Cuenca Travel Guide

Explore the best things to do, see, and eat, in Cuenca, Ecuador, a vibrant city with rich cultural heritage and natural beauty in South America. Discover must-visit museums, scenic hiking trails, local cuisine, and more.


Introduction to Cuenca

Cuenca is a charming colonial city snuggled in the Andean Highlands, in Ecuador, South America. Also referred to as the Athens of Ecuador, Cuenca is well-known for its rich cultural heritage and striking landmarks. It is a city full of character, with beautiful, well-preserved architecture that earned it a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999.

Cuenca boasts natural splendor, from crystal-clear rivers flowing down mountainous slopes to the majestic Western Andes that fringe the city. It is an adventurer’s paradise with plenty of hiking trails, outdoor activities, and scenic sights.

List of Places to Visit in Cuenca

  • Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places:

    No trip to Cuenca is complete without visiting its culturally essential sites. Here are some places to visit:

    • Museo de las Conceptas: This museum, located in a colonial-era convent, has a fantastic collection of artistic and religious artifacts. Visitors can view paintings, carvings, and preserved religious ceremonies.

    • Museo Puma Pungo: This museum is home to several collections tied to the history of Cuenca and its people. It showcases fine Ecuadorian handicrafts, pottery, and stonework, as well as textiles, artworks, and archaeological relics.

    • Parque Calderon: This iconic square is at the very heart of Cuenca’s historic district. It is surrounded by old colonial buildings, an imposing cathedral, and a museum.

  • Natural Attractions of Cuenca: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views:

    Cuenca’s natural beauty and the vast outdoors provide an excellent opportunity for adventure-seeking travelers to explore. Here are some sights worth considering:

    • Machángara River: This renowned, crystal-clear river is an excellent place to enjoy water activities like rafting, kayaking, and swimming.

    • Cajas National Park: Located near Cuenca, the park spans nearly 29,000 hectares of lush, subalpine tundra, crystal-clear lakes, and snow-capped mountains, providing an easy escape from the city. It is an excellent location for hiking or trekking.

  • Hiking/Biking Routes of Cuenca:

    Cuenca provides an excellent opportunity for hiking and biking enthusiasts to explore the vicinity with some popular routes such as:

    • Llaviucu Lake: This route goes through some of the most picturesque towns around Cuenca, such as Sayausí and Molleturo, eventually leading you to the magnificent Llaviucu Lake.

    • El Cajas National Park: With many trails suitable for all levels of hikers, El Cajas National Park has something for everyone. Explore the tundra, crystal-clear lakes, snow-capped mountains, and diverse wildlife.

  • Best Things to Do in Cuenca: Activities and Tours:

    Some of the must-do activities and tours in Cuenca are:

    • Visit the Characteristic Mercados: Mercados are a series of colorful, open-air markets. Here is where you will find an array of locally grown fruits, vegetables, and native Ecuadorian souvenirs and trinkets. Among them, the most famous are “Mercado 10 de Agosto” and “Mercado Artesanal.”

    • Experience the Art Scene: Cuenca is famous for its flourishing art scene. Explore the numerous art galleries, art schools and attend art exhibitions are held throughout the city.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cuenca

Day 1: Start with a city tour. Visit some of Cuenca’s famous landmarks, such as the Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción and the New Cathedral. Have lunch at one of the seafood restaurants in the La Rotonda district.

Day 2: Head to El Cajas National park and hike the trails. In the evening return to your hotel in Cuenca.

Day 3: Take in some traditional Ecuadorian cuisines in the city’s famous Mercados. Visit the Museo de las Conceptas, Parque Calderon, and walk-through Calle Larga, an upbeat and lively street packed with restaurants, bars, and shops.

Day 4: Head to the historic sites such as Ingapirca, a little over an hour outside of Cuenca. It is the most famous Inca archaeological site in Ecuador.

Day 5: Take a day trip to Vilcabamba, a village in the Loja province known for its scenic beauties and the famous Vilcabamba Valley. Spend the day, soaking up the tranquility and breathtaking sunsets.

Day 6: Go to the Balneario de Cuñapi, known for the hot springs. Visit the Turi viewpoint in the evening, offering a stunning panoramic view of the city.

Day 7: Enjoy the last day by exploring some more local art galleries and shopping centres. End the week by trying some famous local cuisine and savoring one last Ecuadorian dish.

Food and Drink Scene of Cuenca

  • Must-Try Dishes:

    • Locro de Papas: A rich and creamy soup made with potatoes, cheese, avocado, and spices.

    • Ceviche: Fresh seafood cured in lime juice, mixed with onions, tomatoes, and cilantro.

    • Llapingachos: A popular street food dish, consisting of fried mashed potatoes stuffed with cheese and served with avocado, chorizo, and peanut sauce.

  • Local Beverages:

    • Canelazo: A warm, sweet, and spicy beverage made with cane sugar, cinnamon, and a splash of fiery alcohol.

    • Chicha: A fermented beverage made from maize.

Where to Stay in Cuenca: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Santa Lucía Cuenca: A 5-star hotel located downtown, boasts beautifully curated rooms with breathtaking scenic views.

  • Selina Cuenca: A trendy and vibrant hostel located in the heart of the Cuenca city centre.

  • Guesthouse Ikala: An eco-friendly guesthouse on the outskirts of Cuenca that immerses you in a serene, natural environment.

What to Buy in Cuenca: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Panama Hats: Originating from Ecuador, Panama hats are a must-buy in Cuenca, where they are handwoven and sold for a reasonable price.

  • Handicrafts: From embroidered textiles to intricate wood carvings, Cuenca is home to talented indigenous artisans who produce an array of beautiful handicrafts.

Local Culture and Customs of Cuenca

Cuenca is a city steeped in culture, and the locals are proud of their traditions. A unique feature is the vibrant and colorful clothes that the indigenous people wear, especially the women’s long, flowy skirts, and shawls.

Best Time to Visit Cuenca

The best time to visit Cuenca is during the shoulder season of October through November as the weather is perfect, and there are usually fewer tourists.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cuenca

  • Do:

    • Respect the locals and their customs.

    • Try local foods and interact with the indigenous community.

    • Dress conservatively when visiting churches or other religious monuments.

  • Don’t:

    • Disrespect the indigenous culture or use their customs for photographs.

    • Disturb the natural environment or wildlife.

Safety and Health

  • Safety in Cuenca

    Cuenca is generally a safe and friendly city for tourists. However, visitors should still remain vigilant at all times, especially when walking in the city center at night.

  • Health in Cuenca

    There are no major health risks associated with travelling to Cuenca. However, visitors should take precautions like carrying bottled water and sunscreen.

Getting to Cuenca: Transportation Options and Logistics

  • Airports Near Cuenca

    The closest airport to Cuenca is the Mariscal Lamar International Airport located on the outskirts of the city center.

  • Bus Stations Near Cuenca

    The city has a reliable bus system, with the terminal being in the city center. The buses are usually modern with air-conditioning and heated seats.

  • Other Options

    Taxis and private transfers are also available, and it’s essential to agree on the price before starting the trip.

How to Get Around in Cuenca

Cuenca is a walkable city, but visitors can also use the local public transportation system, taxis, and bike rentals.

Where to Go Next from Cuenca: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Quito: Ecuador’s capital city is rich in history, culture, and architecture.

  • Guayaquil: The country’s largest city, is located in a strategic spot on the coast.

  • Baños: This city is famous for its natural hot springs and is located at the foothills of the Tungurahua volcano.

Conclusion

Cuenca is an ideal destination for travelers interested in exploring Ecuador’s natural beauty, history, and culture. Visitors can expect to experience a blend of ancient and modern influences, vibrant colors, and an array of adventures that cater to all interests. Use this guide to plan your itinerary and make the most of your trip to Cuenca, Ecuador!

Iglesia de Santo Domingo Iglesia de Santo Domingo New Cathedral New Cathedral Ingapirca Ingapirca