Perched on a hill in the cloud forest just outside Baeza, the Magic Roundabout is a real gem. Run by a wonderfully eccentric and hospitable British guy, Ali, with his three dogs, it has a warm, homey atmosphere and is a great place to chill out for a few days.

The main building features a terrace with hammocks and great views over the cloud forest and river, while inside is a chalet-style open space with huge fall-asleep-in-me armchairs, a bar and a good selection of board games to keep you busy. Most of the accommodation is in the cozy bunkhouse, which sleeps 14, although there is a double room in the main building and one private cabaña (with more on the way).

Dinner is a $5 set menu every night (three courses and a vegetarian option) and everyone eats together. Breakfast ($2) is the standard fare - eggs, fruit and bread, and a lunch of soup and bread ($1) is served pretty much whenever you like.

During the day, you can take a guided hike through the cloud forest with Ali or, if he's not available, he can point you in the right direction or arrange for a guide (either a birding specialist or a general naturalist guide) to come to the hostel and take you out. You can also organize horse-riding, rafting and kayaking from here.

As credit cards are not accepted, make sure you bring enough cash for your stay (remembering to allow for your drinks) as the nearest bank is in Tena, two and a half hours down the road.

Location:
Las Palmas, 12 km from Baeza on the road from Quito to Tena. Look out for signs on the right hand side of the road.
Baeza, Ecuador

Hotel

This Hotel is: Budget

Room Prices:
Lower:$5 for a dorm bed, $7-9 per person for private rooms and cabañas (all rooms have shared bath)

Contact Information:
Phone: Cell: 593-9-934-5264
E-mail: www.magicroundabout.info
URL: www.themagicroundabout.org

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Reviews

Traveler Reviews of The Magic Roundabout

Amazing place to relax

It's wonderfull place to get rest, to fell free of your daily routine.We were 13 people groupe had rom/cola party and everyone were happy like children.

Traveler from Lithuania on Feb 04, 2008

Off the beaten track

In all my travels in Latin America, this is the no.1 best place I have stayed. Completely unique. Great views from the balcony, walks, waterfalls, community and owner is very friendly and helpful, lots of cuba libres and good food

Traveler from New Zealand on Jul 10, 2006

magic in the cloudforest

Great to be able to have quality time with the owner and really find out about the land, animals (lovely friendly dogs and llamas!)community and area. Fab home-cooked food and cosy fire. Loads of walks to visit waterfalls as well as hang out in home/hostal and play pool. Sorted!

Traveler from Holland on Feb 08, 2006

This place is amazing!

So relaxing and beautiful I didn't want to leave...

Traveler on Nov 07, 2005

try this place it is wonderful ...

try this place it is wonderful

Crit from yorkshire on Apr 09, 2005