Private tour: Daily

Small-Group tour: Wednesday, Friday and Sunday 

Highlights:

 

• Visit the largest archaeological Inca site in Ecuador and the only elliptical temple of the Inca empire.

• Enjoy the beauty of the Ecuadorian Andes while driving through the fertile farm's landscape of the countryside. 

• On Sunday visit the local Cañar Market and immerse yourself into the traditions of the indigenous tribe.

• See how the famous Panama Hats are woven.

 

Description:

 

Ingapirca is Ecuador’s major Inca archeological site.  Sun worshippers built this fortress-temple in Cañar valley in the 15th century.  It is located approximately 50 miles northeast of Cuenca at an elevation of 10,500 feet above sea level.

 

We start our tour by visiting the Sanctuary of The Virgin of the Morning Dew.  This church has a very distinctive gothic architectural style blended into the mountain, dating back to the late 19th century. Next, we will visit an indigenous family where we’ll observe the weaving of Panama hats.  This is one of the most authentic crafts of Southern Ecuador and has a prominent role in the economy of the area.  We continue our tour with a ride through the enchanting highlands, enjoying the beautiful views along the way.

 

Upon arrival at Ingapirca, one of the most important Inca structures is waiting for us – an elliptical platform known as the “Sun’s Temple”.  Next to this, you will be able to see courtyards, terraces, and various other ruins. In order to get a closer look at the local atmosphere, we will take a short hike to observe the Inca Face, a large stone carved mountain. We will stop for lunch at a local restaurant in the area before our return to Cuenca.