Step back in time at our historic eco-friendly hotel—once a convent for the 'Dames Protectoras del Obrero'—where every detail tells a story. Nestled in the heart of Quito's UNESCO-listed historic district, our 240-year-old gem boasts original décor restored during a meticulous two-year renovation, complete with solar-heated water and ozone-sanitized linens for the utmost comfort. Immerse yourself in authentic Quiteño style. Just steps from the San Francisco metro stop and surrounded by the city’s most famous museums, our hotel is a gateway to the past and a lesson in sustainability. Languages spoken: English & Spanish. Welcome to Hotel Cantuña—where history meets hospitality!
Hotel Cantuña welcomes you with warm, light-filled spaces where plants and handcrafted touches bring life to every corner. Thoughtfully decorated living and dining areas invite you to linger and share the spirit of Quito. Common areas have free Wi-Fi.
The rooms echo this charm—some opening onto a tranquil courtyard—each styled with exposed red-brick walls and vibrant tapestries that whisper stories of the Andes. A place where history and comfort embrace, and every detail feels personal.
Ask us for recommendations
Ask us for recommendations
Portal de Cantuña sits at the heart of Quito’s living history — 240 years of stories, footsteps from San Francisco Plaza, the Basilica, and the metro. Many of our guests stay a few nights here and use Quito as a basecamp for deeper Ecuador journeys. These are the small, family-run partners we recommend personally to anyone who asks us at the front desk.
Walking distance from our colonial doorway
A 15-minute walk uphill from the hotel, the neogothic Basilica towers offer the best panoramic view of Quito. We’ll point you in the right direction over breakfast.
Local Quiteños guide you through the legends and lesser-known corners of the colonial centre. A perfect introduction the morning after you arrive.
Quito’s longest-standing tour operator and our preferred concierge partner for day trips to Cotopaxi, Quilotoa, Mindo, and the Mitad del Mundo.
A wild, lagoon-laced corner of the Ecuadorian Amazon — the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve. Indigenous Siona territory, pink river dolphins, and dawns you remember for life.
From our doorstep, the simplest route is TuVIPBus — an overnight VIP service that picks up nearby in the historic centre at 10:00 PM and delivers you to Lago Agrio for breakfast at 8:00 AM. From there, your lodge transfer is included. We work most closely with two trusted ecolodges:
A reliable, well-run lodge on the Laguna Grande. Their 4 and 5-day programs balance wildlife observation with cultural visits to the Siona.
For travelers who want a quieter, more intimate jungle experience — small groups, deeper conversations, and a remarkable canopy tower.
If the islands are calling, we’ll help you find the right boat
For spontaneous travelers with flexible dates — substantial discounts on cabins departing soon.
Slower, more curated Galapagos itineraries for travelers who want presence over checklists.