Call us on
    Exit
    Exit

    Waterfalls, cloud forest and cacao plantations a short drive from Guayaquil

    Heading east of Guayaquil, and just before you hit the mighty Andes mountains, you’ll find yourself in Ecuador’s midwest lowlands. Despite being just 74km from the country’s biggest city, it is a quiet and secluded region and perfect for exploring Ecuador’s natural beauty.

    Our guests will stay at the lovely Hacienda La Danesa property, which is located just outside the small town of Naranjito. The hacienda has a number of organised excursions that allow you to explore the beautiful surroundings and immerse yourself in the Ecuadorian wilderness.

    You are in easy reach of La Esperanza Cloud Forest Reserve, where you’ll find beautiful orchids, bromeliads and ferns as well as refreshing waterfalls. You can also discover the Manglares-Churute Ecological Reserve, home to howler monkeys and numerous water birds such as herons, egrets and ibises.

    After a day of exploring, the hacienda is the perfect place to retreat to. The property itself is beautiful, the restaurant serves delicious farm-to-table food, and there are numerous activities to get involved in, from chocolate-making to beekeeping. And, although it feels wonderfully secluded, you’re just over an hour from Guayaquil, meaning it’s easy to move onto the next part of your Ecuadorian adventure.

    Luxury accommodation in Midwest Lowlands

    There are many incredible places to stay in Midwest Lowlands. Here are some of our favourites, handpicked by our travel designers:

    Midwest Lowlands

    Hacienda La Danesa
    Hacienda La Danesa is located just over an hour from Guayaquil in the direction of the Andes, but once you arrive, you’ll immediately feel like you’ve left all trace of city life behind. This beautiful family-run property has just six rooms giving it a really intimate and personal feel. The emphasis is on making the guests feel truly welcome and providing the kind of service that lets you simply relax and unwind, knowing everything is taken care of. Rooms are bright and airy and beautifully decorated in warm, earthy tones with local artwork and teak furniture reflecting the local customs and traditions. There are four rooms and two cottages, which are perfect for families. A farm-to-table philosophy makes eating here a real treat and guests are treated to delicious food made using produce grown on-site or bought from the local market. Meals are served on the open-sided Teca Terrace, or you can choose to dine privately. You’re also encouraged to try their jams, dulce de leche and handmade chocolate. Although the hacienda is the perfect place to unwind, there are some wonderful excursions that allow you to explore the beautiful natural surroundings. You can head out to the cloud forest to discover waterfalls, or to the Manglares-Churute Ecological Reserve in search of monkeys and birds. Closer to the hacienda there’s plenty of opportunities for cycling, hiking and tubing or learning how to whip up delicious Ecuadorian dishes in the kitchen. You can even try your hand at milking the cows! And for the ultimate in relaxation, indulge in a massage in the comfort of your room.
    Discover more

    Why book with Jacada?

    Personalised design illustration image

    Personalised design

    We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.

    Authentic experiences illustration image

    Authentic experiences

    Our expert guides and brilliant travel concierges are hand-picked to provide a genuine experience, bringing your destination to life with care and passion.

    Responsible travel illustration image

    Responsible travel

    Our luxury trips are designed with responsible travel principles that prioritise travel experiences that are both good for you and good for the planet.

    Ready to plan your adventure?

    Whatever you want from your Midwest Lowlands adventure, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

    Meet your Latin America team

    Plan your trip to Midwest Lowlands

    Whatever you want from your adventure in Midwest Lowlands, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

    Start planning

    Your trip, your story

    We craft trips deeply personal, delightfully surprising and entirely one of a kind. Every Jacada journey begins in conversation with a travel designer, a specialist in their destination of expertise. Behind each journey is a wealth of insight, gathered over years of on-the-ground exploration.

    Once you’re booked, you’ll meet your concierge. Based in the region you’re visiting, they’ll take care of all the details so your mind is at rest. They make the trip truly special – and truly yours.

    Where would you like to travel?
    Ariel view of waves breaking on a forested shoreline