramic vistas of Cotopaxi Volcano

Located just an hour and a half from Quito and offering direct access to the vast landscapes of Cotopaxi National Park, Chilcabamba Mountain Lodge is the ideal gateway to adventure in the heart of the remote Andean highlands.

At an elevation of 3,480 meters above sea level, you’ll wake up among the clouds, surrounded by the breathtaking sight of not one, but four majestic volcanoes. With only thirteen rooms and a capacity for up to 30 guests, Chilcabamba maintains a uniquely intimate atmosphere, making every stay feel personal and exclusive.

Days here unfold with thrilling outdoor adventures. The lodge serves as the perfect base camp for exploring the magnificent surrounding countryside – whether on foot, horseback or mountain bike. Hike through the rugged terrains of Cotopaxi National Park, go horseback riding across wide-open meadows or biking along scenic trails, there’s something to suit every adventure seeker. After a day of exploration, unwind by a bonfire with a traditional canelazo in hand, all while taking in one of the best viewpoints of the volcanoes.

The lodge offers several room categories, with the mountain-view rooms being a favorite for obvious reasons – offering unparalleled vistas of the surrounding peaks right from your window.

Highlights

Access hiking, cycling and wildlife experiences right at your doorstep

Wake up to breathtaking views of the Cotopaxi Volcano and lush Andean landscapes

After a day of adventure, unwind in the serene atmosphere of the lodge, with its cozy common areas and outdoor spaces

Immerse yourself in the region’s natural beauty and diverse ecosystems, from high-altitude paramo to volcanic terrain

Learn about the traditions of the local indigenous communities and their connection to the land

Embark on guided treks, horseback riding excursions, or wildlife tours within Cotopaxi National Park

Aerial view of rural landscape with houses, green fields, and distant mountains at sunrise.

Cozy bedroom with rustic decor and view of autumn landscape through glass doors.

Two people gazing at a mountain landscape from a porch wrapped in blankets.

A rustic cabin with large windows and a stone-built outdoor bench in a grassy area.

Man with binoculars looking at a mountainous landscape across a lake.

Dining table with a view of mountains through a large window at dusk.

Rural houses with a snow-capped volcano in the background at dusk.

Person with a wine glass foreground, feet propped near a campfire with others in background.

Hikers walking in a grassy valley with distant rolling hills.

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The impact of your stay:

Your stay at Chilcabamba Lodge directly supports the local community and the environment. By partnering with local businesses and providers, your visit helps create jobs and boost the local economy. Since 2015, the team at Chilcabamba has grown and they have expanded their partnerships with several local service providers, ensuring that your experience also benefits the people who make it special.
Through collaborations with organisations like The Nature Conservancy and FONAG, they focus on protecting the Pita River, a vital water source for Quito. During your stay, you’ll learn about climate change and the importance of preserving the highland ecosystem, and you’ll be part of efforts like restoring native plants to protect the environment for future generations.

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Our favourite hacienda accommodation in Ecuador. This 17th century property was formerly the residence of a much-loved president and remains in his family to this day. The illustrious history of the property shines through in every room, many decorated with antiques dating back to the original owners.

The libraries and communal areas are replete with photographs, paintings and exotic furniture, many made as gifts from abroad to the former president. Far from being a museum piece the hacienda is still very active with more than 2,000 hectares of pastureland; mainly used for cattle and horses (the stables have around 100 horses) as well as a trout farm. The estate produces its own cheese onsite and there is also an interesting program for the rehabiliation of Condors.

The surrounding countryside and nearby village are beautifully picturesque and relaxing. There are fifteen well-appointed rooms and service is helpful and friendly. A great deal of care is taken to ensure that you make the most of the wonderful surrounds and there are a number of activities possible including horse-riding, mountain biking, hiking, birdwatching and visits to the local community with its own weaving workshops.

The hotel is located some distance from the Otavalo Market itself (just over an hour) so it makes most sense to make the visit to the market on the journey to (or from) Quito.