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red car parked in front of white concrete building during daytime
red car parked in front of white concrete building during daytime - Photo by Juan Ordonez

Experience What Makes Cuenca, Ecuador One of the Top Dest

About Cuenca, Ecuador

Cuenca, Ecuador is a charming city filled with colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and beautiful churches. Located in the Andes Mountains, visitors can enjoy stunning views, delicious cuisine, and a thriving arts scene. Cuenca is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and culture of Ecuador.

Cuenca, Ecuador is a hidden gem in the Andes Mountains, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and adventure. Known for its stunning colonial architecture, Cuenca is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the culture and history of Ecuador.

Located in the southern part of the country, Cuenca is known for its mild climate, making it a great destination for year-round travel. Visitors can explore the city's many museums, galleries, and historic sites, including the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Museum of Aboriginal Cultures.

For those looking for outdoor adventure, Cuenca offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The nearby Cajas National Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with its stunning mountain scenery, crystal-clear lakes, and diverse wildlife.

Cuenca is also known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, with many festivals and events taking place throughout the year. The International Art Biennial, the Cuenca Flower Festival, and the Corpus Christi Festival are just a few of the many events that draw visitors from around the world.

When it comes to food, Cuenca is a foodie's paradise, offering a wide range of traditional Ecuadorian dishes as well as international cuisine. Visitors can sample local specialties such as cuy (roasted guinea pig), llapingachos (potato pancakes stuffed with cheese and served with avocado and sausage), and churrasco (grilled steak).

Overall, Cuenca, Ecuador is a destination that has something for everyone, from history buffs to adventure seekers to foodies. With its stunning scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture, it's no wonder that Cuenca is quickly becoming one of South America's top travel destinations.

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Popular Stays in Cuenca, Ecuador

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in Cuenca, Ecuador

Located in Cuenca, only 2 km from the downtown, Santiago De Compostella Suites Hotel provides accommodation with a restaurant and bar on site. Guests are offered free WiFi access, free parking on site with prior reservation and a complimentary breakfast, which is served daily. Rooms in Santiago de Compostella Suites Hotel are equipped with a bathroom with free toiletries, a dining area with a dining table, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and a safety-deposit box . Towels are provided. Rooms provide garden and mountain views. The property features a hot tub, which guests can book in advance at an extra fee. The property also has a fitness centre, available for guest use. Guests may also make use of the communal facilities, such as the terrace, the garden and the shared lounge. At Santiago De Compostella Suites Hotel you will find a 24-hour front desk.
The 2-star TRYP by Wyndham Cuenca Zahir offers comfort and convenience whether you're on business or holiday in Cuenca. The property offers a wide range of amenities and perks to ensure you have a great time. Service-minded staff will welcome and guide you at TRYP by Wyndham Cuenca Zahir. Comfortable guestrooms ensure a good night's sleep with some rooms featuring facilities such as flat screen television, internet access – wireless (complimentary), desk. The property offers various recreational opportunities. Friendly staff, great facilities, and close proximity to all that Cuenca has to offer are three great reasons you should stay at TRYP by Wyndham Cuenca Zahir.
Residing in a renovated colonial home, Selina Cuenca will transport you back in time. Get lost looking at the surrounding murals, listening to the music that fills the streets, and eating traditional gastronomic delights. This is the perfect place to fulfill your artistic heart's desires. Cuenca is a cultural gem and is easily one of Ecuador's most heartwarming destinations. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this city is known for it's important colonial buildings and history. Take in stunning sights of the skyline before shopping the many craft traditions, including ceramics, metalwork and the famous panama hat. Cuenca is a bustling, bohemian city full of art, culture, and tradition.
The Hotel Santa Lucia is located in one of the most beautiful areas of historical, commercial and financial center of Cuenca. The hotel Republican house dating from 1859, has been restored with beautiful period details.

Things to do in Cuenca, Ecuador

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in Cuenca, Ecuador

The Cajas National Park, has a lake system of more than 160 lagoons, with a unique landscape. In our visit we characterize the high Andean forest where we have a large number of birds and a unique flora; We also characterize the moorland ecosystem where we will visit the polylepis forest and perform an environmental interpretation of these sites while our tourists enjoy the landscapes offered by the national park
We are the only company that visits the Cajas National Park on the panoramic double-decker bus. If you like peace and nature this is the Ideal Tour, in this tour we will visit the Toreadora lagoon and we will have a 1h40 minute walk in which the guide will explain to us about the history and traditions that this park has for the ecosystem and the importance for the city of Cuenca. On the walk we will observe a bit of the flora and if we are lucky the fauna, additionally we have a spectacular view of the lagoons of the Park.
With this two day tour you can enjoy the most popular places to visit while you are in Cuenca. It is a tour for all tastes, you can enjoy history while walking through the Inca ruins, gastronomy while you are in Gualaceo, shopping on your visit to Chordeleg and for nature lovers there is the Cajas National Park. We have everything for all tastes
Visit the cultural heritage city of Ecuador and its surroundings. Cuenca is one of the most beautiful and colonial cities in South America, where four rivers cross it. Visit markets or craft centers where textile garments whose tradition dates back several centuries are still made. Find out where the gold was carved into rings, earrings or chains. Be surprised to find an ancient Inca complex dating back to the XVI century. Walk inside the Cajas National Park to learn more about its freshwater springs, its flora and fauna. Walk through the narrow streets of a colonial city and visit the largest cathedral in Ecuador.
Explore one of the most spectacular parks in Ecuador on our half-day tour from Cuenca. Hike through the park's grasslands and its landscape surrounded by lakes, paramo vegetation, llamas, ancient Polylepis trees. A great option hikers, nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Enjoy our hiking adventure with small group in Cajas National Park! We visit the intercontinental water division and then Toreadora refuge to take a hike through the highlands to explore the Cajas lake system and the unique Polylepis Forest. Afterward, we will visit the Llaviuco montane forest for a second hike.
Experience the contrast between the green highlands, dry desert, and the dense tropical area. Discover the flavors, aromas and taste of the Ecuadorian Cacao know as one of the best in the world. You will experience a chocolate tasting as well.

Why People Love Cuenca, Ecuador

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in Cuenca, Ecuador

M
M257JBj_rgenh
5
Oct 2022
I visited the Cajas National Park together with Alejandro Espinoza , he is a very experienced tour guide and a smart and friendly person in one. I really enjoyed this day
P
Passenger38881561969
5
Oct 2022
Although weather was not on our side, we had the best possible experience I’d say. Our guide Alejandro as well as the woman driving were extremely friendly. Due to issues with our pick up Alejandro even jumped in as a guide and did the tour just with my friend and me despite his only day off. He ...
C
cmike6578
5
Nov 2022
Breathtaking experience and I would definitely recommend others to book this tour. The weather was unpredictable so it's best to dress in layers. Moses was a great tour guide and I enjoyed the hike.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Cuenca

What are some of the must-visit attractions in Cuenca, Ecuador?

Cuenca, Ecuador is a beautiful city with many must-visit attractions. Some of the top attractions include the New Cathedral, the Old Cathedral, the Pumapungo Museum and Archaeological Park, and the Mirador de Turi. The New Cathedral is a stunning piece of architecture that dominates the city skyline. The Old Cathedral is equally beautiful, and is now a museum. The Pumapungo Museum and Archaeological Park is a great place to learn about the history of the region, while the Mirador de Turi offers incredible views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

What are some popular activities to do in Cuenca, Ecuador?

There are many popular activities to do in Cuenca, Ecuador. Some of the top activities include exploring the city's historic architecture and museums, hiking in the nearby Cajas National Park, and visiting the Ingapirca ruins. Cuenca is also known for its markets, where you can find some of the best handicrafts in Ecuador.

What is the best time of year to visit Cuenca, Ecuador?

The best time to visit Cuenca, Ecuador is from June to September, which is the dry season. During this time, the weather is mild and sunny, making it perfect for exploring the city and surrounding areas. The rest of the year is the rainy season, which can make outdoor activities more difficult.

What are some good restaurants in Cuenca, Ecuador?

Cuenca, Ecuador has a great food scene with many delicious restaurants to choose from. Some of the top restaurants include Tiesto's, Raymipampa, and El Mercado. Tiesto's is known for its traditional Ecuadorian cuisine and cozy atmosphere, while Raymipampa is known for its live music and eclectic menu. El Mercado is a great place to try a variety of local dishes and is located in a beautiful old building.

What are some good accommodations in Cuenca, Ecuador?

Cuenca, Ecuador has many great accommodations to choose from. Some of the top options include Hotel Santa Lucia, Casa San Rafael, and Mansion Alcazar. Hotel Santa Lucia is a beautiful historic hotel located in the heart of the city, while Casa San Rafael is a cozy bed and breakfast with a great location. Mansion Alcazar is a luxurious hotel with beautiful gardens and a rooftop terrace.

What is the currency used in Cuenca, Ecuador?

The currency used in Cuenca, Ecuador is the US dollar. It is recommended to bring cash with you, as credit cards are not accepted everywhere.

What is the best way to get around in Cuenca, Ecuador?

The best way to get around in Cuenca, Ecuador is by foot or by taxi. The city is very walkable, and most of the top attractions are located within the historic city center. Taxis are also a good option, and are relatively cheap.

What is the weather like in Cuenca, Ecuador?

Cuenca, Ecuador has a mild and cool climate year-round, with temperatures averaging around 60 degrees Fahrenheit. The rainy season is from October to May, with the most rain falling in December and January. The dry season is from June to September, with the most sunshine and mild temperatures.

What are some good day trips from Cuenca, Ecuador?

There are many great day trips from Cuenca, Ecuador. Some of the top options include visiting the nearby Cajas National Park, exploring the Ingapirca ruins, and visiting the nearby town of Gualaceo, which is known for its beautiful textiles and handicrafts.

What is the language spoken in Cuenca, Ecuador?

The official language of Cuenca, Ecuador is Spanish. Some people also speak Quechua, which is an indigenous language.