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Hotel Apartamentos Otorongo

De Abril 5-40 y Guayas 12, Cuenca 010150 Ecuador
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Traveler (68)
Room & Suite (21)
Dining (4)

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About

#15 of 102 hotels in Cuenca
Location
4.6
Cleanliness
4.5
Service
4.7
Value
4.6
Affordable furnished rental apartments providing the perfect base for you to explore Cuenca. Walking distance from downtown, markets, university, banks and entertainment. Happily run by the owners . pets are welcome
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Breakfast in the room
Pets Allowed ( Dog / Pet Friendly )
Airport transportation
Massage
BBQ facilities
Concierge
Parking
Wifi
Non-smoking hotel
Outdoor furniture
Picnic area
Ironing service
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Room features
Soundproof rooms
Safe
Bottled water
Kitchenette
Microwave
Refrigerator
Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Family rooms
Smoking rooms available
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
HOTEL STYLE
River View
Charming
Languages Spoken
English, Spanish
See what other travelers are saying
  • Robb H
    Las Vegas, Nevada138 contributions
    Would come again
    We stayed here for one month and if we found ourselves in Cuenca again, would not hesitate to return. The location by the river is great, with some nice seating areas. It isn't right in the downtown area, but we enjoyed the walk along the river, and taxi's are cheap and plentiful if you'd prefer that. We had the unit right on the river which was nice, and also had a kitchen so we could cook. The wifi worked most of the time from the room, but there was better coverage from the sitting area in the courtyard. This is very typical of what we experienced in other places in Ecuador as well. They do have a washing machine/dryer onsite for a fee that we found convenient (though no hot water to the washer.) My only real complaint is that I'm one of those crazy people who like taking showers with water so hot it is almost burning. There was always hot water, but it does get chilly here so I would have liked it a bit hotter. That said, this wasn't really a problem, just more of a personal quirk, but something to be aware of if you are like me and really want to steam up the bathroom. lol The best part of our stay though was the staff. We didn't interact a whole lot with the family (though they were around and were very friendly). But both Sara and Angelita were above and beyond friendly and really went out of their way to be helpful at the slightest opportunity. We were both very touched by their kindness. And the two old dogs are just the sweetest. Definitely recommended, especially if you want to get away from the noise and traffic of the downtown.
    Thank you so much for your nice review about our place, it comes in a very difficult time with a full stop in tourism due to the pandemic, A really nice cheer up on this dull days. Hope to have you back in the near future. Be safe. Warm regards The Otorongo family
    Written March 26, 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Date of stay: February 2020
    Written March 25, 2020
  • Russ
    Kathmandu, Nepal3 contributions
    Great location, superb hosts
    My apartment was immaculate! The location is superb. Very quite, but within easy walking distance to the shops and restaurants of El Centro historical district. The best part is the hosts, Xavier and Samara are encyclopedias of hiking, climbing, canyoneering, and biking routes and activities around Southern and central Ecuador! For any visitor the location and beautiful setting is worth a stay. For the adventurous, tapping into the hosts knowledge is priceless!
    That is very kind of you , thank you for the wonderful review
    Written January 6, 2022
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Date of stay: December 2021
    Written January 4, 2022
  • Traveler714
    90 contributions
    Great Value, Friendly Helpful People
    We just completed a one month stay in a one bedroom apartment with a cost averaging less than $20 per day. The apartment was clean, and the daily housekeeping service kept it that way - they even did our breakfast dishes for us! The owner (Xavier) and his wife were very helpful, answering our questions and providing us with directions and tips abut the area. When we first arrived I think most all the units were occupied by people from the US and Canada. The neighbors were very helpful in getting us settled and providing us with recommendations. We were fortunate and had some very delightful people as our neighbors, and now longer term friends. Toward the end of our stay perhaps one-third of the units were occupied by Ecuadorians on holiday, and everyone was very friendly. The location is very good, about a 15-25 minute walk along Rio TomeBamba into El Central depending upon how fast you walk and the route taken. Our unit backed up on the RioTomeBamba, which I believe is quieter than the units in front along 12 de Abril. The beds were comfortable and they provided enough blankets that kept us more than toasty on a few cold nights. The kitchen supplies were basic. We picked up a few items at the Mercado or Supermaxi to make it easier for preparing meals, but there is enough provided to get by. The towels were ok, not JW Marriott quality, but we weren't paying Marriott prices. There was a small TV in the apartment which had stations with shows in both English and Spanish, Wi-fi is included but it can be slow if the bandwidth is being hit by a bunch of people - same as any hotel. Hot water was ok after we learned what to expect and some of the nuances; hot water was the right handle in the kitchen and shower, and the left handle in the bathroom sink. Tankless hot water heaters are more flow-sensitive than the tanks so common in the US, and flow volume could change depending upon how many units were up and showering.
    Date of stay: October 2012
    Traveled as a couple
    Written November 15, 2012
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Russ wrote a review Jan 2022
Kathmandu, Nepal3 contributions1 helpful vote
My apartment was immaculate! The location is superb. Very quite, but within easy walking distance to the shops and restaurants of El Centro historical district. The best part is the hosts, Xavier and Samara are encyclopedias of hiking, climbing, canyoneering, and biking routes and activities around Southern and central Ecuador! For any visitor the location and beautiful setting is worth a stay. For the adventurous, tapping into the hosts knowledge is priceless!
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Date of stay: December 2021
Value
Cleanliness
Service
Room Tip: I stayed in room 3
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Xavier Montezuma, Director General at Hotel Apartamentos Otorongo
Responded Jan 6, 2022
That is very kind of you , thank you for the wonderful review
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Thomas B wrote a review Jan 2022
7 contributions1 helpful vote
If you are visiting Cuenca, I highly recommend staying at Apartamentos Otorongo. My wife, our 5-year-old son, and I just spent a month there and we are so thankful we made the right choice. Xavier, the owner, goes way above and beyond to make you feel welcome and comfortable. He even took us on a four-hour tour around the entire city to help orient us to the area. One guest suffered a broken leg while we were there, and he personally took them to the hospital and stayed to help with translation. He ended up knowing an orthopedic surgeon, who he called directly, and they got her sorted away within a few days- unbelievable! Additionally, we were able to meet so many other guests and have made some really great friends from there. The rooms are clean and have everything you need, and the grill and hammocks by the river were so great. Again, if you are considering coming to Cuenca, whether for a visit or to relocate your family here, do yourself a favor and book with Xavier at Otorongo!
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Date of stay: December 2021
Rooms
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Xavier Montezuma, Director General at Hotel Apartamentos Otorongo
Responded Jan 6, 2022
Highly appreciate your kind words, I really wish you the best in your new home in Cuenca , please come visit , we have to make another BBQ.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Mary Ann D wrote a review Dec 2021
Kathmandu, Nepal7 contributions21 helpful votes
Last Christmas Day the owner carried loaves of fresh Ecuadorian Christmas bread to each room! It's a beautiful place, one of a few riverfront properties. It's quiet; the owner keeps the property clean and safe. There are picnic areas (under palm and bamboo roofs for rai), where guests can peacefully sit outdoors, watching the river below, or go out and investigate Cuenca. The neighborhood is safe and fun, with tamale take out or dine in restaurants 5 minutes away, local stores for mineral water, bread (and ice cream), fruit shops, and the beautiful Andes, right there. The wonderful river walks, are steps away. And Hotel Apartamentos Otorongo is completely affordable, with free weekly maid service for long term visits.
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Date of stay: January 2021
Value
Rooms
Service
Room Tip: I lived on the ground floor near the owner's family
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Xavier Montezuma, Director General at Hotel Apartamentos Otorongo
Responded Dec 16, 2021
Thank for the review Maryann , much appreciated.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Robb H wrote a review Mar 2020
Las Vegas, Nevada138 contributions108 helpful votes
We stayed here for one month and if we found ourselves in Cuenca again, would not hesitate to return. The location by the river is great, with some nice seating areas. It isn't right in the downtown area, but we enjoyed the walk along the river, and taxi's are cheap and plentiful if you'd prefer that. We had the unit right on the river which was nice, and also had a kitchen so we could cook. The wifi worked most of the time from the room, but there was better coverage from the sitting area in the courtyard. This is very typical of what we experienced in other places in Ecuador as well. They do have a washing machine/dryer onsite for a fee that we found convenient (though no hot water to the washer.) My only real complaint is that I'm one of those crazy people who like taking showers with water so hot it is almost burning. There was always hot water, but it does get chilly here so I would have liked it a bit hotter. That said, this wasn't really a problem, just more of a personal quirk, but something to be aware of if you are like me and really want to steam up the bathroom. lol The best part of our stay though was the staff. We didn't interact a whole lot with the family (though they were around and were very friendly). But both Sara and Angelita were above and beyond friendly and really went out of their way to be helpful at the slightest opportunity. We were both very touched by their kindness. And the two old dogs are just the sweetest. Definitely recommended, especially if you want to get away from the noise and traffic of the downtown.
Read more
Date of stay: February 2020
Location
Cleanliness
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Xavier Montezuma, Director General at Hotel Apartamentos Otorongo
Responded Mar 26, 2020
Thank you so much for your nice review about our place, it comes in a very difficult time with a full stop in tourism due to the pandemic, A really nice cheer up on this dull days. Hope to have you back in the near future. Be safe. Warm regards The Otorongo family
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lurv G wrote a review Jul 2019
2 contributions3 helpful votes
This place could be so much better if the owners actually spent money to paint and keep it clean. It's by the river, which is lovely, but the rooms all smell a bit damp and musty. Also, the I saw a rat outside in the courtyard. It's also by a busy road with lots of noise from traffic.
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Date of stay: May 2019
Value
Rooms
Service
Trip type: Traveled with family
Room Tip: try to get room by the river.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1 Helpful vote
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Response from HulkCuencaEcuador, Propietario at Hotel Apartamentos Otorongo
Responded Jul 14, 2019
Dear Guest Thanks for you feedback, As a matter of fact we are doing the painting right know, they are doing a good job if you haven't seeing ladders and paint buckets. We are by the river indeed and its beauty has also " side effects" humidity is one of them, what had been exacerbated for the unusual heavy rain in the last month, basically for the ground floor apartments facing the river. We do rotate dehumidifier on the apartments quiete often, we will increase the rotation because of you comments indeed. Just wandering how you possible say ALL the rooms smell damp and musty , we are in full occupancy right now, and I really doubt you where able to see them all. As a matter of fact a long termer in the upper floor, have a vaporizer that add humidity and a Patchoulli smell or something to her apartment, because she liked that way. The only way to keep away the unwanted rodents if you are in a city next to the river , and I have seen that happening in the Tevere in Rome or the Seine in Paris , is to have trained dogs to keep them a way. We have two that do a pretty descent job , but once in a while and adventurous one decide to explore around , but I can assure you they will leave the property in the act, as soon as they sense the proximity of our dogs. We can not do much with the road itself, but all the apartments facing the street features a PVC double glass windows , you hear noise by the gate , but not inside the apartments. Regards
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Pixelvt wrote a review Mar 2019
Cuenca, Ecuador221 contributions92 helpful votes
My experience is a bit different, in that I own a house nearby and due to a complete bathroom remodel needed a place to shower for several days. The crew here came to the rescue and offered us a place to shower every morning for 15 days at a very reasonable rate. A quick 10 minute walk down 12 de Abril and back was well worth it as we endured the dust and more of a Cuenca remodel. But the best part was meeting everyone at Otorongo, Xaviar, and my new friend Angelita, who helped me with my Espanol while I helped her with English. We had good fun teasing each other about language and more, and that made the day every morning when I saw her. I have to say several years back when I started visiting Cuenca I did not know about this place, but if I had I would have gladly stayed there. As others have noted, the location is superb, staff outstanding, the river is cool, the rooms are fine, and the showers rock. I have stayed in El Centro before, and its ok, but this is very close without the noise and traffic so worth considering for sure. Our house is near the Colesio, which is just close enough and far enough from El Centro, an area worth checking out.
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Date of stay: March 2019
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from happyclimberecu, Propietario at Hotel Apartamentos Otorongo
Responded Mar 19, 2019
Dear Bill Thanks for your review, we are very happy than we gave you a hand with your remodeling. Thank so much for being flexible and moving around, while we "juggle" with you. As we provide accommodation to our regular guest. If you ever consider more remodeling or you just want to stop by for a chat. You know where to find us, Vecino(neighbor) !! Warm regards
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lawrence H wrote a review Feb 2019
San Francisco, California18 contributions4 helpful votes
With sincere gratitude we review the apartment at Otorongo Apartments, the home of Xavier, Samara, and their son and daughter. Our adventure began with an arranged pickup at Guayaquil airport with Samara. It was a spectacular drive through the Cajas National Park. Check in was a breeze. Our apartment had two bedrooms and a private bath with plenty of closet and storage space. The kitchen was equipped with a full size fridge, blender, toaster oven and stove top range. We were on the second level overlooking the magnificent courtyard full of lush flowers and native plants. Looking out of the bedroom windows we could see and hear the Tomebamba River below. Adjacent to the courtyard is a common area by the river with hammocks, chairs and table. A perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. Another common area is the library, which is where we enjoyed a delicious optional breakfast. We were treated to strong Ecuadorian coffee, warm milk, eggs, rolls, fresh passion fruit juice and homemade plantain fritters, served by a delightful member of the staff Angelita. We booked a spectacular full day tour with Xavier and Samara’s daughter, who was on vacation from university. The tour included the archeological site, Ingapirca, where she served as our English interpreter for an informative guided tour of the Canari and Incan ruins. On the trip back to Cuenca was, she took us to a Mercado in Gualaceo for lunch, popular with locals. The next stop was in Chordeley, a town known for shops featuring gold and silver filigree. Our final stop on the way to Cuenca was at the Casa Museo de la Makana, where we had a private tour of the production of hand dyed shawls, scarves, shoes and handbags (plants and insects provide the colors). Do not miss this if the opportunity permits! Xavier and Samara provided concierge-level assistance with suggestions for dining, sightseeing, and taxi arrangements (no Uber in Cuenca yet). With our limited Spanish, this was a huge plus. The apartments are a great value and are very secure with locked gates around the property and an overnight guard. We enjoyed the vegan restaurant next door, Fratelli, and the lovely Magnolia Cafe across the river (see our review). Come stay here and tell your friends and family about this special place.
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Date of stay: January 2019Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from HulkCuencaEcuador, Propietario at Hotel Apartamentos Otorongo
Responded Feb 15, 2019
Thank so much for your wonderful review , I really hope our paths meet again. Wish you a great rest of the trip Xavier and Family
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Russ wrote a review Jan 2019
Kathmandu, Nepal3 contributions1 helpful vote
I love the location, it is out of the noise and traffic of the city center, yet just a few blocks from the historic sites. It is next to the river and totally chill. In addition to a great location, Xavier is an encyclopedia of information on trails, peaks peak bagging, mountain biking, and canyoneering opportunities. From his years of guiding experience he can help you plan and execute trips all over the country. I can't recommend this place highly enough for adventure travelers!
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Date of stay: January 2019
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Traveled with friends
Room Tip: See if you can get a room next to the river.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Andrés G, Director de Relaciones con Clientes at Hotel Apartamentos Otorongo
Responded Jan 25, 2019
Dear 99999iii Thank you very much for sharing your experience on TripAdvisor. Your positive feedback means a lot to the whole team. We are very pleased that you enjoyed your stay at Apartamentos Otorongo and we hope to welcome you again at your Ecuadorian home as soon as possible. Kind regards,
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Matt L wrote a review Jan 2019
7 contributions7 helpful votes
Room was conveniently located about 3 blocks from the heart of the Heritage center in Cuenca. Conveniently located near a local grocery spot, we were able to buy groceries and cook in an adequate kitchen in our apartment. I would stay here again. The management worked hard to help us navigate everything from taxis to buses to groceries to hikes in National Parks.
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Date of stay: December 2018
Rooms
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1 Helpful vote
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Response from Andrés G, Director de Relaciones con Clientes at Hotel Apartamentos Otorongo
Responded Jan 15, 2019
Dear Matt Thank you for taking the time to share your review on TripAdvisor. We are very pleased that you enjoyed your stay at Apartamentos Otorongo. We do whatever we can to make sure our guests feel welcomed and it means a lot to us to receive such positive feedback as yours. Our goal is to ensure that our guests leave Apartamentos Otorongo with memories of an extraordinary experience achieving this goal is our greatest satisfaction. We hope to see you back. Warm regards, The whole team of Apartamentos Otorongo
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
kell2011 wrote a review Dec 2018
Richmond, Vermont39 contributions30 helpful votes
Very nice and helpful property owner/manager. Although I only spent one evening, this would be a nice place to stay for an extended period of time. Quiet, clean and centrally located. It only took a short walk to find street vendors offering great food outdoors.
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Date of stay: December 2018
Location
Service
Trip type: Traveled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Andrés G, Director de Relaciones con Clientes at Hotel Apartamentos Otorongo
Responded Jan 15, 2019
Dear Kell We are very grateful for your positive feedback. We are extremely pleased that you enjoyed your stay at Apartamentos Otorongo so much and we hope to see you again soon in Cuenca. Apartamentos Otorongo is your home in Ecuador and everything is ready for your next stay! Warm regards
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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PRICE RANGE
$39 - $72 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
EcuadorAzuay ProvinceCuenca
NUMBER OF ROOMS
15
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HOTEL APARTAMENTOS OTORONGO - Prices & Apartment Hotel Reviews (Cuenca, Ecuador)

Frequently Asked Questions about Hotel Apartamentos Otorongo
Which popular attractions are close to Hotel Apartamentos Otorongo?
Nearby attractions include Museo Municipal de Arte Moderno (0.2 miles), MAKI FairTrade (0.2 miles), and Art Cuenca (0.2 miles).
What are some of the property amenities at Hotel Apartamentos Otorongo?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, free parking, and a concierge.
What food & drink options are available at Hotel Apartamentos Otorongo?
Guests can enjoy barbeque facilities during their stay.
Is parking available at Hotel Apartamentos Otorongo?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Hotel Apartamentos Otorongo?
Conveniently located restaurants include Mangiare Benne Restaurante, San Sebas Cafe, and Jodoco Bistro.
Are pets allowed at Hotel Apartamentos Otorongo?
Yes, pets are typically allowed, but it's always best to call ahead to confirm.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Hotel Apartamentos Otorongo?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English and Spanish.
Are there any historical sites close to Hotel Apartamentos Otorongo?
Many travelers enjoy visiting Museo Catedral Vieja (0.6 miles), Plaza de las flores (0.5 miles), and The Ruins of Todos Los Santos (0.9 miles).
Does Hotel Apartamentos Otorongo have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the river view available here.
Is Hotel Apartamentos Otorongo accessible?
Yes, it offers reduced mobility rooms. For specific inquiries, we recommend calling ahead to confirm.