Explore Cuenca and its Surroundings
The city of Cuenca, properly called "Santa Ana de los Cuatro Ríos de Cuenca," is a thoroughly charming colonial city set in the Andes mountains in the south of Ecuador. Reachable by air (45 minutes) or bus (8 hours) from Quito, it is easy to spend a week in Cuenca to experience its relaxed atmosphere and tranquil historic ambience.
Around Cuenca there are a number of exciting places to visit if you want to get out of the city for a day or two to explore archeological ruins or national parks (see the list below).
"I fell in love with Cuenca after a couple of days just wandering around there. It's elegant streets are fun to wander around to take in the daily life that goes on there. Although it is tranquil it is also quite busy, especially in the markets and central streets."
You can learn Spanish in Cuenca too while you visit places of interest with a teacher by studing in our professional Spanish school there. Click here to learn more.
Some of the best places to visit in Cuenca are: the Parque Calderón, the Cathedral of the Imaculada, the Tomebamba river, Pumapungo museum and archeological park, Del Sagrario, thermal baths in Cuenca, Amaru zoo, Turi lookout, museum of indigenous cultures, museum de las Coneptas, tour a Panama hat workshop, church Iglesia de la Asunción, museum of modern art, Remigio Crespo musuem, Plaza Civica, skeleton musuem,
| Ingapirca inca ruins | Ecuador´s most impressive Inca ruins. Spend a day exploring the history of the Incas in Ecuador at this high elevation site an hour and a half from Cuenca |
|---|---|
| Los Baños de los incas | Another Inca site close to Cuenca in the town of Tambo. Ride a restored railway the short distance to this archeological site |
| Cajas national park | A beautiful national park near Cuenca with some spectacular views and great hiking |
| Chorro waterfall and Yunguilla valley | A picturesque spot close to Cuenca where you can enjoy the tranquility of nature |
| Gualaceo and Chordeleg | Crafts producing villages near Cuenca. Visit these villages to haggle for souvenirs as well as seeing the items being produced. |
| The Devil's Nose Train Ride | Ride the train through spectacular countryside along a track that represents a significant engineering feat, and experience local culture with traditional songs and dance at the destination. |
The above day trips generally cost between $40 - $60 depending on distance and time. There may be other entry fees not included in this price. We will be happy to supply you with more information and to make any necessary reservations for you.