The Magic Roundabout

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

V!VA User‘s Description

This hotel is currently closed. V!VA will update this page as soon as informed otherwise.

Perched on a hill in the cloudforest just outside Baeza, the Magic Roundabout is a real gem. Run by a wonderfully eccentric and hospitible 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 cloudforest 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 cosy 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 cloudforest 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 hostal and take you out. You can also organise 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.

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: 593-99345264 (cell)
E-mail: www.magicroundabout.info
URL: www.themagicroundabout.org

Traveler Reviews of The Magic Roundabout

try this place it is wonderful ...

Rating: 0%

try this place it is wonderful

By Crit from yorkshire, Apr 09, 2005

Off the beaten track

Rating: 100%

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

By V!VA User from New Zealand, Jul 10, 2006

This place is amazing!

Rating: 100%

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

By V!VA User, Nov 07, 2005