A Relaxing Day at Hacienda La Danesa

​Yesterday, we relaxed at Hacienda La Danesa, a beautiful family-owned hacienda about 67 km east of Guayaquil. After spending almost two weeks in the high mountains of the Andes, it was a welcoming change to be back at sea level, where the warm, humid air and lush green landscapes created a completely different atmosphere.

Guayaquil, located in Ecuador’s coastal region, is the country’s largest city and a significant port. Unfortunately, in recent years, it has gained a bad reputation due to rising drug trafficking and the associated violence. While the situation doesn’t affect all areas, we were happy to stay safe. Our drive to the airport the next day would take a bit longer, but safety first!

We spent the day biking through the hacienda’s teak forests, hiking around the property, and learning all about cacao and the art of chocolate making—from harvesting the cacao pods to the final steps of crafting rich, handmade chocolate. It was a perfect mix of activity, learning, and relaxation in a stunning setting.