Top Things to do in Cuenca
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What to do and see in Cuenca, Azuay Province: The Best Tours
Writers and poets have long flourished in arts-oriented Cuenca, the country's third-largest city and the capital of the Azuay province. Cafes and galleries are tucked among the narrow cobblestone streets. The main plaza hosts both the old cathedral, started in 1557, the year the city was founded, and the blue-domed Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, dating to 1885. Locally made Panama hats get top billing at the markets, with centrally located Casa de la Mujer a shopping standout.
Restaurants in Cuenca
1. Private Trekking Full-Day Tour at Cajas National Park
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
It will be an unparalleled experience as it will be possible to observe a very diverse fauna, such as Andean condors, giant hummingbirds and coatis. Next to the park, the sanctuary of the Virgen del Cajas is a place of pilgrimage in the open air where they say the Virgin Mary appeared. The main activities practiced are photography, hiking and experiential fishing.
Inclusions: National Park fees, Driver, Professional guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Lunch
Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified, Personal Expenses
Reviewed By daniellD4910OZ
Driver picked us up on time at hotel at 7am and informed us that main road to Cajas was closed due to a mudslide but no problem there's another way that is slightly longer(if you hear that consider not going) it ended up taking 6hrs to get there when normally takes 3hrs or less. Finally reached the park at 1pm to begin hike. Milton our guide met us there and did an awesome job of leading us on a hike. Milton was very engaging and informative and did an excellent job. Finished hike at 4:15 and was advised main road should be open but driver opted to take the alternate route (6hr drive back to Guayaquil arriving back to hotel at 10pm. Fortunately we brought a few snacks as driver never did stop and allow us to eat a meal(supposed to be included) 15hrs without eating can be rough so plan accordingly. Overall the hike part of the trip was awesome and would definitely do it again but like I said, if alternate route is mentioned consider opting out and trying a different day.
2. Gualaceo, Chordeleg, and San Bartolomé from Cuenca
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 6 reviews
In the tour of the artisan villages, you will visit 3 important towns of the province of azuay Gualaceo, Chordeleg, San Bartolome and in each one you will have the opportunity to know about the elaboration of some crafts such as guitars, jewelery or textiles. Also during this day you can admire the beautiful landscape of the Andes mixed with the color of the traditional "cholas cuencanas" that always wear their colorful skirts and shawls, and you will enjoy the old colonial style houses. And for lovers of local food this tour will take you to a local market to enjoy culinary delights.
Inclusions: Lunch, Professional guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transport by private vehicle
Exclusions: Drinks, Tips
Reviewed By catherineagrizzard7
I took the 4 day tour with Edison in May. It was my mom and I’s first time to Ecuador and we never would have been able to see so much without this tour. Everything in Ecuador is truly incredible and on this tour you could see all the best sights in a short time. Our guide, Edison, and our driver Diego made the tour even more enjoyable as they were super fun to be around and incredibly knowledgeable of their country. They have great pride in their country and it’s obvious they love what they do. The tour has got something for everyone. I love active things and there were plenty of opportunities to challenge myself with hiking and adrenaline actives like cable cars and swings over cliffs. My mom loves learning about the culture and we got the opportunity to visit plenty of markets and learn about the natives of Ecuador. Edison really listens to you and makes sure you know that this tour is for you, they really work to make sure you enjoy their country. I’m normally never a “tour” person, I like to backpack. But I loved this experience and would recommend it to anyone looking to experience Ecuador in a short amount of time.
3. Cajas National Park+Turi viewpoint, Day Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 7 reviews
Cajas National Park is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful natural places of Ecuador with more than 200 glacial lakes and a range of alternatives for hiking for everyone. Enjoy the scenery of the Andean Highlands during this private tour designed according to your requirements.
Inclusions: Professional guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transport by private vehicle, All activities, Lunch
Exclusions: Drinks, Tips
Reviewed By catherineagrizzard7
I took the 4 day tour with Edison in May. It was my mom and I’s first time to Ecuador and we never would have been able to see so much without this tour. Everything in Ecuador is truly incredible and on this tour you could see all the best sights in a short time. Our guide, Edison, and our driver Diego made the tour even more enjoyable as they were super fun to be around and incredibly knowledgeable of their country. They have great pride in their country and it’s obvious they love what they do. The tour has got something for everyone. I love active things and there were plenty of opportunities to challenge myself with hiking and adrenaline actives like cable cars and swings over cliffs. My mom loves learning about the culture and we got the opportunity to visit plenty of markets and learn about the natives of Ecuador. Edison really listens to you and makes sure you know that this tour is for you, they really work to make sure you enjoy their country. I’m normally never a “tour” person, I like to backpack. But I loved this experience and would recommend it to anyone looking to experience Ecuador in a short amount of time.
4. Private Shuttle Cuenca to/from Guayaquil
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 9 reviews
Door-to-door private shuttle service between Guayaquil airport/hotel to and from Cuenca. A private shuttle means no stops and only your party is on board. Your schedule is our schedule! Anytime service
Inclusions: All taxes, fees and handling charges, Fuel surcharge, National Park fees, Bottled water, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Private shuttle
Exclusions: Gratuities
Reviewed By julieb1954
Best trip to the airport EVER! My driver, Wilson, was not only an excellant, thoughtful driver, he is an experienced tour guide. He pointed out geographical features throughout the trip. I learned a great deal about beautiful Ecuador. Thank you!
5. El Chorro waterfalls and Busa lake
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 4 reviews
One of the most outstanding waterfalls in Ecuador is the Girón Waterfalls, within this journey we will admire beautiful valleys with cattle, and you will have the opportunity to taste a delicious yogurt typical to the area, site recognized for contributing much of dairy products to the South of the Ecuador, will also have an encounter with the history of Ecuador when we visit the Museum of Treaties located in the canton of Girón and village where can we try a tasty bread known as "achira", produced with a plant typical of the region. Once we arrive to the Girón waterfalls we will enjoy a hike of approximately 3 hours between the first and second waterfall (Considered the highest waterfall in South America), appreciating some birds and native vegetation of this fantastic place which provides water to Girón. We will also visit the Sacred Cañari Lagoon of Busa, a place that encloses the mysticism of the Andean cultures, as was the important Cañari culture
Inclusions: Professional guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transport by private vehicle, All activities, Lunch
Exclusions: Personal expenses, Entrance fee, Tips
Reviewed By catherineagrizzard7
I took the 4 day tour with Edison in May. It was my mom and I’s first time to Ecuador and we never would have been able to see so much without this tour. Everything in Ecuador is truly incredible and on this tour you could see all the best sights in a short time. Our guide, Edison, and our driver Diego made the tour even more enjoyable as they were super fun to be around and incredibly knowledgeable of their country. They have great pride in their country and it’s obvious they love what they do. The tour has got something for everyone. I love active things and there were plenty of opportunities to challenge myself with hiking and adrenaline actives like cable cars and swings over cliffs. My mom loves learning about the culture and we got the opportunity to visit plenty of markets and learn about the natives of Ecuador. Edison really listens to you and makes sure you know that this tour is for you, they really work to make sure you enjoy their country. I’m normally never a “tour” person, I like to backpack. But I loved this experience and would recommend it to anyone looking to experience Ecuador in a short amount of time.
6. Cooking Class & Market Tour in Cuenca
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 5 reviews
Learn about our local cuisine and our organic products. We will visit and purchase some of the items from the local "10 de Agosto market". Then we head to a family house and beginning cooking our own meal!
Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, Market tour, Tour Guide/Driver, All ingredients, Lunch, All taxes, fees and handling charges, Coffee and/or Tea
Exclusions: Gratuities
Reviewed By julieb1954
Best trip to the airport EVER! My driver, Wilson, was not only an excellant, thoughtful driver, he is an experienced tour guide. He pointed out geographical features throughout the trip. I learned a great deal about beautiful Ecuador. Thank you!
7. Full day Cajas National Park
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 8 reviews
Discover the magic of Cajas National Park, one of the most beautiful places in South America, on a full day tour of approximately 8 hours. Explore and learn about the Andean vegetation. In this spectacular place you can enjoy a lake system that has more than 200 lakes of glacial origin. In addition to the beautiful landscape, you can enjoy the presence of beautiful birds, llamas and alpacas. The park is located 30km west of the city of Cuenca, between 3160 and 4450masl, the surface area of the park is 28544 hectares and the ecosystem known as paramo predominates. Experience the authentic!
Inclusions: Professional guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transport by private vehicle, Typical Lunch
Exclusions: Drinks, Tips, Personal expenses
Reviewed By catherineagrizzard7
I took the 4 day tour with Edison in May. It was my mom and I’s first time to Ecuador and we never would have been able to see so much without this tour. Everything in Ecuador is truly incredible and on this tour you could see all the best sights in a short time. Our guide, Edison, and our driver Diego made the tour even more enjoyable as they were super fun to be around and incredibly knowledgeable of their country. They have great pride in their country and it’s obvious they love what they do. The tour has got something for everyone. I love active things and there were plenty of opportunities to challenge myself with hiking and adrenaline actives like cable cars and swings over cliffs. My mom loves learning about the culture and we got the opportunity to visit plenty of markets and learn about the natives of Ecuador. Edison really listens to you and makes sure you know that this tour is for you, they really work to make sure you enjoy their country. I’m normally never a “tour” person, I like to backpack. But I loved this experience and would recommend it to anyone looking to experience Ecuador in a short amount of time.
8. Giron Waterfall and Busa Lake
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
Enjoy a drive among beautiful ranches to reach El Chorro de Giron waterfall where we will hike through the cloud forest. Later we will visit Busa lake where we will do a hike around it.
Inclusions: Hotel pick-up, Licensed tour guide English/Spanish, Transportation, Lunch
Exclusions: Tips (optional), entrance fees and extras., Entrance fee to Waterfall $3 p.p, Entrance fee to Busa lake $2 p.p
Reviewed By julieb1954
Best trip to the airport EVER! My driver, Wilson, was not only an excellant, thoughtful driver, he is an experienced tour guide. He pointed out geographical features throughout the trip. I learned a great deal about beautiful Ecuador. Thank you!
9. 10-Day Ecuador Highlights
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 11 reviews
Discover the MAGIC of ECUADOR traveling through the Avenue of Volcanoes in the high Andes Mountains towards the best tropical Amazon destinations and explore the outdoor town of Baños, Unesco classified city of Cuenca and local indigenous market in Otavalo. On your journey, you will learn about all the different local tribes and their cultures. The Ecuador Highlights trip is the perfect combination of cultural experiences, wildlife spotting, adventure activities, and natural wonders that make Ecuador one of the most mega-divers countries on Earth. "Unique Experiences:" Visit a native local family in the middle of the Amazon jungle and look for the smallest monkey in the world (Pygmy Marmoset) Breathtaking zig-zag train ride through the rocky slopes of the Andes and the switchbacks of the Devil's Nose
Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Transportation: Airfare Cuenca-Quito one way, airport transfers (national flights), private and comfortable land transportation, train, motorized canoe, Accommodation based on double occupancy: First Class hotel in Quito, colonial hacienda in Otavalo, 5-star Spa Resort Papallacta, Itamandi Eco-lodge in the Amazon, 3 or 4 star hotel in Baños, 5-star Andean lodge in Chimborazo, 3 or 4 star hotel in Cuenca, Activities: Indigenous Market, volcanic hot springs, encounter with indigenous people, road of the waterfalls, hiking up the glacier of Chimborazo, trekking, bird watching in the Amazon, canoeing and wildlife observation in the rainforest, Amazoonico Animal Rescue Center, chocolate making with indigenous people, train to Devil's Nose, cultural visit of Cuenca., Gear: hiking sticks, life jackets, Trip Leader: Certified AJ expert English-speaking adventure Trip Leader and local guides
Exclusions: My Own Room supplement, International flights, Airport transfer (international flights), Travel insurance (mandatory), Meals not described in the itinerary, Tips for guides and drivers
Reviewed By imnhoj
It would be hard to pick a favorite activity on this adventure, every day seemed to be better than the last. Climbing cotopaxi to 16k, mountain biking in the Andes, white water rafting, hiking around a volcanic crater lake, the otovalo market, the amazing hike through the rain forest, and exploring Quito. And I don't think we have ever had a better guide, Marcelo was a very knowledgeable and gracious host for his remarkable country. All of our accomodations were top notch and very unique. This trip far exceeded our expectations. If you are looking for an adventure, you will not be disappointed.
10. Ecuador Cheap Customized Tours
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 6 reviews
Because being travelers, we know what is necessary to travel correctly, so Customized tours depending on travelers' preferences, let me know how much time you have and we can make it worth it! While you are here, spend some time in Ecuador! Here you have Quito is the perfect place to learn how the Spanish invasion changes everything about the prehispanic culture, mixing it into a creole style. Nice view of volcanoes and contrast with the modern Quito's city life. Some places/activities' availability may vary. Better to go during weekdays to avoid conglomeration. Keeping all biosafety standards, Covid free service. We take care of each other.
Inclusions:
Exclusions:
Reviewed By Alexa Y
Daniel was a great guide and the drive from Quito was beautiful. The thermal springs and spa itself were amazing! I did the 45 min deep body massage and I highly recommend. If you go on a weekend, I would recommend leaving early, Daniela will work with you to figure out what time you want to leave and how long you want to stay, he is very flexible. If you're interested in Spa treatments, I would schedule them in advance or as soon as you arrive so that you can get the time slot you want. I waited a few hours and it started to get a little more crowded (not full but there were others there) and I hate to wait til the afternoon for my massage. Overall, it was a very relaxing day.
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