Christina Monte & Paul Andrade
Things To Do
Cuenca Historic Center
The Historic Center of Cuenca, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO since 1999, has a central area that spans 553 acres. The main tourist features include houses and churches built in the 19th century, as well as museums, markets, parks, squares and the Barranco area, next to the Tomebamba River.
Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción
The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, commonly known as the New Cathedral of Cuenca, is a magnificent Catholic religious building located in the heart Cuenca, Ecuador. It is known for its three blue domes and faces a beautiful park known as el Parque Calderon.
Parque Nacional Cajas
Located in the Andes Mountains (20 min drive outside Cuenca), El Cajas National Park is known for its more than 275 Andean lakes and many waterfalls. The national park is popular for trout fishing, rugged hiking and camping. We recommend hiking shoes (sneakers with some grip are fine), pants, layers, hat, scarf (if it is cold and windy) and a jacket in case it rains.
Turi Viewpoint
Turi is a great place for stunning panoramic views of the city. It is known as "The Balcony of Cuenca". Upon reaching the Turi viewpoint, you will also find a Catholic chapel and some restaurants. It also has a swing that attracts visitors for the thrill of swinging on the edge of the mountain. The city tour on Friday afternoon (see schedule of events) will visit Turi.
Museo Pumapungo
This museum is home to a world class collection of art, artifacts, and more than 20 displays that illustrate the variety of Ecuador's geographical regions. For many visitors, the main draw is the museum's collection of shrunken heads from the Shuar people of the Amazonia.
Ruinas de Ingapirca
Ingapirca is the largest archaeological Inca site in Ecuador and the Temple of the Sun, the most prominent building that remains. It is the only elliptical Incan temple in all of South America.
Piedra de Agua Fuente, Thermal & Spa
Voted the best spa in North and South America, Pedra de Agua is located between the mountains and hot springs of Cuenca, preserving the natural environment and highlighting the wonders of this biodiverse country. Please bring a bathing suit that is dark colored. The red mud baths are lovely but can stain. There is a restaurant here too.