Have a comprehensive but leisurely tour (mainly walking) of the colonial city of Cuenca. The tour includes the Plaza of San Sebastián, a colorful artisans' market, and the Museum of Modern Art, which features an excellent collection of contemporary fine art. The original building was the 'House of Temperance' where alcoholics were once shut inside its thick walls in an effort to cure them.
A stop is made at Plaza San Francisco, where the exquisitely embroidered skirts of the 'cholas' (local women) are for sale.
Next is a visit to the flower market at the small plaza in front of the carved stone entrance to the church of El Carmen de la Asunción. From here take a stroll to the main square, which is surrounded by the imposing Blue-Domed Cathedral, the Court of Justice, the Municipal Palace, the Governor’s Palace and the Church of El Sagrario.
In the afternoon, drive up to the hill of Turi to admire the city and have an explanation of Cuenca's geography and history.
Later, visit the Museum of the Central Bank, and its very interesting ethnographic museum featuring life-size figures of the many different Indian groups that inhabit Ecuador.
The last visit is at a workshop where Panama straw hats of the best quality are made.
Start planning your tailor-made trip by contacting one of our Ecuador specialists
These activities are designed to give you the most authentic experiences around where you're staying. We work with local guides, who use their knowledge and often a resident's eye to show you the main sights and more out-of-the-way attractions. Our specialists can suggest tours and activities that will introduce you to the local ways of life.
El Cajas National Park
The El Cajas National Park is a 28,000 hectare area of some 230 lakes and quinoa forest starting at 3,000 meters (10,000 feet) that is home to a variety of wildlife including the Andean Gull, black frogs, hummingbirds and condors as well as a variety of indigenous plants including many rare bromeliads and orchids.
Gualaceo Countryside Tour
The valley of Gualaceo is 22 miles (36 kilometers) from Cuenca, at an elevation of 7,446 feet (2,370 meters) above sea level. The ride starts along the Santa Ana valley and then high in the mountains, through very scenic landscapes, which change at every curb.
You can enjoy this activity as part of the suggested tour below, or we can weave it into a trip shaped entirely around you.
