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Cuenca

Ecuador, South America

Cuenca, Ecuador, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its stunning colonial architecture, vibrant arts scene, and rich cultural heritage. Walk the picturesque streets lined with whitewashed buildings, visit the iconic Cajas National Park for breathtaking landscapes, and immerse yourself in the local markets brimming with handmade crafts. The city's unique blend of Incan and Spanish influences creates a captivating atmosphere, perfect for history buffs and adventurers alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Mariscal Lamar

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

8 Best Things to Do in Cuenca

1. Explore the Historic Center

Wander through Cuenca's UNESCO-listed colonial architecture.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

2. Visit the Cajas National Park

Experience stunning landscapes and hiking trails.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

4 hrs

3. Discover the Panama Hat Factory

Learn the art of making traditional Panama hats.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

4. Stroll along Tomebamba River

Enjoy scenic views along the picturesque riverside.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

5. Visit the Museo de las Culturas Aborígenes

Explore indigenous history and artifacts in Cuenca.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

6. Enjoy local cuisine at Mercado 10 de Agosto

Taste authentic Ecuadorian dishes at this vibrant market.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

7. Visit the New Cathedral of Cuenca

Marvel at the stunning architecture of this iconic church.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

8. Take a day trip to Ingapirca Ruins

Explore the largest Inca ruins in Ecuador.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

5 hrs

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Included in bill

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

3 (#44 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

US Dollar

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Encebollado

Fish stew with yuca and onions (National dish)

Ceviche

Citrus-marinated seafood dish

Llapingachos

V

Potato patties served with peanut sauce

Hornado

Roasted pork with crispy skin

Seco de Chivo

Goat stew with spices and beer

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)