Hacienda San José: A Historic Agricultural Estate
-
Port
Guayaquil (Quito), Ecuador
-
Activity Level
Moderate Activity
-
Excursion Type
All,68
-
Wheelchair Accessible
No
-
Starting At (prices in USD)
$280
-
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
-
Duration
Approximately 7.5 Hours
-
Meals Included
Meals included
Today, embark on a captivating journey through Ecuador’s fertile coastal plains to Hacienda San José, a historic agricultural estate that offers a vivid glimpse into the country’s rich farming traditions and sustainable practices.
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive through the lush province of Los Ríos, where alluvial soils and a tropical climate create ideal conditions for cultivation. As you travel, admire the endless fields of pineapples, papayas, mangoes, rice, and coffee—a living tapestry of Ecuador’s agricultural abundance.
Founded in the 1930s and now managed by the fourth generation of the same family, Hacienda San José spans over 1,029 hectares and is a model of sustainability. The estate produces bananas, cacao, rice, oil palm, and teak, all cultivated with a deep respect for the environment. The hacienda’s operations are guided by three core principles: economic growth, environmental conservation, and social responsibility, with certifications that reflect its commitment to minimizing ecological impact.
Upon arrival, enjoy a warm welcome and refreshing drink before setting off on a guided walking tour. Wander through the banana plantations, explore the packing area, and stroll past fruit trees and the house garden, gaining insight into the cultivation and export process of one of Ecuador’s most iconic crops.
Next, indulge in a banana festival, a delightful culinary experience featuring a live demonstration of banana-based recipes. Discover the fruit’s versatility as you sample a variety of sweet and savory creations that showcase its unique flavors and textures.
To round out your visit, sit down to a homemade lunch prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients—a true taste of Ecuadorian hospitality. After this immersive and flavorful experience, relax on the return drive to the port, enriched by the sights, tastes, and stories of Ecuador’s agricultural soul.
Please Notes:
Guests should expect a walking distance of approximately 500 to 700 meters during the experience. It is important that participants are able to walk independently and board and disembark from the bus without assistance. However, guests in wheelchairs or those with limited mobility may participate with the support of a companion or guide. To accommodate dietary needs, any food restrictions must be communicated at least 48 hours in advance. Additionally, access to the property requires a manifest including each guest’s full name, date of birth, and nationality, which must be submitted no later than 48 hours prior to the tour. If you wish to make purchases during your visit, we suggest bringing cash in U.S. dollars. In Ecuador, $50 and $100 bills are not widely accepted, so smaller denominations are recommended. Traveler’s checks are not accepted.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations received within 48 hours prior to the scheduled start of the tour will incur a cancellation fee of 100% of the total price of the tour.