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Guest User: Hotel location is good, new city, can not walk far across the river is the old city, the hotel is fully equipped, no air conditioning, a little hot sleep at night, I don't know if it is the reason for not opening the window. I think their service is very good, free drop-off service, no hot water reflects the immediate repair. Especially, breakfast is good.
Av. del Estadio Esq
From US$ 90
Guest User: The hotel is exquisite and elegant, the room is small, but it makes people feel comfortable. The location is in the center of the old city and it is convenient to go anywhere. It fits the city atmosphere of Cuenca!
Presidente Borrero 10-91
From US$ 43
Zhuo188: The overall environment of the hotel is quite good. But the room was very small and very forced, there was no air conditioning, it was cold, and I lived on the second floor 4 times in the morning and evening to try to take a bath, but there was hot water once. The room can be said to have no sound insulation, Wifi is not so easy to use, often stuck and disconnected. Although the decoration looks good, the facilities experience is not very good, just so-so, the overall experience is generally biased.
Simón Bolívar 12-55 Y
From US$ 112
Guest User: Facilities: Wi-Fi is broken for a day Service: Very good Health: Very good 👍 Environment: Very good
Av Ordóñez Lasso S/N
From US$ 113
Bühringer: Personal sehr freundlich und zuvorkommend. Frühstücksbuffet klein aber fein. Wir haben das Zimmer 301 erhalten, dies sah nicht aus wie auf den Fotos. War die Dachkammer. Tür Badezimmer schließt nicht nur so das diese in Schloss mit Anlauf gedrückt werden muss was sehr laut ist. Vorhänge waren dreckig, Tür hatte ein großen Spalt unten 10 cm und das Zimmer war somit nicht geschlossen wurde versucht mit einen spritzschutz zu verblenden der hing bereits weg. Es war dadurch laut und hell im Zimmer durch das Licht des Flures. Für uns keine 5 Sterne Bewertung, sondern ein schlechtes Zimmeg noch schnell platziert.
Calle: Presidente Borrero Exterior: 8-44
From US$ 94
Sergio Cao: The hotel is hidden in a colonial-style building. The retro chandeliers and wood carvings in the lobby are super atmospheric, and one second makes people fall in love with this plateau ancient city. The rooms are modern and warm, the floor-to-ceiling windows can see the volcanic outline in the distance, and it is particularly comfortable to sleep with a quiet street view at night. The staff was very efficient, the check-in and check-out were fast, and they also took the initiative to help make an appointment for a taxi to the nearby canyon. The freshly ground coffee and Ecuadorian chocolate for breakfast were too amazing, with local cheese bread, to start a full day. It takes 10 minutes to walk to the downtown square, it is convenient to visit the church and buy handicrafts. The price/performance ratio has nothing to say, next time I come to Cuenca, I will stay here!
Junto Al, Mall del Rio, Ave. CircunvalacióN Sur, Y
From US$ 95
Karina Murillo Cornejo: Excelente ubicación y muy comodo , con una vista expectacular de la ciudad y rico desayuno , los empleados muy serviciales y nos dieron buenas sugerencias.
Avenida Fray Vicente Solano 4-31 y Florencia Astudillo
From US$ 138
DrKFC: Staff was excellent, food was delicious and service for anything was great! Internet was terrible though, the only flaw for my work.
4X76+426, Av. Ordoñez Lasso E Higuerillas, Av Ordóñez Lasso
From US$ 44
YAN: This is the best and most comfortable hotel we have stayed in Ecuador for almost half a month. Service attitude and quality are also first class. The hotel decoration I will wait for pictures. Breakfast payment is made now, no extra bed, kids can be used. The location is in the city centre. Public parking
C. Gran Colombia 10-65 y
From US$ 26
Guest User: A sweet deal for $25/night in mid July 2026. Great customer service, good location, and some of the staff speak English. The rooms were mostly comfortable even for a tall person. Decent hot water and pressure in the showers (but slow and sometimes clogged drainage), televisions in the rooms that don't work as intended, reliable wifi albeit slow, nice views from the windows, free coffee water and tea, broken/malfunctioning lamps and lights in the rooms. The hotel sits on one end of a public square with just about everything you'd need on a daily basis within walking distance.
Coronel Guillermo Tálbot y Simón Bolívar 8-64
From US$ 35
Want to eat like a local? Don't miss out on these top Cuenca dishes and foodie spots.
Find the blue-domed cathedral in the Old Town, and pick up a Panama hat along the way After getting off the bus by the Tomebamba River, my feet landed on a cobblestone road with grass growing in the cracks. I had to watch my step. The river cuts a deep gorge along the edge of the city, with houses on both banks perched on the slopes, their windows facing the sound of the water. Cuenca is in southern Ecuador and is the capital of Azuay Province. The city sits in an Andean valley at an altitude of over 2,500 meters, with four rivers flowing through it, the first being the Tomebamba River. The Old Town is laid out in a grid pattern, with straight streets, block after block, white walls, red tiles, and dark wooden balconies, most of which are decorated with flowers. This entire area was listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1999. Its official name is long: Historic Centre of Santa Ana de los Ríos de Cuenca. People usually just call it the Cuenca Old Town, and some call this city the Athens of Ecuador. The houses in the Old Town don't have large facades; pushing open the door often reveals a courtyard surrounded by corridors, with carved wood, wrought-iron balconies protruding outward, and delicate railings wrapped in flowers. Walking along the street, the blue-domed cathedral is not hard to find. It is the cathedral of Cuenca, and its blue and white domes stand in the city; you can see those two domes from several streets away. Construction on the cathedral began in the second half of the 19th century, and it took a long time to complete after many stops and starts. The new and old cathedrals stand side by side. The old one next to it is the earlier cathedral, now converted into a religious museum, housing religious artifacts and old paintings. Don't dress too casually when entering the church. If a mass is in progress, just stand at the back and watch quietly. Hat shops are scattered along several streets, with straw hats hanging at the doors—white, beige, and with brims of varying widths. The name "Panama hat" is misleading; it is actually produced in Ecuador and woven from toquilla straw. Cuenca is one of the main production areas, and this weaving craft is listed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The straw is harvested, stripped of its veins, torn into thin strips, and then woven circle by circle. The finer the weave, the more eye-straining it is; a high-quality hat takes a lot of effort. When choosing a hat, don't just look at the style: hold it up to the light to see if the weave is even and if the brim is neatly finished. A hat that can be rolled up, tucked into a pocket, and then unfolded without losing its shape is usually well-made. There is a walking path along the Tomebamba River, with houses built against the cliff on one side and the water on the other. It's cooler to walk here than on the streets, and locals call this cliff line the "barranca." In the evening, people walk their dogs or jog on the path, with the sound of the water always in their ears. Exploring the Old Town is easy. There are benches and shade in the square, and people sit on the cathedral steps to soak up the sun. Courtyard doors are often open, revealing corridors and flower pots inside. Walking to the other side of the river, there is an old bridge that was left half-finished; construction stopped halfway, but it has now become a landmark, with willow branches on both banks hanging over the water. The city's flower market is also lively, with stalls set up early in the morning, bouquets tied full and lush. The nearby market sells fruits, vegetables, and local food. If you want to bring back souvenirs, Cuenca's craftsmanship goes beyond straw hats; ceramics and gold and silver jewelry are also well-made. The nearby town of Gualaceo is known for shoes and weaving, and Chordeleg has street after street of gold and silver shops. The Old Town is not large. You can explore it in half a day by walking slowly, and if you get tired, you can sit by the square. Flying from Quito or Guayaquil is more convenient, while a long-distance bus takes most of the day. Small shops along the street sell corn-based snacks, potato soup, and desserts, as well as a bowl of creamy potato soup served with corn and avocado—warm and filling. If it rains in the afternoon, stand under the eaves for a while, and it will stop soon. November marks the beginning of the rainy season here, and the weather changes in an instant. Bring an umbrella when you go out and choose water-resistant shoes. Rain mostly falls in the afternoon, so it's better to plan outdoor activities for the morning. The city is at an altitude of over 2,500 meters, so it's sunnier and cooler than the plains. Add a jacket in the morning and evening, don't walk too fast for the first day or two, and drink plenty of water. Before dark, I was still sitting by the square, with raindrops falling on the stone slabs, dried up by the passing crowds. On the way back to the hotel, I realized that although I had spent a long time picking out hats, I hadn't bought a single one, but I had become familiar with several alleys in the Old Town.
I remember stepping out onto the cobblestone streets of Cuenca and instantly feeling like I had stumbled into a well-kept secret that the rest of the world somehow forgot. While most travelers heading to South America flock straight to Machu Picchu or Quito, Cuenca remains a breathtaking Andean hidden gem that completely defies the usual tourist hustle. As I wandered through the historic center, I was struck by the impeccably preserved Spanish colonial architecture and the relaxed rhythm of daily life, completely free from the overwhelming crowds and commercialized chaos of larger capitals. What makes this destination so profoundly underrated is how effortlessly it blends deep cultural heritage with authentic everyday charm, letting you experience true local life without fighting through tour buses. I spent my afternoons exploring the vibrant artisan markets where master weavers craft the world-famous Panama hats, and sipping hot spiced tea on a sunny rooftop terrace overlooking the iconic blue domes of the New Cathedral. Every corner revealed stunning historic facades, bustling flower stalls, and friendly locals eager to share stories, creating an atmosphere that felt genuinely intimate and deeply soul-enriching. If you are looking to escape the predictable tourist trails and find a place where your travel budget stretches further while offering richer experiences, Cuenca is absolute perfection. I recommend taking your time to simply get lost in the historic alleys, visiting local artisan workshops, and soaking in the tranquil Andean mountain air at your own leisurely pace. By choosing this magnificent hidden city over crowded mega-destinations, you will discover the true heart and soul of Ecuador in the most peaceful, unforgettable way possible. #TravelTips #UnderratedDestinationsns #CuencaEcuador #SouthAmericaTravel #HiddenGems #SlowTravel #CulturalTravel #Wanderlust #underratedspots
In Loja's San Sebastian Square, there are two towers: one is the church's bell tower, and the other is a standalone clock tower, facing each other across the square. This image is my earliest impression of this mountain city in southern Ecuador. The city is compact, sitting at an altitude of just over 2,000 meters. It gets plenty of sun during the day and cools down in the evening, with little temperature variation throughout the year. Loja is located in the Andes mountains of southern Ecuador. It is the capital of Loja Province and a hub for education, music, and festivals in the region. Locals love to call it the "Music Capital" of Ecuador. The city is full of people learning, teaching, playing, and singing music, with theaters, concert halls, and music museums all playing a part. The melancholic tunes of the pasillo are sung with extra flavor in Loja. Walking through the old town square in the evening, you can often stumble upon rehearsals or open-air performances. Titles are given by others, but life is lived by oneself; in Loja, music is more like a daily routine, not something put on display in a shop window. The old town's houses, with their white walls and red tiles, spread out around several squares. The Central Square features the cathedral, which has a simple exterior. The two towers in San Sebastian Square chime together when the time comes, and passersby don't even look up, as they are used to it. The old town is quiet during the day; shops open late in the morning, and small restaurants only start to fill up in the afternoon. The market on the edge of the city opens before dawn, packed with fruits, vegetables, flowers, and snacks. If you want an authentic breakfast, just head into the market. The real highlights of the trip are in the surrounding areas. A two- or three-hour drive north takes you to Saraguro, one of Ecuador's well-known indigenous communities. The Saraguro people dress in black—men in black ponchos with white trousers, and women in black skirts with silver pins—making them easy to recognize on the street. The town market is filled with hand-woven scarves, ponchos, and felt hats in deep colors, all with solid craftsmanship. The indigenous people here call the land "Pachamama" (Mother Earth) and have their own rituals for everything. Asking before entering a home or taking photos is a sign of respect for their way of life. Make sure the handmade items you buy are made by locals, so your money is well spent. Not far outside Loja is Podocarpus National Park, where cloud forests and paramo meadows stretch out in rows. The orchids and hummingbirds in the mountains are what it's famous for. Some sections of the trails are easy to walk, while others require a guide. If you head north to Cuenca, you will pass through Cajas National Park on the way. The road cuts through a plateau at an altitude of over 3,000 meters, flanked by rolling meadows and a string of lakes—there are over 200 of them. This area is a protected highland wetland, and the weather changes quickly. It can be sunny in the morning and foggy or rainy by noon. Choose the easier sections of the trails, and don't venture deep into the park alone. The altitude is high, so you'll get winded after a few steps; slow down and rest when you're tired. Bring a jacket and rain gear, and wear shoes that can handle mud. It's windy at the mountain passes, so don't fall behind. Register at the entrance, follow the marked trails, and don't enter the mountains after dark. Loja's handicrafts are also well-established. Pottery, weaving, and silver jewelry are made in nearby villages and towns. The old town has small shops selling crafts, as well as markets, where prices are more reasonable than around the airport. If you want to bring something back, a hand-woven cloth bag or a felt hat is a great choice. The food leans towards mountain flavors. Roast suckling pig is served with potatoes and corn, and snacks like corn tortillas and fried dough rings can be found on the street. Soups are mostly potato- and corn-based and served hot. Fruit stalls have fresh produce sold by the portion, which is inexpensive. Local coffee has a distinct acidity, making it perfect for breakfast. You can stay in the old town or near the university. Nightly rates vary by low and high season, so book early for holidays. Taxis in the mountain city are inexpensive, and you can use the local ride-hailing apps. The airport is in nearby Catamayo, which is a bit of a drive from the city, so allow enough time for travel. The highland sun is unforgiving. Above 2,000 meters, the UV rays are strong, so don't skimp on sunscreen and hats. Keep your cash in two separate places, as small stalls mostly accept cash. Admission fees and opening hours vary by location. Ask at your accommodation before you head out, or check the signs at the entrance on the day; it's easier than looking through old travelogues. When I got back and organized my photos, I realized I had taken a bunch of pictures of the towers but hadn't recorded a single piece of music, which gives me a reason to go back.
A small South American nation brimming with wonder 🌎✨ From islands teeming with rare wildlife and towering volcanoes to colonial old towns and the lush Amazon rainforest. 🐢 Galápagos Islands Sitting in the heart of the Pacific, these islands are world-renowned for their unique nature and wildlife—home to giant tortoises, sea lions, and exotic seabirds. A true bucket-list destination for nature enthusiasts 🦭 🏛️ Quito Perched high in the Andes, the capital boasts a stunning old town, historic churches, and beautifully preserved colonial architecture. 🌋 Cotopaxi National Park A natural icon of Ecuador featuring a perfectly conical volcano, high-altitude plains, and breathtaking panoramic views of the Andes. 💙 Quilotoa Lagoon A mesmerizing turquoise lake nestled within a volcanic crater. Surrounded by rugged peaks, it’s a photographer’s paradise. 🌿 Amazon Rainforest Ecuador’s wild side is a tropical rainforest rich with winding rivers, diverse flora, and exotic wildlife. Best explored through guided jungle treks and river cruises. 🏘️ Cuenca A charming and tranquil city known for its cobblestone streets, colonial buildings, and riverside vibes. It’s also the birthplace of the famous Panama hat 🇪🇨 ✨ The magic of Ecuador lies in its incredible diversity—islands, volcanoes, the Amazon, and history all packed into one country. If you're looking for a destination that offers both stunning landscapes and deep culture, this is it.
I still remember the exact moment I fell in love with Cuenca, wandering down a cobblestone street as the afternoon light caught the brilliant blue domes of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. The city has a distinct, enchanting magic that wraps around you the second you arrive, blending colonial architecture, vibrant flower markets, and a crisp mountain breeze that makes every stroll feel special. What makes Cuenca an ideal repeat destination isn't just checking off famous sights; it is the comforting, slow pace of life that invites you to slow down, sip locally roasted coffee in hidden courtyards, and watch local life unfold along the grassy banks of the Tomebamba River. I find that going back to Cuenca always reveals a completely new layer of the city that you simply miss when rushing through on a first trip. On a return visit, you can skip the typical tourist checklist and dive straight into the local culture, like spending a peaceful morning exploring the artisan markets, visiting traditional Panama hat workshops, or taking day trips into the dramatic high-altitude wilderness of Cajas National Park. The city effortlessly balances rich Andean history with a fresh, modern culinary scene, meaning you can spend one evening enjoying traditional soups at a local market stall and the next dining at a cozy rooftop restaurant overlooking red-tiled roofs and distant mountain peaks. I keep choosing Cuenca because it offers that rare feeling of a home away from home where every corner feels safe, welcoming, and endlessly charming. It is a city that rewards curiosity and rewards those who return with warmer welcomes, deeper connections, and richer memories. If you are searching for a place in Ecuador where you can truly immerse yourself, recharge your creative spirit, and experience slow travel at its finest, Cuenca is waiting for you with open arms. #CuencaEcuador #RepeatDestination #VisitEcuador #SlowTravel #ExploreCuenca #SouthAmericaTravel #TravelStorytelling #Wanderlust #repeatdestination
Ecuador features incredibly interesting places to stay, ranging from luxury hotels in Quito and the historic city of Cuenca to nature resorts in the Galápagos Islands—a Quito and Galápagos combination is especially ideal for first-time visitors. 🏛️ 1. Quito – The Capital and Old Town ⭐ Casa Gangotena – A luxurious boutique hotel nestled in the heart of the Old Town. · Located right on Plaza San Francisco. · Housed in a historic building with a romantic ambiance. · Rating: Approximately 4.8/5. · Price found: Approximately US$463/night. · Perfect for those wanting to stay in the historic center and capture stunning photos. Casa Gangotena is one of the most frequently mentioned hotels for staying in Quito’s Historic Center and is ideal for exploring the city before heading to the Galápagos. ⭐ JW Marriott Quito – A premier international luxury hotel. · Spacious rooms with full amenities. · Best for travelers who prefer large-scale hotels and comprehensive service. · Rating: Approximately 4.7/5 from over 8,000 reviews. · Price found: Approximately US$216/night. JW Marriott Quito is among the nominees for Ecuador’s Leading Hotel 2026.
You don't need a huge budget to squeeze into Chile's popular routes. These lesser-known countries in South America, nestled between mountains and seas, have convenient flights and are budget-friendly. With a modest budget, you can dive into a fairy tale world full of colorful houses, and a week's travel might cost only half of what you'd spend in Chile.🥰 👇Cartagena A tropical old city by the sea, where the wind carries the sweet scent of bougainvillea and the aroma of mangoes. ✨Highlights Coral stone walls enclose the entire macaron-colored old city. Bright yellow, pastel blue, and cherry pink low-rise houses are packed together, with balconies overflowing with flowers. On the cobblestone streets, you can always find artists in colorful ruffled skirts dancing Cumbia. The nearby Getsemani neighborhood hides the most vibrant local life. Old walls are covered in contrasting graffiti, and brightly colored houses are strung with lights. In the evening, the entire street fills with the smell of barbecue, and locals will pull you in to dance salsa. A 40-minute speedboat ride takes you to the Rosario Islands, where colorful thatched-roof wooden cabins float on Tiffany-blue waters. While snorkeling, palm-sized tropical fish will swim right past your hands. San Felipe de Barajas Castle is an incredible spot to watch the sunset. The ochre-colored ancient fortress stands against an orange sea, and every shutter click captures a movie-like frame. 🗓️Itinerary Day 1: Stroll leisurely through the old city, walk halfway along the city walls, catch the sunset, then find a street vendor in the square for ceviche. Day 2: Explore San Felipe Castle in the morning, then wander through Getsemani's alleys in the afternoon to find a mobile ice cream cart. Join a local street party in the evening. Day 3: Book a day trip to the islands, snorkel and relax, then return to the city in the evening. 🍤Food recommendations The ceviche is incredibly fresh. Seafood stewed in coconut milk with fried plantain chips is perfectly refreshing. Corn tortillas filled with roasted pork are so fragrant you'll lick your fingers. A large cup of freshly squeezed mango juice from a street vendor costs just a few dollars. ⚠️Travel tips The sun is strong by the sea, so be sure to pack high-SPF sunscreen and mosquito repellent. The old city has cobblestone streets, which are very hard on the feet, so don't wear high heels. Exchange some small Colombian peso bills for snacks; most larger stores accept credit cards. Don't go outside the city walls at night, and use official apps for taxis. 👇Cuenca A spring city nestled in the Andes, with an average annual temperature of 15 degrees Celsius. Red tiles and white walls are paired with colorful doors and windows, making your steps unconsciously slow down. ✨Highlights The entire old city is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Low-rise houses with jacaranda climbing their walls line the cobblestone streets. The streets are full of handmade silver jewelry shops and Panama hat workshops, and the wind carries the scent of pine needles and cocoa. The cobalt blue domes of the New Cathedral can be seen from anywhere in the city. The light stone exterior walls are adorned with stained glass. Climbing to the top offers panoramic views of the entire red-roofed, colorful old city. Cajas National Park is a 40-minute drive away. The high-altitude wetlands are dotted with lakes like scattered diamonds. A gentle hiking trail might lead you to wandering wild llamas, and the cool, crisp air is wonderfully refreshing. 🗓️Itinerary Day 1: Start exploring from the main square, visit the old and new cathedrals, wander through alleys to find beautiful colorful doorways, and watch artisans weaving Panama hats. Day 2: Book a half-day tour to Cajas National Park, take the shortest hiking trail to see the high-altitude lakes, then return to the city in the afternoon for a local hot chocolate at a cafe. Day 3: Browse the local market for colorful woven scarves, stroll along the riverside promenade, and watch locals drying potatoes. 🍲Food recommendations Tripe soup is warm and appetizing. Corn tamales are fragrant with cheese. Roasted pork hock is tender and falls off the bone. Freshly squeezed raspberry juice is perfectly sweet and tart. ⚠️Travel tips At an altitude of about 2,500 meters, don't run or jump when you first arrive. Drink less alcohol and take it easy. The temperature difference between morning and evening is huge. Wear short sleeves at noon, but you'll need a thick jacket in the evening. Markets can be crowded, so keep an eye on your belongings. Do not buy products made from wild animals or plants. 👇Sucre Bolivia's pure white constitutional capital, with white houses paired with sky blue, goose yellow, and magenta doors and windows, like a fairy tale block set meticulously outlined. ✨Highlights Almost the entire old city consists of pure white buildings. Cobblestone streets wind and turn, every balcony is adorned with overflowing flowers, and around every corner, you might stumble upon a small courtyard full of bougainvillea. The colonial buildings around Plaza 25 de Mayo are as exquisite as a museum. The Casa de la Libertad still preserves murals and old furniture from the independence era, and the wooden floors creak underfoot. The viewpoint at the San Felipe Neri Monastery offers a panoramic view of the entire white city, with orange-red rooftops contrasting against white walls, and the faint silhouette of the Andes in the distance. Dinosaur Footprint Park is a half-hour drive away. Millions of years old dinosaur footprints are preserved on limestone walls. Walking on the trails feels like traveling back to prehistoric times, full of wonder. 🗓️Itinerary Day 1: Start from the main square to explore the old city, visit the cathedral and Casa de la Libertad, then climb to the monastery viewpoint in the evening for sunset. Day 2: Visit the fossil wall at Dinosaur Footprint Park in the morning, then return to the artisan market in the afternoon to find colorful woven trinkets. Day 3: Spend an afternoon at a rooftop cafe, basking in the sun and admiring the white walls and red tiles, with no need to rush your itinerary. 🥘Food recommendations Salty corn porridge is thick and warming to the stomach. Roasted lamb ribs with quinoa rice are fragrant and not greasy. Fried beef empanadas are crispy to the last crumb. The hot chocolate sold on the street is so rich it coats the cup. ⚠️Travel tips At an altitude of about 2,800 meters, prepare altitude sickness medication in advance and avoid strenuous exercise. The sun is very strong during the day, so don't forget your sun hat and sunglasses. Exchange plenty of Bolivian boliviano cash, as many small shops don't accept cards. Don't trust strangers on the street offering to be guides; find official tour operators for day trips. 👇Colonia del Sacramento A tranquil border town by the Río de la Plata, where Portuguese and Spanish colonial houses are packed together, with flowers climbing colorful walls, like a fairy tale corner forgotten by time. ✨Highlights The old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The cobblestone streets are polished smooth by footsteps. Cream, goose yellow, and brick-red stone houses are paired with dark wooden windows, and jacaranda climbs the courtyard walls. The river breeze carries moisture. The old ruins of the San Francisco Convent are covered in green vines, with small wild flowers growing in the cracks of the crumbling walls. Standing inside, you can hear the birds by the river. The old lighthouse on the riverbank has been shining for hundreds of years. Climbing it offers panoramic views of the entire colorful old town and the Río de la Plata, which is as wide as a sea. At sunset, the entire sky turns pink and purple. Colorful vintage cars are parked along the streets, matching the colorful houses, looking like they drove straight out of a fairy tale book. 🗓️Itinerary Day 1: Wander through the old town, walk along the cobblestone streets to see old churches and museums. When you're tired, find a riverside bench to sit and watch cargo ships slowly drift by on the river. Day 2: Wake up early to climb the lighthouse for sunrise, explore the vine-covered convent ruins in the morning, then wade in the shallow waters by the river in the afternoon, waiting for the pink and purple sunset. 🍖Food recommendations Charcoal-grilled steak is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, especially delicious with chimichurri. Fried cheese sticks are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. Freshly squeezed grapefruit juice is refreshing. Dulce de leche spread on bread is sweet but not cloying. ⚠️Travel tips The town's pace is very slow; shops close for a two to three-hour siesta at noon, so don't make a wasted trip. It's windy by the river, so bring a light jacket even in summer. The old town is tiny, so there's no need for a taxi; you can walk to all the sights.
From towering volcanoes and misty cloud forests to cascading waterfalls and charming colonial streets, Ecuador delivers endless magic packed into just one week. The Ultimate 7-Day Itinerary Days 1–2: Quito (Colonial Heart of the Andes) Wander UNESCO-listed streets, take the TelefériQo cable car up Pichincha Volcano, and explore historic landmarks like Plaza Grande and Basílica del Voto Nacional. Day 3: Cotopaxi National Park Experience dramatic volcanic landscapes, spot wild horses, and hike around Limpiopungo Lagoon near one of the world's highest active volcanoes. Days 4–5: Baños (Ecuador's Adventure Capital) Chase waterfalls along the Ruta de las Cascadas, ride the famous Swing at the End of the World at Casa del Árbol, zip-line across canyons, and unwind in the natural thermal baths at Termas de la Virgen. Days 6–7: Cuenca (Ecuador's Most Beautiful Colonial City) Stroll past blue-domed cathedrals, walk along the Tomebamba River, explore vibrant flower markets, and soak in the relaxed Andean atmosphere. Must-Try Local Eats Along the Way: Warm up with Locro de Papa (creamy potato soup) and Canelazo (a warm cinnamon sugarcane drink), or fuel your journey with Hornado (slow-roasted pork) and crispy Llapingachos (cheese-filled potato patties). Save this post for your future trip to Ecuador! Which stop would you head to first? 🏔️💦🍲 #EcuadorTravel #VisitEcuador #SouthAmericaTravel #EcuadorItinerary #QuitoEcuador #Cotopaxi #BañosEcuador #CuencaEcuador #TravelEcuador #DiscoverEcuador #BucketListTravel #AdventureTravel #TravelGuide #ColonialCities #ChasingWaterfalls
#easytravelpost El Cajas is 32 km west of Cuenca, 230+ glacial lakes, free entry with passport registration at La Toreadora control (km 32 on vía a Molleturo). Bus from Cuenca Terminal Terrestre booth 40, any Guayaquil-bound Occidental bus, tell driver "La Toreadora" (~$2, 1 hr). 2026 note: the Llaviucu sector is closed for post-fire restoration — stick to Toreadora side. I took the 07:00 booth-40 bus ($2), registered at 08:05, walked the Ilincocha path (300 m) into the Polylepis grove first. The moss lives on the Polylepis (paper-bark) trunks at 3,900 m: peeling cinnamon bark with Bryum in the fissures 1 cm thick, 4°C in June, a giant hummingbird, the Toreadora lake steel-grey. Then the 4.2 km Nature Trail through multi-lagoon páramo — the moss on the lakeside cushion plants (Distichia) silver with spray, ate a 3,000 COP Cuenca empanada de morocho bought at the terminal, watched a llama herd graze the polylepis edge. Mistake: I came straight from Cuenca (2,560 m) to a 4,265 m Cerro San Luis push — altitude headache at the saddle; do Toreadora loop first, San Luis only if acclimatized. Another: the $2 bus is cash-only at booth 40, no card, and it fills by 07:00. Would you bus $2 + free register for the Cajas mossy polylepis-forest + Toreadora loop, or hire a $40 Cuenca taxi for the dawn fog-inversion shot instead?
Ecuador has Quito and the Galápagos. But in the southern Andes lies a city that feels like a Spanish colonial dream with an Inca heartbeat. Cuenca is a UNESCO-listed treasure of blue-domed churches, cobblestone streets, and flower-filled plazas. The Tomebamba River rushes through the center, and the surrounding mountains are green and dramatic. Here is how to explore Ecuador's most beautiful city and save money with Trip.com. 1. The Old Town at Dawn: Blue Domes and Silent Streets Cuenca's historic center is a masterpiece of colonial architecture. The skyline is dominated by the blue domes of the New Cathedral, which glow against the Andean sky. By 9 AM, the streets fill with locals and visitors. Come at 6 AM instead. The light is soft. The cobblestones are damp from the night. You will walk through streets that have barely changed in four centuries, past whitewashed houses with iron balconies and wooden doors. Pro Tip: Download the Trip.com offline map for Cuenca. It shows you the hidden courtyards and the quietest routes to the viewpoints. The best photos are from the riverbanks below the old town, where the blue domes reflect in the water. 2. The Panama Hat Museum: A Local Legacy Despite the name, the Panama hat was born in Ecuador. Cuenca is the world capital of hat weaving, and the Panama Hat Museum tells the story. The building is a beautifully restored colonial house. The exhibits explain how the hats are made, from straw to finished product. The shop sells authentic hats at fair prices. It is a must for anyone who wants to understand Ecuadorian craftsmanship. Money Hack: The museum is free to enter. The guided tour is included. Book a "Panama Hat Experience" on Trip.com that includes a visit to a local workshop. You will see weavers at work and can buy directly from them. It costs little and supports local artisans. 3. El Cajas National Park: A Landscape of Glass Just thirty minutes from Cuenca lies El Cajas National Park, a surreal landscape of hundreds of lakes surrounded by páramo — a high-altitude grassland. The trails wind between the lakes, and the air is thin and crisp. The scenery is otherworldly. The silence is deep. It is a place for hiking, for reflection, for feeling small in the face of nature. Budget Advice: Skip the expensive private tours. Take a local bus from Cuenca to the park entrance for a few dollars. The trails are well-marked. Bring warm clothes and rain gear — the weather changes quickly. Check Trip.com for a "Cajas Day Trip" that includes transport and a guide if you prefer company. The guide knows the best lakes for photos. 4. Food That Tastes Like the Andes Ecuadorian food is hearty and satisfying. Try Cuy Asado — roasted guinea pig, a local delicacy. Order Locro de Papa — a creamy potato soup with cheese and avocado. And do not miss Mote Pata — a stew of hominy, pork, and squash. Wash it all down with Canelazo — a warm drink made with cinnamon, sugar, and local aguardiente. Where to Eat: Skip the restaurants near the cathedral. Walk to Tiestos or El Mercado 9 de Octubre, where locals eat. The food is fresh, and the prices are fair. Check Trip.com for set menu deals — some places include a glass of local fruit juice when you book through the app. Where to Stay? Book on Trip.com a guesthouse in the old town. Look for something near Calle Larga or the Tomebamba River. You will sleep in a colonial house with a courtyard, wooden floors, and a view of the river. The evenings are cool, and the mornings are filled with the sound of church bells. Conclusion: Cuenca is not a city that shouts. It whispers. It is a place of blue domes and quiet streets, of rivers and mountains. It is a city that has preserved its past without becoming a museum. The markets are alive. The churches are open. The people are warm. Ecuador is a country of incredible diversity, but Cuenca is its most beautiful city. Come and listen to the river. The Andes are waiting. #trip_com #Ecuador #Cuenca #cuencatravel #EcuadorHiddenGems #Andes #PanamaHat #BudgetTravel #AmericasGuide #travelecuador #unesco #ColonialCity #ElCajas #EcuadorianCulture #BlueDomes
This is a very famous place! Many tourists come here!
财会人The alpine landscape is very cold and beautiful. There is a restaurant where you can eat while watching deer, the scenery and the sky. It takes 20 minutes to walk to a small village.
A730It is the capital of the northern territory of the Inca Empire. The city construction is cleverly integrated with the natural environment. It was listed as a World Cultural and Natural Heritage by UNESCO in 1979. It is a very beautiful place!
Lavender and Sun
