The city of Cuenca is unique in many ways, the main characteristics being the cordial and friendly people proudly showing off their colonial streets, architecture and impressive cathedrals. Cuenca was recently declared Patrimony of Humankind. A city tour will allow us to visit the most important sites, like the Cathedral, Calderon Park, Turi Lookout, the famous “Panama Hat” factory and the Flower market. Cuenca is also known for its wide variety of handicrafts, like Marble, ceramics and fine jewelry of gold and silver. The Colonial charm and friendly people make Cuenca a recommended place to include in your visit.
Return to hotel 1:00-2:00.
C 02 – CAJAS NATIONAL PARK
08:00 Hotel Pick up.
The Cajas National Park is where the winds from the East meet the winds of the West and the Heavens meet the Earth. A place where the Andean Paramo is expressed at its best. Its flora and fauna are considered unique in the world; the Andean landscapes are perfect for those lovers of photography. The main highlight of the park are the serene, misty lakes nestled amongst jagged peaks. A must in the Cuenca region.
Return to hotel 3:00-4:00.
Includes Lunch
C 03 – GUALACEO AND CHORDELEG
08:00 Hotel Pick up.
This trip will take us through a deep gorge and rolling hills, speckled with colorful towns and mosaic agricultural plots until we reach the village of Gualaceo with its lively produce market and workmanship of handicrafts. From there we will continue to Chorldeleg or “ the Gold & Silver fair”. We will also visit the community museum where we will find samples of all the handmade pieces such as ceramics, objects made with straw, gold and silver. Afternoon return to Cuenca.
Return to hotel 3:00-4:00. Includes Lunch
C 04 – INGAPIRCA RUINS
08:00 Hotel Pick up.
This trip will take us through indigenous communities, speckled with colorful people and mosaic fields of all colors and shapes. The Ingapirca ruins are the most important ruins in Ecuador, built first by the Cañari people until they were conquered by the Inca peoples, who flourished in the area until the arrival of the Spaniards. Amongst the most important structures is the elliptic temple for the Sun. This is another must visit from Cuenca.
Return to hotel 3:00-4:00. Includes Lunch
Overnight trip to this area is also available, so you can enjoy the ruins to yourself after everybody leaves.