Street food Tour in Cuenca,Ecuador
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover Cuenca’s cuisine and history on a small-group walking tour. In addition to sating your appetite and cultural curiosities, this tour is a great way to orient yourself to the city’s layout. Culinary highlights include Sanduche de pernil, tamales, empanadas, and traditional beverages like morocho and coconut juice. Along the way, visit the ruins of Todos Los Santos, the Broken Bridge, and numerous other landmarks.
- Enjoy a small group size of maximum 15 people
- Relax in complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off
- Taste a variety of traditional Ecuadorian dishes
-Visit locations that most tourists miss
Available options
Group tour
Group Tour: Nice option to share the local snacks and sometimes meet new friends.
Private tour
Private Tour: Good option only for you, in this tour you can decide about some details such us pick up time and the snacks that you prefer.
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Professional guide
Snacks 2
Local Drink 1
Detailed itinerary
1
We walk around the central square, observing the main historical buildings of the city such as: New and Old Cathedral, La Gobernacion, mayoralty, etc.
2
In this place you have the possibility to enjoy a delicious Cuenca snack called Sanduche de pernil, accompanied by its chili sauce with tree tomato and a refreshing coconut juice drink.
3
Then we will walk through the cobbled streets of Cuenca, visiting some of the traditional neighborhoods such as the Barrio de Todos Santos or also called the neighborhood of the bakers, then we will connect with the Barranco del Rio Tomebamba before reaching the next food stall.
4
In front of the Broken Bridge, an iconic place in the city, we will find a small food stall with many years of service where you can taste the best empandas and drink the famous "morocho" prepared with corn.
5
After walking along the bank of the river observing, part of the ravine of the city and the archaeological remains of Pumapungo, we will arrive at one of the most famous streets of the city of Cuenca where many colonial-style houses are preserved, which function as small restaurants with typical food, especially tortillas, tamles, empanadas, etc.
Remember that with these snacks your dinner will be more than complete
6
In the final part of our tour, we will return close to the starting point of the tour to close the night with a delicious cocktail in one of the best restaurants in the city of Cuenca.
What's not included
Food and drinks (available for purchase)
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
4 reviews
5★
4
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
26 reviews
5★
25
4★
1
3★
0
2★
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1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
May be operated by a multilingual guide
Minimum of 1 adults required
.
Meeting point
Our guide will wait for you in front of the main door of the church, wearing a cap with the Polylepis Tours logo
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
