Day Trips from Cuenca, Ecuador
Chordeleg, Ingapirca Inca ruins, Cajas National Park and More
From bird-watching and camping to shopping for handmade jewelry, there is something for everyone in the towns and countryside surrounding Cuenca.
Cuenca, named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1999, offers museums, churches, and lush gardens featuring local flora, and there is even more to see in the surrounding areas. Explore Inca ruins, visit charming towns known for their handicrafts, and experience the great outdoors by visiting a national park.
Gualaceo
At about 36 km from the city of Cuenca, one runs across the lovely subtropical valley of Gualaceo. Its Sunday market features hand-woven macanas (shawls), colorful belts, locally manufactured shoes and other leather goods. Visitors may take a dip in the river that runs through the town or walk along the flower-filled paths of this sleepy little valley town.
Chordeleg
Ten minutes from Gualaceo is Chordeleg, a pre-Incan town full of archaeological treasures. Artisans sell handcrafted ponchos, ceramics, embroidery, and pottery. The town is most famous for its gold and silver filigree, however, which can be bought at a very reasonable price.
Ingapirca
Believed to be an administrative and religious center of the Incas, Ingapirca is the site of the most intact Inca ruins in Ecuador. The stone walls of the fortress rise impressively from the valley floor. Entrance is five dollars. A museum is open on site, and for an additional six dollars guests can see the archeological and ethnographic displays, as well as a scale model of the ruins. Located about two hours from Cuenca in the province of Cañar, these ruins are a must for any tourist visiting the area. If more time is needed, the Posada Ingapirca (Ingapirca Inn) is within walking distance, offering comfortable rooms and traditional food in an antique hacienda house. Call: (593-7) 282-7401 for reservations.
Shabalula Ruins
The Cañaris civilization lived in the area from 500 to 1500 AD. They used this seven-hectare site as an administrative and military center. Adjacent is the Chobsi Cave, thought to be the first vestige of human civilization in Ecuador. The walls inside the cave are lined with moss and orchids.
Cajas National Park
About forty minutes northwest of Cuenca, this national park is the place to go for those who love the outdoors. At 9000 to 13000 feet above sea level, temperatures fluctuate between 0 and 8 degrees Centigrade. Entrance to the park costs $10. Once inside, one can go camping, fishing, or hiking along miles of natural trails and lagoons. Experience the unique flora and fauna of the region on a guided tour. Warm clothing is recommended.
San Juan de Gualaceo
Get a sense of what it was like to live in Ecuador a hundred years ago by visiting San Juan de Gualaceo. Peace and tranquility abound in this picturesque village, where the people are sincere, friendly, and always willing to share their stories with tourists. The town is also the starting point for several trails. Take a leisurely stroll along the crystalline Santa Barbara River, hike out to Gupancay and Tasqui canyons (where gurgling cascades await), climb Pishi Mountain or experience the protected cloud forest of Aguarongo.
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