Cuenca and Southern Ecuador Tour: Discover Ecuador’s Hidden Gems




About This Trip
Explore the charm of Cuenca and Southern Ecuador on this four-day journey through stunning landscapes, colonial cities, and rich culture. Wander Cuenca’s UNESCO-listed streets, visit the impressive Ingapirca ruins, and hike through the glacial lakes of Cajas National Park. Discover the artisan towns of Gualaceo and Chordeleg, known for their fine crafts, and immerse yourself in the traditions of the Andean communities.
Highlights:
Explore Cuenca’s colonial streets & vibrant artisan markets
Hike through Cajas National Park’s lakes & scenic trails
Visit Gualaceo & Chordeleg – famous for crafts & jewelry
Visit Ingapirca, Ecuador’s largest and best-preserved Inca site.
What’s included
✅ Hotel pick-up/drop-off
✅ Bilingual tour guide (English/Spanish)
✅ Private transport
✅ Entrance fees
✅ Meals as listed in the itinerary
✅ Activities as listed in the itinerary
✅ 3-night accommodation (Based on double or triple occupancy)
✅ Domestic Taxes (If applicable)
Not Included
✘ Tips (optional based on your experience)
✘ Meals not specified
✘ Airfares
✘ Travel Insurance (Contact us for a quote)
✘ Any other service not mentioned herein
What To Expect
Day
1
Transfer In Cuenca City Tour
Upon arrival in Cuenca, your friendly guide will greet you at the airport and accompany you to your hotel, ensuring a warm welcome to Ecuador’s most charming city.
Start your day exploring Cuenca’s UNESCO-listed historic center with an expert English-speaking guide. Visit the picturesque San Sebastian neighborhood, the traditional El Vado area, and the vibrant 10 de Agosto and flower markets. Discover the iconic New Cathedral at Parque Calderón, tour the Homero Ortega Panama Hat factory, and end with breathtaking views from Turi.
In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the city at your own pace or unwind at the relaxing Piedra de Agua Hot Springs.
🍽 Meals: - / - / -
🏨 Overnight in Cuenca
Day
2
Cajas National Park
Begin with a visit to Ingapirca, Ecuador’s largest and best-preserved Inca archaeological site. Explore the fascinating ruins, including the Sun Temple, and learn about the Inca-Cañari heritage from your expert guide.
Continue to Gualaceo and Chordeleg, renowned for their artisanal traditions. Stroll through markets and workshops showcasing exquisite handwoven textiles, silver jewelry, and filigree. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and craftsmanship of these charming Andean villages.
🍽 Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / -
🏨 Overnight in Cuenca
Day
3
Ingapirca + Gualaceo and Chordeleg craft Villages
Our expert naturalist guide will lead you through Cajas National Park, one of Cuenca’s most stunning natural attractions.
Begin with a 1.5-hour hike through the lush ecosystem of the primary cloud forest. Then, explore the intercontinental divide as you embark on an unforgettable hike in the Toreadora area, passing serene lakes and the mystical Polylepis Forest. Along the way, marvel at breathtaking views and the park’s unique flora.
Hike difficulty can be customized with your guide, ensuring an experience suited to your fitness level, the weather, and altitude. Conclude with lunch at a local restaurant, where fresh trout is the specialty. A perfect day immersed in nature!
🍽 Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / -
Drop off at Cuenca Airport
Additional Info
Tour based on two participants minimum, for solo travelers a single traveler supplement applies
Personalize your Ecuador trip anywhere between 2 to 5 days.
Accommodation varies by package: Economy includes tourist-class hotels, Standard features 3-star hotels, and Comfort offers 4-star stays such as Hotel Santa Lucia.
Bookings made within 10 days before arrival are subject to guide availability.
For groups of 1 to 6 passengers, a bilingual tour guide will also serve as a driver.
What to bring
- Walking or hiking shoes
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Swimwear
- Fast-drying clothing
- Raincoat or rain poncho
- Clothes for warm and cool weather
- Warm hat and gloves
Cancellation Policy
Full refund if canceled up to 15 days before the tour start date.

















