The colonial Hacienda San Agustin de Callo was built on the site of an Inca palace, one of the two most important archaeological Inca sites in Ecuador. Over the years the varied and influential inhabitants of San Agustin de Callo have contributed to the unique blend of architecture which creates the individual character of the house. In the main courtyard it is possible to see three distinct styles: Inca Imperial style (15th century, which the Incas used for their temples and palaces), Spanish Colonial (18th century) and Republican (19th century). San Agustin de Callo constitutes the only lived-in museum of Inca Imperial and Spanish Colonial style.
San Agustin has six suites of which four have adjoining drawing rooms, two suites with incorporated drawing rooms and five double rooms. In total there are eleven rooms in all with capacity to room thirty-four people. The two smallest rooms Montufar and Bonpland, are located in Callo House. Nevertheless, these are double rooms. All other rooms are spacious.
Inca House suites have a great view of the surrounding fields, Chimborazo and Tunguraghua. The warmth of the fireplace invites one to enjoy and relax in a family house.
Callo House has a magnificent view of Cotopaxi Volcano. This charming building has a cozy living room with fireplace and a kitchen.
Cotopaxi House has two full suites with Jacuzzi, king-size beds and independent drawing rooms.
The restaurant serves authentic high Andean dishes. Following is a sampling of the dishes all freshly prepared for guests: Llapingachos (a type of potato cake), quinoa croquets, maize patties, tamales (steamed corn maize stuffed with seasoned chicken, egg, chilies, olives, wrapped in achira leaves). Soups such as quinoa, timbushca, barley rice soup and the hacienda's famous "locro," a rich cheese and potato soup served with slices of ripe avocado, and freshly prepared aji.
San Agustin de Callo provides an excellent base for visiting the outstanding scenery of Cotopaxi National Park and its dominating, cone-shaped volcano. Fauna includes an abundance of birdlife as well as spectacled bear and Andean fox. Activities that can be arranged include horseriding, mountain biking, fishing and hiking. There are also several colorful Indian markets within 20 minutes of the hacienda such as Latacunga (Tues, Fri, Sat), Pujilí (Sun)) and Saquisilí (Thurs).
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