Private Devil's Nose Hike and Ingapirca Ruins Tour

Cuenca , Ecuador

Private Devil's Nose Hike and Ingapirca Ruins Tour

Active

(20 reviews)

9h - 11h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Embark on this private Devil's Nose Mountain hike and Ingapirca Ruins with a bilingual guide. You will get to explore one of the finest and most daring feats of engineering the world has ever seen. The Devil’s Nose Train connected the Andes Mountains to the coast back in the day. You will have the chance to hike in the area and also do a biking activity. Then we will visit the Ingapirca Ruins, considered one of the most important remains from the Incas in Ecuador. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included. You can choose from the tour options for an all-inclusive or a basic tour. A minimum of 2 adults per booking is required.

Available options

All Inclusive

This option includes all fees and lunch<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Lunch (if option selected)

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Private tour

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Lunch

Driver/guide

Transport by private vehicle or van

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Experience two of the most interesting destinations in the country. You will be picked up from your hotel and be transported to the Devil's Nose mountain area. Here we will visit the local community project and hike on a trail from where we will have the best view of the mountain with the tracks where the train used to do the zig-zag. In its day, it was considered one of the greatest feats of engineering that the world had seen. This railway was built in 1899 with the idea of linking the coastal city of Guayaquil with the highlands capital of Quito. We have an optional biking activity on dirt roads with almost no traffic that descends to the Sibambe train station.

Your trip continues on the Pan-American Highway to Ingapirca, which is the major Inca archeological site in Ecuador. You will have the chance to appreciate one of the most important Inca structures, an elliptical platform known as the Sun’s Temple. Courtyards, terraces and various other ruins are found here as well. After a full day of touring, you will be dropped off at your hotel.

Some highlights of this tour includes:
• Take a ride on one of the greatest railroad engineering feats, the famous Devil’s Nose Train.
• See amazing panoramic views of unforgettable Andean landscapes full of contrasts
• Visit the Ingapirca Ruins, Ecuador’s largest Pre-Columbian archeological site

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

15 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and lactose-free options are available, please advise at time of booking if required

A minimum of 2 adults per booking is required

Infant meals not included

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

For 1 to 5 passengers, a bilingual guide will also be the driver. For more than 5 passengers, a driver and a bilingual guide will be provided.

Important notes

• A current valid passport (Or copy) is required in order to board the train
• A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
• Infant seats are available on request if advised at time of booking
• Infant meals not included
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Vegetarian/Vegan/Gluten Free/Lactose Free options are available, please advise at time of booking if required
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Train tickets are not included due to different rates for locals, foreigners, adults and seniors (Except All inclusive option). However, we can book them for you and you can pay in cash at the pick up. Please contact us to info@cuencabestours.com
• For 1 to 5 passengers, a bilingual guide will also be the driver. For more than 5 passengers, a driver and a bilingual guide will be provided.
• Please contact us within 2 days notice to reconfirm the tour.

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.

About Cuenca

Cuenca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a charming colonial city nestled in the Andes mountains. Known for its well-preserved historic center, vibrant cultural scene, and proximity to natural wonders, Cuenca offers a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure. The city's Spanish colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and friendly atmosphere make it a must-visit destination in Ecuador.

Top Attractions

Historic Center of Cuenca

The Historic Center of Cuenca is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring well-preserved colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and numerous churches and plazas. It's the heart of the city and a must-visit for its cultural and historical significance.

Historical/Architecture Half day to full day Free to explore, individual attractions may have entry fees

Pumapungo Museum and Archaeological Park

This museum and archaeological park showcase the history of Cuenca and the Cañari culture. It features pre-Incan ruins, a reconstructed house, and a variety of artifacts.

Historical/Museum 1-2 hours Moderate

El Cajas National Park

El Cajas National Park is a stunning natural reserve featuring high-altitude lakes, lagoons, and diverse wildlife. It's a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.

Nature/Adventure Full day Free entry, guided tours may have fees

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cuy Asado

Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish, typically served with potatoes and peas.

Main Course Not vegetarian or vegan, contains meat

Locro de Papa

A hearty potato soup made with cheese, avocado, and sometimes meat, often served for breakfast.

Soup Can be vegetarian, but often contains cheese and sometimes meat

Encebollado

A flavorful fish soup with yuca, pickled onions, and cilantro, often enjoyed as a hangover cure.

Soup Contains fish, not vegetarian or vegan

Popular Activities

Hiking in El Cajas National Park Mountain biking in the surrounding countryside Visiting local spas and hot springs Enjoying a coffee at a local café Exploring the historic center and its museums Attending local festivals and events Fishing in the nearby lakes and rivers Experiencing a traditional Andean ceremony or ritual

Best Time to Visit

June to September

The dry season offers pleasant weather with sunny days and cool nights. It's the best time for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions.

12°C to 22°C 54°F to 72°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Cuenca is generally a safe city, but like any destination, it's important to take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas and on public transportation. Be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables secure.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.
• Use reputable tour operators and taxis, and agree on the fare before starting your journey.
• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit or isolated areas.

Getting there

By air

Mariscal Lamar International Airport • 6 km from city center

By bus

Terminal Terrestre de Cuenca

Getting around

Public transport

Cuenca has an efficient and affordable bus system that covers the entire city. Buses are the primary mode of public transportation.

Taxis

Available • Apps: InDriver, Taxi App

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Center San Sebastián El Vado

Day trips

Ingapirca

50 km from Cuenca • Full day

Ingapirca is a significant Inca archaeological site featuring well-preserved ruins and a museum showcasing the history of the Inca civilization.

Cajas National Park

33 km from Cuenca • Full day

Cajas National Park offers stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife. It's a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Girón

25 km from Cuenca • Half day

Girón is a charming colonial town known for its well-preserved architecture, museums, and local crafts. It's a great place to experience the local culture and history.

Festivals

Fiesta de Cuenca • November 3-13 Carnaval de Cuenca • February/March (dates vary)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interactions with locals and gain a deeper understanding of the culture.
Visit the historic center early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the beauty of the city at a leisurely pace.
Take advantage of the city's vibrant arts and dining scene by exploring local galleries, museums, and restaurants.
Pack layers and comfortable shoes, as temperatures can vary significantly and the city's cobblestone streets can be challenging to navigate.
Stay informed about local customs and laws, and respect them to avoid offending locals or drawing unwanted attention.