Guayaquil to Cuenca Tour: Explore Ecuador’s Scenic Andes & Colonial Gems
About This Trip
Cuenca is located in the south of Ecuador. It is considered to be the most picturesque city in the country and UNESCO World Heritage site. Our tour takes us to explore the highlights in the area in this very convenient trip from Guayaquil.
Highlights:
Explore Cuenca, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Visit the largest Inca-Canari archaeological site in Ecuador.
Enjoy a hassle-free experience with our dedicated tour guide/driver.
Experience beautiful nature during a hiking day tour in Cajas National Park.
What’s included
✅ Hotel pick-up/drop-off
✅ Private tour guide/driver (English/Spanish)
✅ Private transportation
✅ Entrance fees
✅ Meals: Breakfast 2 / Lunch 2
✅ Activities as listed in the itinerary
✅ 2-night accommodation (Based on double or triple occupancy)
✅ Domestic Taxes (If applicable)
Not Included
✘ Tips (optional based on your experience)
✘ Meals not specified
✘ Travel Insurance (Contact us for a quote)
✘ Any other service not mentioned herein
What To Expect
Day
1
Transfer to CUE & City Tour
Begin your tour in San Sebastian, a historic neighborhood marking Cuenca’s western colonial border. Explore the vibrant San Francisco Market, the picturesque Flower Market, and Abdon Calderon Park. Visit the iconic Old Cathedral (El Sagrario) and the New Cathedral, one of Latin America’s largest churches, featuring a stunning gold-leaf altar.
Continue to a Panama hat factory, where you'll observe the intricate process of crafting hats from “paja toquilla,” ranging from simple to elegant designs. Then, visit El Barranco, a charming area of terraced houses along the Tomebamba River. End the day at Turi Viewpoint, where you’ll take in breathtaking views of Cuenca’s stunning landscape.
🍽 Meals: - / Lunch / -
🏨 Overnight in Cuenca
Day
2
Ingapirca + Gualaceo and Chordeleg craft Villages
🍽 Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / -
🏨 Overnight in Cuenca
Day
3
Cuenca - Cajas - Guayaquil
Experience the stunning contrasts between the Ecuadorian Andes and lowlands on this scenic journey. Begin with a drive through the majestic Andes to the Toreadora Refuge in Cajas National Park, where you’ll have the option to hike through the unique Polylepis Forest and Moorland ecosystems, surrounded by tranquil lakes.
Cross the continental divide and descend to the lush lowlands, stopping to enjoy the breathtaking scenery (weather permitting). Visit a local family farm to learn about cacao production and sample fresh bananas, coffee, passion fruit, pineapple, and more. Conclude your adventure with a transfer to your hotel or Guayaquil Airport.
🍽 Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / -
Drop off in Guayaquil
Additional Info
Tour based on two participants, for solo travelers, a single traveler supplement applies
Personalize your Ecuador trip anywhere between 2 to 5 days.
Accommodation varies by package: Economy class includes tourist-class hotels, Standard tour features 3-4 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.
