THE BEST OF CUENCA – 3 DAYS

Discover this city which was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1999 and is considered the cultural metropolis and center of artistic crafts of Ecuador.

Day 1: Cuenca

In the morning, visit Cuenca, on foot, observing the river, Tomebamba, which runs along the town with a view of the old houses perched on high cliffs, above the bank of the river, a unique environment, with its colonial stone bridges, the modern and the old estate. Stroll the impressive ruins of the Inca-Cañari Pumapungo Palace, which sits in the heart of Cuenca. We will discover the city’s main attractions, including the Museum of Modern Art, new cathedral, the flower market and the Barranco. Take advantage, after a short drive, of Turi Hill, to take panoramic photos of the city. And, to complete your stay in Cuenca, visit a ceramic art gallery, or fine pottery workshops. We also visit the famous Panama Hat and factory museums. Free time in the afternoon to visit places of personal interest. Night in Cuenca.

Day 2: Ingapirca, Inca archaeological site

After breakfast, we will head north for about an hour and a half to Ingapirca. Here we are going to ask the Sun God of the Incas to stay away, so you can enjoy this little remnant of the Inca Empire under a misty sky! (He frequently grants these requests!) The temple/fortress has been restored and enhanced that over the centuries has served for spiritual rituals for the Cañari culture. What remains is, just a hint of what it once was, an important link in the Inca imperial chain that stretched from Cuzco to Quito. It’s not Machu Picchu, but it’s worth a visit! Lunch in the area and return to Cuenca in the afternoon.

Day 3: Cajas National Park

After breakfast, we will take the road west to visit the Cajas National Park, located thirty minutes from Cuenca. Here you will find a network, of around 200 lakes, formed during the last ice age, which today have created a vast recreational area. The park itself is located at an average altitude of 3000m. Small rivers connect the series of lakes and these eventually flow into the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. After hiking through one of the nearby lakes, you will continue towards Guayaquil, driving through the mountains on the way, leading you towards the Pacific coast. Or return to Quito by plane.