Cuenca Half-Day City Tour Including Panama Hat Factory

Cuenca , Ecuador

Cuenca Half-Day City Tour Including Panama Hat Factory

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(84 reviews)

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Head through Cuenca historic district with a local expert that will show you the highlights including churches, beautiful historical buildings with wrought-iron balconies, and carved wooden doors, amidst a flower market, art galleries, etc.

Available options

Shared Half Day Tour

Duration: 4 hours<br/>Pickup included

Private Half Day Tour

Duration: 4 hours<br/>Private Tour: This option allows you to customize the tour and its only for you and your party<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Transportation

Professional tour guide

Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Detailed itinerary

Our tour begins in San Sebastian neighborhood, here we find the Modern Art Museum where the famous Bienal International de Cuenca takes a place, it belongs to a select group of macro art events established in Latin America and the Caribbean. We will be able to explore not only the exhibits but also the historical house with its typical architecture.

Afterwards we will visit the "10 de Agosto market", this is the perfect spot to learn about the local products and culture. We will also visit the San Francisco market, the flower market, Abdon Calderon Park, the cathedral “El Sagrario”, known as the “Old Cathedral”, and lastly, we will tour the “New Cathedral” which is considered one of the biggest churches in Latin America. The famous gold leaf altar is found here.

Then we will visit the Panama hat factory-musuem. Here observe the fabrication of the very famous Panama Hats from a fiber called “paja toquilla”. These hats range from simple inexpensive ones to colorful, elegantly designed and costly ones. Afterwards, we will drive through the “Barranco” which is an area of terraced houses located next to the Tomebamba River.

Finally, we will go to “Mirador de Turi” (scenic viewpoint) to enjoy the beautiful vista of the Cuenca landscape.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

20 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

64 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please contact us to info@cuencabestours.com within 2 days notice to reconfirm the tour.

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.

Infant seats are available on request if advised at time of booking.

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults.

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Important notes

• Please contact us to info@cuencabestours.com within 2 days notice to reconfirm the tour.
• Our phone numbers are: USA (+1) 860-960-5290 ; Ecuador (+593) 987-796-896. WhatsApp Available on both numbers.
• 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.
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking.
• Infant seats are available on request if advised at time of booking.
• Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults.
• Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.

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.