2-day Cuenca, Inca Ruins and Cajas National Park

Explore Cuenca’s colonial charm, ancient Inca ruins, and Cajas National Park’s natural beauty. Discover markets, crafts, and Ecuador’s largest cathedral in 2 days.

Duration: 2 days
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights

Cuenca City – Gualaceo – Chordeleg – Ingapirka – Cuenca City

Cuenca - Departure from Cuenca to head towards the towns of Gualaceo and Chordeleg. We will drive on the Pan-American highway.

Gualaceo - Our first stop will be at the textile craft center.In this artisan workshop, we will learn about the elaboration of the makanas (handmade textiles) with sheep wool or cotton. Tradition and knowledge that has been transmitted from generation by generation.

Chordeleg - In Chordeleg, we will visit the shops where the gold and silver jewelry that is made in this parish is offered. You will be surprised with the prices and the quality of the gold that they offer here. We will continue with our trip towards the north of the basin. We will pass through several different Andean landscapes full of green grasslands.

Ingapirca Archaeological Complex - Our next activity will be the visit to the Inca ruins in Ingapirca. This is an archaeological site for ceremonies, sun worship and an ancestral cemetery. We will visit this great complex through several trails that were once used by the Incas who came from Peru. After this great experience, we will return to Cuenca city.

Cuenca - Drop off at the hotel

Cuenca City – Cajas National Park – Cuenca walking Tour

Parque Nacional Cajas - This day will be a day of nature and walks. We will go to the Cajas National Park. We will walk along the trails to observe various species of plants and identify the most important ones. The tour will be for around 45 minutes where, in addition to learning more about this important ecosystem of the Andes, we will also be able to take spectacular photos that will remind us of this visit forever.

Cuenca - We will return to the city for a walking tour in Cuenca. Here we will learn more about the cathedral, its architectural styles and its history. We visit the flower market and taste a delicious coffee and then return to the hotel.

What's Included
  • Comfortable transportation for long trips
  • Certified Naturalist Guide/Driver (English-speaking)
  • Breakfast
  • Activities as per program
What's Not Included
  • Travel Insurance
  • Tips and entrance fees
  • Meals not mentioned
Additional Information

Explore the cultural heritage city of Ecuador and its surroundings. Cuenca stands out as one of the most stunning and colonial cities in South America, intersected by four rivers. Wander through markets or craft centers where traditional textile garments, with a history spanning several centuries, are still produced. Discover the places where gold was intricately crafted into rings, earrings, or chains. Be amazed by an ancient Inca complex dating back to the 16th century. Stroll through Cajas National Park to learn about its freshwater springs, diverse flora, and fauna. Meander through the narrow streets of this colonial city and visit Ecuador’s largest cathedral.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
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Jos_ll4747hv
Jul 5, 2023
Spectacular city with impressive nature - Touring the city was wonderful, my wife and daughters enjoyed the city, its architecture, the giant church, the flower square, it was the most striking thing in the city. A very welcoming city and the hotel where, we spent the night was very comfortable, clean and with a good breakfast. The other sites, we visited were also incredible, like the traditional textile workshop, the town where they sell jewelry was also fun. The very impressive Inca ruins, and above all our guide told us the history of the place. The next day, we went for a walk through a nature reserve where there were many lagoons, despite the cold we were able to walk and learn more about the place with the guide, we really had a very nice experience in Cuenca.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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up to 8 guests
1 Adult
September 2024
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