Nestled on the slopes of Rumiñahui Volcano, Hacienda El Porvenir is perfectly positioned for exploring Cotopaxi Volcano and its surroundings. It offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the Andean way of life while enjoying thrilling adventures. Just an hour and a half drive from Quito, the hacienda is located four kilometers from the northern entrance of Cotopaxi National Park.
Set at an elevation of 3,600 meters (11,811 feet) above sea level, the hacienda is surrounded by four volcanoes, including the iconic Cotopaxi. Guests can relax in a comfortable, warm hacienda environment, experiencing a working ranch dedicated to sustainable agriculture, cattle farming, conservation, and ecotourism. The ranch produces milk, cheese, and grows vegetables and herbs used in the on-site restaurant.
The farmhouse is built with local materials, preserving the essence of traditional Andean architecture. The buildings, including Casa Principal, Casa Chica, Casa del Establo, and APU Mountain SPA, are arranged around a central courtyard. The stables, saddle room, and corrals add to the hacienda's authentic charm. The history of Hacienda El Porvenir dates back to colonial times when the land, then known as “Pedregal,” was managed by Jesuits who raised sheep and later wild cattle. In 1913, the Gangotena Escudero family acquired the property, which has been maintained by the Pérez Gangotena family since 1999, who opened the doors to visitors to share its beauty and adventure.
Hacienda El Porvenir is open year-round, with Ecuador’s eternal spring offering two main seasons: the rainy "green" season (October-May) with cloudy mornings, and the dry season (June-September) characterized by clear skies and stunning views. Mountain weather can be unpredictable, with the possibility of experiencing snow, heat, rain, and wind all in one day.
The hacienda offers limited internet access in social areas, with some WiFi available in Suites and Traditional Hacienda Rooms. Mobile phone coverage is not available. As a working ranch, Hacienda El Porvenir blends cultures, traditions, and legends, offering guests a chance to create unforgettable memories.
At Hacienda El Porvenir, we offer 22 rooms categorized into three distinct types, each with its own unique charm, ensuring a comfortable and perfect stay for the guests.
These are the most exclusive and spacious rooms, designed to make you feel right at home. The suites boast spectacular views, offering both coziness and privacy. Each Master Suite includes a sitting area, an efficient stove, a hairdryer, free WiFi, and a private bathroom with a hot shower.
Junior Suites provide the same exclusivity and comfort as Master Suites but in a more compact size. Their stoves add warmth and a romantic ambiance. Each Junior Suite features a sitting area, an efficient stove, a hairdryer, free WiFi, and a private bathroom with a tub and shower combo.
These classic hacienda rooms are the standard option, offering comfort and authenticity. Designed for two people, each room is equipped with heating systems (electric heaters), free WiFi, and a private bathroom with a hot shower.
The Machai rooms offer a functional and unique glamping experience, inspired by traditional Andean huts but with modern comforts. We compare the Machai experience to a Japanese hotel, where instead of rice paper walls, we use locally woven estera (hand-knitted totora) for warmth and coziness. Each Machai can accommodate two people and shares access to four bathrooms and three showers with hot water.
Hacienda El Porvenir is located an hour and a half from Quito and just 4 km before the northern entrance to Cotopaxi National Park.
Distance from Machachi to Hacienda El Porvenir: 21 km.
GPS Coordinates: 0° 31’37.1”S 78°27’11.6” W
Take the Panamerican Highway from Quito towards Machachi. Once in Machachi, drive to the central park where the church is located. On one corner, you’ll see a large orange sign that says "SuFarmacia," along with a sign directing you to the North Entrance of Cotopaxi National Park. Follow this paved road, named García Moreno, for about two kilometers. From there, the road is paved until you reach the village of El Pedregal, which is 21 km from Machachi (about a 30-45 minute drive).
Along the way, you’ll see several signs directing you to Tierra del Volcán / Hacienda El Porvenir. Before reaching El Pedregal, you’ll come to a black gate with stone pillars. Do not enter here; instead, continue on the main road (to the right) following the signs by the road.
When you reach the village of El Pedregal, you’ll encounter a "Y" intersection with several signs. Take the right turn, following the signs for Tierra del Volcán along a gravel road. This road also leads to the north entrance of Cotopaxi National Park. About one kilometer from the "Y" intersection, you’ll see a sign on a wooden post that says Tierra del Volcán, marking your arrival at Hacienda El Porvenir.
To reach El Porvenir by bus, first go to the Quitumbe bus terminal in southern Quito. From Quitumbe, take a bus heading to Machachi. The bus ride takes about an hour and a half, possibly a bit less. Ask the bus driver to drop you off at Machachi Park. From the park, you can hire a pick-up truck (green with white) and ask the driver to take you to Tierra del Volcán/Hacienda El Porvenir; the fare is around $25. If you prefer not to hire a truck, you can catch a bus to El Pedregal at Machachi Park, next to the SuFarmacia. There are four buses daily, two in the morning and two in the afternoon. If you take this bus, get off at the "Y" in El Pedregal and walk from there to El Porvenir, which takes about 45 minutes.