Why Cuenca is a must-visit in Ecuador?
Cuenca is more than just a UNESCO-listed colonial city—it’s a place where nature and culture flow together, offering a deeply rooted, slow-travel experience for curious explorers. Cuenca is known as the Athens of Ecuador, rich in culture and architectural gems, with one of the best well-preserved colonial downtowns. Visit the captivating attractions of the iconic Cathedral, the flower market, and the Turi viewpoint. Explore the Andean moor at the Cajas National Park or learn more about the Incan culture at the Pumapungo Museum. Also, enjoy the best delicacies in Hosteria Dos Chorreras.
For travelers seeking immersive South American itineraries, Cuenca is a city that will make most visitors fall in love with it.
Diverse Routes & Experiences for Every Interest
What makes Cuenca stand out is its thoughtfully curated tourist routes, offering different ways to experience the city and its surroundings:
Rural & Community Routes
- San Joaquín & the Yanuncay River: Known as the “vegetable pantry of the Austro,” this area showcases local agriculture, Andean cuisine, like the traditional motepillo, and basket and weaving using plant fibers. Also, you can visit the Yanuncay biocorridor with spectacular landscapes and ecological exploration.
- Sayausí: Only 8 km from Cuenca, travelers can engage in hands-on experiences with farming families, surrounded by paramo landscapes, rivers, lagoons, and montane forests.
Cultural & Historical Routes
- Museum Route: Follows the banks of the Tomebamba River in the historic center and offers immersive experiences in art, history, and local crafts.
- French Route: Explores the legacy of the first French Geodesic Mission, offering a unique angle on the French influence in the architecture and cultural heritage of Cuenca.
- Religious Route: This route explores highlights churches and sanctuaries filled with colonial art and deep spiritual significance that shape the city.
Artisanal Routes & Culinary Experiences
- Artisanal Route: Cuenca is famous for its handicrafts and artisanal traditions. Including textile craftsmanship, especially the production of shawls and other handwoven goods in Gualaceo. The exceptional craftsmanship in jewelry-making, particularly in silver and gold filigree, is found in Chordeleg. Also, ceramics and a visit to the Panama Hat factory to learn about the handmade production of these iconic Ecuadorian hats.
- Mills and bread Route: Features traditional bakeries and historic mills linked to the Festival of Bread and the Museum of Las Conceptas.
- From Street food to fine dining: Cuenca’s culinary scene is a fusion of traditional Ecuadorian fare and innovative international cuisine. Whether your clients are foodies seeking gourmet experiences or travelers eager to try authentic flavors, the city offers something for every palate.
Archeological Route
From the Pumapungo Archaeological Park to Ingapirca Complex, this route connects travelers to Ecuador’s Cañari and Inca roots, providing insights into ancient settlements, ceremonial spaces, rituals, and unique sites such as the Inca Sun Temple, perfect for cultural explorers.
Adventure & Natural Surroundings
Visit the Cajas National Park, a protected area with several ecosystems and landscapes. Definitely, the main attractions are hiking in the wetland landscapes with mountain peaks and ice rocks, including dark lakes. Take advantage of this by enjoying watching some incredible Andean species.
Tips & Recommendations
- Best time to visit: Cuenca is a year-round destination, but the dry season (June–September) offers sunny, stable weather ideal for walks and excursions. Also, in the first week of November, during Cuenca’s Independence Day is a must to enjoy parades, concerts, and artisan fairs.
- How to get to Cuenca? It is easily accessible by air or road trip to enjoy the southern part of the Avenue of Volcanoes, which passes through iconic highlights such as Ilinizas or Cotopaxi volcanoes.
- Pack appropriate clothing: Cuenca has a temperate climate with mild temperatures. Pack layers and a light jacket for cooler evenings, as well as comfortable shoes.
- The local currency is the US dollar. Carry some cash for small purchases and local markets.
- Cuenca is at about 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) above sea level. Take it easy on your first day to acclimate.
Contact us to include Cuenca in your Ecuador programs for experiences your clients will truly remember. The calm streets, the warm people, the natural landscapes, and cultural heritage—it’s all there. And it’s what makes travelers come back.
Published in November 2025
