Gualaceo, Chordelg and San Bartolome craft making villagues

Cuenca , Ecuador

Gualaceo, Chordelg and San Bartolome craft making villagues

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(18 reviews)

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Skilled artisans produce beautiful products here. Check out the exquisite textiles (hand-woven shawls and hand-embroidered clothing), jewelry made with unique techniques such as filigree, pottery, straw hats and much more...

Highlights:
• Browse the famous artisan-crafted guitars of San Bartolome
• Check out Chordeleg's famous jewelry and ceramics
• Learn about the Hispanic shawl-making technique called "Ikat" in Gualaceo
• Walk through the colorful market in Gualaceo where you will see locals weaving hats on the streets

Available options

Group Tour with lunch

Is a tour which includes different guests in one vehicle and the itinerary is set. 2-course lunch is included. Minimum of 2 guests and maximum 12.

Group Tour without lunch

You will be part of a group and you have the flexibility to bring your own lunch or pay for it at the restaurant.

Private Tour

This options is exclusively for you and your party. You will have the flexibility to make any changes in the itinerary within the time allowed.

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Lunch

Fuel surcharge

2 course lunch

Transportation

Licensed Tour Guide / Driver

Detailed itinerary

Departing from Cuenca our first stop will be at the small town of San Bartolome. Craftsmen here have been creating handmade guitars for generations. We’ll visit a local workshop to observe the process of making these instruments considered a crafts for its unique designs and inlaid decorations.

Chordeleg is famous for its silversmiths and jewelry shops that line the streets and main plaza. We will visit Favio Jara's workshop, his family founded this art in the town and now all the community makes a living out of it. We will have the chance to observe how he makes fabulous filigree items. Afterwards, you’ll have time to shop around and check out the local jewelry and crafts. Here you’ll also have a chance to watch artisans weaving 'Panama' hats and other items made of toquilla straw.

We will also visit Fernando Loja's workshop to see is miniature ceramics that show aspects of the local culture

Our tour continues to Gualaceo to admire the vivid, bright colors of its market and the interesting clothing worn by the local women. Here you will learn about (and taste!) delicious, just-picked fruits that are grown only in Ecuador. Meat lovers should not miss the tasty roasted pig, a very typical dish of this area, although leave some space for lunch.

Then our final stop will be at Jose Jimenez's workshop where we’ll see the process of weaving shawls and ponchos on antique looms, using dyes extracted from plants. At the end of this full-day tour outside of Cuenca, you will be returned to your hotel.

What's not included

Gratuities

Entrance fees: Ikat $1, Guitar workshop $2, Orchid farm $5

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

17 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

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

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

Infant meals not included

A minimum of 2 people per booking is required

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.

Meeting point

Plaza San Sebastián on the corner of Sucre and Talbot street

Important notes

• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Contact us to info@cuencabestours.com to arrange the exact pick up time please
• Infant seats are available on request if advised at time of booking
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
• Infant meals not included
• A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
• 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.

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.