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Why Cuenca should be on your Ecuador itinerary
Nestled high in the Andes, Cuenca charms travelers with red-tiled roofs, ornate cathedrals, riverside promenades, and a lively arts scene. Whether you’re drawn by the UNESCO-listed historic center, artisan markets, or nearby mountain adventures, Cuenca offers a familiar, walkable colonial core with plenty of modern comforts — making it an ideal first stop for visitors to Ecuador.
Plan for altitude and the weather
Cuenca sits at roughly 2,500 meters (about 8,200 feet). Most visitors feel only mild effects — shortness of breath when climbing stairs or slight headaches — but it’s wise to take it easy on arrival. Drink plenty of water, avoid heavy meals the first day, and give yourself time to acclimatize before booking strenuous hikes.
The climate is often described as “eternal spring.” Expect cool mornings and evenings, with afternoons that can warm pleasantly in the sun. Pack layers: a light sweater, a waterproof shell for sudden showers, and a sun hat. Even on sunny days bring sunscreen — UV intensity is higher at altitude.
Getting there and getting around
Arrival: Mariscal Lamar Airport
Most flights arrive at Mariscal Lamar International Airport (CUE), a short drive from the historic center. Taxis from the airport to central Cuenca are affordable; agree on a fare with the driver or request a meter when available. If you arrive by bus, the main intercity terminal connects Cuenca to Quito, Guayaquil, Loja, and beyond with frequent, comfortable services.
Move around like a local
Cuenca’s compact historic center is best explored on foot — narrow streets, plazas, and pedestrian bridges make walking rewarding. For longer trips, the tram system (Tranvía) provides a modern, comfortable option connecting neighborhoods and key stops. Local buses are cheap but often require exact change in coins; keep small bills and coins handy.
Taxis are plentiful and inexpensive, but most don’t use apps. To avoid confusion, ask your hotel to call a reputable taxi or confirm the fare before you get in. Ride-sharing services may be available intermittently; availability varies by area and time.
Where to stay: neighborhoods for every traveler
For first-time visitors, the Historic Center (Centro Histórico) near Parque Calderón places you within walking distance of Cuenca’s main attractions, restaurants, and nightlife. If you prefer quieter streets and a riverside stroll, look for accommodation along the Tomebamba River or toward the newer neighborhoods south of the center. Short-term rentals and small boutique hotels are plentiful; choose places with heating or extra blankets if you’re visiting in cooler months.
Money, costs, and tipping
Ecuador uses the US dollar, which makes budgeting straightforward for many travelers. ATMs are common in the city center and accept international cards, though fees can be high — try to withdraw larger amounts to avoid repeated fees. Small markets and street vendors prefer cash, so keep some small bills and coins for bus fares and tips.
Tipping customs are flexible. Many restaurants add a small service charge to the bill; when they don’t, a 5–10% tip is appreciated for good service. Taxi drivers don’t expect tips but rounding up to the nearest dollar is common practice.
Language and cultural etiquette
Spanish is the dominant language. While you’ll find English speakers in tourist establishments, learning a few phrases will enrich interactions and open doors to conversations with locals. Simple greetings like “buenos días,” “por favor,” and “gracias” are appreciated. Use polite forms (usted) with older people and in formal settings unless invited to switch to tú.
Cuy (roasted guinea pig) is a traditional dish in the highlands and a culinary experience if you’re adventurous. Always ask before photographing people in markets or workshops — many vendors are happy to pose if you ask politely and offer a small tip.
What to eat and where to try it
Cuenca’s food scene blends hearty Andean staples and contemporary cuisine. Breakfast might include fresh fruit, corn arepas, and bolones (mashed plantain balls), while lunch is often the day’s main meal with soups, meats, rice, and potatoes.
Must-try local items include llapingachos (cheesy potato patties), hornado (slow-roasted pork), and encebollado (a popular fish soup for breakfast or lunch). For sweets, sample helado de paila — a traditional fruit ice cream made in large copper pans and often sold at plazas and markets.
For coffee lovers, Cuenca has excellent specialty cafes. For a memorable meal, seek out a rooftop restaurant near Parque Calderón at sunset to watch the cathedral domes glow as the city lights come on.
Markets, shopping, and artisan crafts
Cuenca is an excellent place to shop for crafts. Look for handmade jewelry, silverwork, woven textiles, and lacquered wooden items. Panama-style hats sold here are often high-quality Ecuadorian straw hats (traditionally made in coastal regions like Montecristi), and vendors frequently offer demonstrations on their construction.
Markets like the central food market open early and are lively — ideal for trying local snacks and seeing everyday life. Artisan markets cluster around plazas and house workshops where you can watch artisans at work. Bargaining is acceptable at market stalls, but be respectful and smile — most vendors set fair prices for quality work.
Health, safety, and practical tips
Health and water
Many travelers use bottled water when they first arrive, though some long-term residents suggest Cuenca’s tap water is treated and safe. If you prefer certainty, stick to bottled water for drinking and for brushing teeth during your first 48 hours. Carry a small first-aid kit and any prescription medications. If you plan to hike in areas like El Cajas, bring insect repellent and sun protection.
Safety
Cuenca is generally considered one of Ecuador’s safest cities for travelers. Petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas, so keep valuables secure and avoid carrying everything in a single bag. At night, stick to well-lit, populated streets. Use registered taxis or ask hotel staff to arrange rides if you feel uncertain about hailing one on the street.
Connectivity, power, and communications
Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and many public spaces. If you need reliable mobile data, consider buying a local SIM card from Claro or Movistar at the airport or a city storefront. eSIM plans are also available from international providers and can be a convenient option for short stays.
Electricity in Cuenca uses the same 110–120V standard and plug types as North America (Type A/B), so U.S. travelers usually don’t need adapters. Guests from other regions should bring appropriate plug adapters and a lightweight converter if needed.
Day trips and must-see sites
El Cajas National Park
Rugged highland lakes, rolling páramo ecosystem, and birdwatching make El Cajas a top day trip. Trails vary from short walks to multi-hour hikes. Even for a gentle visit, layer clothing and bring water and a windproof jacket.
Ingapirca and artisan towns
Ingapirca offers the most visible Inca ruins in southern Ecuador and can be combined with visits to artisan towns such as Gualaceo and Chordeleg, known for weaving and jewelry. These towns are great for purchasing handcrafted items directly from makers.
Turi viewpoint and river walks
For a quick panorama of Cuenca’s skyline, take a short trip to the Turi viewpoint. Back in town, stroll along the Tomebamba River, cross the charming stone bridges, and pause at riverside cafes to soak in the atmosphere.
A simple 3-day sample itinerary for first-timers
Day 1: Acclimate and wander the Historic Center. Visit Parque Calderón, the twin-domed cathedral, and a nearby museum. Spend the evening sampling local dishes at a rooftop restaurant.
Day 2: Take a morning tram ride across the city, then head out to El Cajas for an afternoon of lakes and short hikes. Return for coffee and an evening stroll along the river.
Day 3: Explore artisan markets and workshops in the morning, visit the Museo Pumapungo or a local cultural center, and in the afternoon take a short excursion to Turi viewpoint or a nearby hot springs if you prefer relaxation.
Packing checklist for Cuenca
- Layered clothing: light shirts, a warm sweater, and a waterproof jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestones and trails
- Sunscreen, lip balm, and a sun hat for high-altitude UV
- Reusable water bottle and small first-aid kit
- Copies of passport and travel documents; a small amount of US dollars in small bills
- Plug adapter if you’re not from a 110–120V country and a portable charger
- Basic Spanish phrase list or offline translation app
Final tips to travel smarter in Cuenca
Take your time. Part of Cuenca’s appeal is its relaxed pace — resist packing too much into one day. Ask locals for recommendations: shop owners, hotel staff, and cafe baristas are often happy to point you to hidden corners and current events. Try public transit for short trips to feel part of daily life, but keep a taxi number for late evenings.
Finally, respect local customs and the city’s historic fabric: avoid littering, be considerate when photographing private spaces, and treat artisans’ work as the valuable cultural heritage it is. With a little preparation and curiosity, your first visit to Cuenca can feel both effortless and richly rewarding.
Buen viaje — enjoy discovering one of Ecuador’s most welcoming cities!
Adam Elliot Altholtz serves as the Administrator & Patient Coordinator of the “Smilehealth Ecuador Dental Clinic“, along with his fellow Expats’ beloved ‘Dr. No Pain‘, right here in Cuenca, Ecuador, and for purposes of discussing all your Dental needs and questions, is available virtually 24/7 on all 365 days of the year, including holidays. Adam proudly responds to ALL Expat patients from at least 7:00am to 9:00pm Ecuador time, again every single day of the year (and once more even on holidays), when you write to him by email at info@smilehealthecuador.com and also by inquiry submitted on the Dental Clinic’s fully detailed website of www.smilehealthecuador.com for you to visit any time, by day or night. Plus, you can reach Adam directly by WhatsApp at +593 98 392 9606 -or by his US phone number of 1‐(941)‐227‐0114, and the Dental Clinic’s Ecuador phone number for local Expats residing in Cuenca is 07‐410‐8745. ALWAYS, you will receive your full Dental Service in English (NEVER in Spanish), per you as an Expat either living in or desiring to visit Cuenca by your Dental Vacation, plus also to enjoy all of Ecuador’s wonders that are just waiting for you to come arouse and delight your senses.