Your Travel Experience with Finest Journeys
Rose Plantation & Cuenca
For this morning's excursion, visit Hacienda La Compañía de Jesús, a French neoclassical estate that has been transformed into a family-run rose farm. Managed for five generations, the hacienda offers insight into Ecuador’s thriving rose industry, made possible by the region’s ideal equatorial climate. A family member will guide you through the greenhouses and post-harvest areas, explaining the blend of advanced techniques and local community involvement that sustain the business. After enjoying a traditional lunch, you'll continue to Cuenca, officially named Nuestra Señora de los Cuatro Ríos de Cuenca after the Tomebamba, Machángara, Yanuncay, and Tarqui Rivers that flow through the city. As Ecuador’s third-largest city and a renowned cultural hub, Cuenca is known for its narrow streets, charming plazas, and stunning colonial-era architecture. Highlights include the New Cathedral, located near the Flower Plaza, and the Pumapungo archaeological site, where Cañari and Inca ruins stand side by side. For a panoramic view of the city, head to the El Turi viewpoint. Cuenca is also well known for Panama hat production and a lively nightlife scene, especially at the bars along the riverbanks. Upon arrival, you’ll meet your local guide, who will take you to your hotel. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace.