Volcano Crater · Ecuador · Pululahua
Live where the world
still breathes
Pululahua Crater Residences: Arrive. Stay. Live.
A place to live for explorers and retirees in one of the safest and most spectacular landscapes in the world.
Scroll
TV & PODCAST
As seen on radio
& TV
Our life project in Ecuador is attracting a great deal of interest. Learn more about our vision and challenges here:
- TV Coverage: Experience our new start in the wilderness on “Goodbye Deutschland” (VOX) – including all the highs and lows (clips on the VOX Instagram channel video in German).
- Background: In the Kontrafunk podcast (podcast in German), Annette talks in detail about her motivation and the philosophy behind our project in the reserve.
ABOUT ANNETTE
From a Hamburg office to the
heart of Ecuador
I am Annette Walther, and a few years ago I made my dream come true: a life surrounded by nature in the Pululahua Crater in Ecuador. Even back in Germany, I rescued stray dogs and brought them with me on my journey here. Today, I offer vacation rentals and a home for seniors—always connected to my passion for giving dogs a safe life.”
The Pululahua Crater is wonderful for all of that: a mild climate, beautiful nature, sightseeing nearby, the next town close at hand—and even Quito, the capital, and the airport are quickly and easily accessible.
ACCOMMODATIONS
DOGS RESCUED
YEARS IN ECUADOR
THE LOCATION
Pululahua - living
volcano, silent paradise
Located just 30 km north of Quito, the Pululahua volcanic crater is one of the few inhabited volcanic craters in the world. A world of mist, eucalyptus, birdsong, and eternal green.
The climate is mild year-round, the air is clean, and the people are friendly. No tourist crowds, no noise — just the feeling of having arrived somewhere deeper.
CLIMATE
18–22°C year-round, an eternal feeling of spring
LOCATION
30 km to Quito, Geobotanical Reserve Ecuador
NATURE
Rainforest, hummingbirds, volcanic crater panorama
COSTS
Up to 70% cheaper than Europe or the USA
INTERNET
Stable Wi-Fi connection in all accommodations
GETTING HERE
Direct flights to Quito, 30-45 min. by car
Excursions & Experiences
What awaits you
Pululahua lies in the heart of Ecuador — a World Natural Heritage site, colonial cities, hot springs, and the Equator are all within reach.
RIGHT HERE
Pululahua Crater
Hikes in the living volcanic crater — right on your doorstep.
30 km
Quito Old Town
UNESCO World Heritage Site, colonial architecture, markets, and restaurants.
~13 km
Mitad Del Mundo
~80 km
Papallacta
~80 km
Mindo Cloud Forest
~170 km
Pacific Coast
~100 km
Cotopaxi
~90 km
Otavalo Market
DOGS WELCOME
A place that loves dogs
Annette is a dog rescuer herself. Rescued dogs and cats live on her property, part of a life that gives animals space.
That is why all guests — whether tourists or long-term residents — are cordially invited to bring their dogs. The grounds offer plenty of space to romp, secure fences, and like-minded people.
Pululahua is a paradise for dogs. Green, quiet, natural — the way life should be.
- Dogs of all sizes are welcome
- Safe, fenced-in grounds
- Annette knows local veterinarians
- Dog food is available locally
- Walks in the crater landscape are possible
STARTING ANEW
Retirement in Ecuador -
more life for less money
A small German, Austrian, or American pension can provide a real standard of living in Pululahua. What would barely cover a one-room apartment in Frankfurt or Vienna allows for a fulfilling life in Ecuador with housekeeping, healthcare, and time for what really matters.
Annette knows the step. She has taken it. And she accompanies people who want to dare it as well.
~$1,200
COMFORTABLE LIVING
70%
CHEAPER THAN EUROPE
30-45 min
TO QUITO
01
Cost of Living
Groceries, restaurant visits, mobility — everything is 60–70% cheaper than in Germany or the USA.
02
Healthcare
Excellent private clinics in Quito at a fraction of European prices. Annette provides contacts.
03
Visa & Residency
Ecuador offers attractive retirement visas. Annette shares her experience and recommends local lawyers.
04
Community
A growing community of expats from Europe and the USA. Not alone, but free.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What people want to know
How do I get to Pululahua?
Pululahua is located 25 km north of Quito. After arriving at Mariscal Sucre Airport (UIO), the drive takes 25–45 minutes depending on traffic. Annette can organize a transfer.
Is the internet in the accommodations good?
Yes. All accommodations have stable Wi-Fi. Remote work is easily possible.
Which dog breeds are allowed?
All breeds are welcome — large, small, young, old. There is only a small dog surcharge of 10 USD per night.
How safe is Ecuador for retirees?
Pululahua is a very quiet, safe region outside the major cities. Annette has lived there herself for years and is happy to assist newcomers with settling in.
Is it possible to buy the accommodations?
Yes, there are also purchase options for the houses and both apartments. Contact Annette directly for details and prices.
What does it cost to live in Pululahua monthly?
A comfortable life is possible from approx. 1,000–1,500 USD/month — including rent, food, mobility, and leisure activities. You can live well on an average German pension.