INCA Hacienda El Porvenir Retreat
Hacienda El Porvenir
Hacienda Life & Cotopaxi Retreat
August 30 - September 1, 2025
Hacienda El Porvenir, located in the highlands of Ecuador near Cotopaxi National Park, has a rich history rooted in traditional Andean ranching and conservation. Originally a working cattle ranch, it has evolved into a sustainable tourism destination that preserves Ecuadorian heritage while promoting environmental stewardship. The hacienda has been owned and managed by the Gangotena family for generations, who have blended their deep-rooted traditions with eco-tourism initiatives. Today, under the co-direction of environmentalist and family member María José Andrade, it offers visitors an immersive experience in Andean culture, from horseback riding with chagras (Ecuadorian cowboys) to exploring the stunning páramo landscape, all while maintaining a strong commitment to conservation and community engagement.
DAY 1 | Arrival & Cooking Class
SATURDAY | After returning to Quito from the Galapagos, we drive 90 minutes into the highlands to Hacienda El Porvenir, set on the rugged slopes of Rumiñahui Volcano. This working ranch—dedicated to sustainable agriculture, conservation, and ecotourism—offers an authentic gateway to Cotopaxi, the world’s highest active volcano.
After settling into our cozy, Andean-style rooms with adobe walls and wood-beamed ceilings, we gather for a hands-on cooking class to prepare:
Cheese empanadas – crispy, golden pastries filled with fresh, hacienda-made cheese. | Canelazo – a warming Andean drink, like mulled cider, made with cinnamon, fruit, and sugarcane liquor. | House ají (chile sauce) – a signature blend of heat, acidity, and local flavors.
Enjoy our homemade feast, sharing stories over a warm, fireside meal as the sun sets over the Andean peaks.
DAY 2 | Hacienda Life & Horse Connection Experience
Early risers can start the day feeding horses, llamas, and baby calves alongside the ranch caretakers. After breakfast, we embark on a horse connection experience—a mindful, trust-building session focused on non-verbal communication and emotional awareness.
Following a hearty ranch-style lunch, the afternoon is yours to explore:
Ride horseback across the high-altitude páramo, following the paths of Andean cowboys (chagras).
Hike scenic trails, with breathtaking views of Cotopaxi’s towering summit.
Unwind at the spa, enjoying a herbal soak or a traditional Andean energy therapy session.
As evening falls, we gather fireside, swapping stories beneath the vast Andean sky.
DAY 3 | Cotopaxi Volcano & Pachamama Ceremony
MONDAY | After breakfast, we venture into Cotopaxi National Park, exploring the dramatic landscapes surrounding one of the world’s most iconic volcanoes. Whether admiring its near-perfect cone from afar or hiking toward its glaciers, the experience is unforgettable.
Back at the hacienda, we take part in a Pachamama gratitude ceremony, honoring Mother Earth. As a meaningful farewell, we plant a native tree, contributing to the hacienda’s reforestation efforts, which have restored over 700,000 trees to the Andean highlands.
In the afternoon, we transfer to Quito’s airport, carrying home memories of Ecuador’s wild landscapes, rich traditions, and inspiring people.
This optional extension offers a perfect way to unwind, reconnect with nature, and immerse yourself in authentic Andean culture.
August 30-September 1, 2025 Extension Pricing
2-3 guests on the extension
$1235-$1340 per person, double occupancy, depending on the room category
4-8 guests on the extension
$935-$1040 per person, double occupancy, depending on the room category
Upgrades, supplements, inclusions and exclusions
Room upgrades
Upgrades to Junior Suite and Suites available—please contact us for rates
Extension single supplement
$160 to $245 depending on the room category
Included
Group transfer from Quito airport to Hacienda El Porvenir on Day 1
All activities and tours as noted
All meals from dinner on Day 1 to lunch on Day 3
Group transfer from Hacienda El Porvenir to Quito airport on Day 3
Not included
Private airport transfers
Spa services
Alcoholic beverages
Laundry
Gratuities
Deposit, Payment & Cancellation Schedule*
*Cancellation due to force majeure (circumstances outside your control, including medical illness) must be covered by travel insurance. INCA/Inca Floats, Inc. will not be responsible.
INDIVIDUAL BOOKINGS OF ONE TO FOUR TRAVELERS
Extension Deposit
A deposit of $300 per person is due at the time of booking
Any additional arrangements may incur further deposits, due at the time of booking those services
Payment
The balance is due 90 days before departure
Domestic or regional airfares are due at the time of ticketing
Cancellation
Up to 151 days before departure – deposit may be refunded, or transferred to a new departure within one year of original trip date*
150-91 days before departure – deposit is non-refundable but may be transferred to a new departure within one year of the original trip date.
90-61 days before departure – all monies received are non-refundable but may be transferred to a new departure within one year of the original trip date.
60-0 days before departure – 100% of the full trip price is forfeited
SMALL GROUPS OF FIVE OR MORE TRAVELERS
Extension Deposit
An initial deposit of $300 per person is due at the time of booking
A second deposit of $300 per person is due 150 days before departure
Any additional arrangements may incur further deposits, due at the time of booking those services
Payment
The balance is due 90 days before departure
Domestic or regional airfares are due at the time of ticketing
Cancellation
Up to 151 days before departure – the initial deposit may be refunded or transferred to a new departure within one year of the original trip date*
150-91 days before departure – initial deposit and second deposit are non-refundable but may be transferred to a new departure within one year of the original trip date
90-61 days before departure – 50% of the full trip price is forfeited. The remaining balance is non-refundable, but may be transferred towards a new departure within one year of the original trip date
60-0 days before departure – 100% of the full trip price is forfeited
* In the event of cancellations, wire fees and credit card commissions will be deducted when calculating refunds.
See additional Terms & Conditions »
Frequently Asked Questions
What level of physical fitness do I need?
Activities vary at the hacienda and can accommodate a variety of fitness levels. If you are fit for the Galapagos and Quito, you will likely not have difficulty at the hacienda.
Do I need experience with horses?
You do not need prior experience with horses to participate in the horse connection experience.
What about single guests?
The hacienda can accommodate a limited number of single guests with a small supplement.
What is the policy regarding children?
The minimum age for this adventure is 12. There is no child discount on the Retreat.
What Gratuities are included? Can gratuities be prepaid?
Tips are not included. We ask all gratuities be paid in USD cash.
What about special dietary restrictions?
Hacienda El Porvenir can accommodate almost all dietary preferences, allergies, and restrictions. During the booking process, guests can specify any dietary preferences, allergies, or limitations. Hard-to-source or highly specialized provisions may require a supplement.