Find your way around the province
- Cuenca
- Gualaceo
- Chordeleg
What to discover
Explore the UNESCO-listed historic centre over several walks. Pumapungo adds an archaeological perspective, bringing together Cañari, Inca and colonial histories. Give Cajas a separate day instead of treating it as a quick photo stop.
Heritage and traditions
Toquilla straw hats offer a way to understand materials, weaving and finishing. Ask workshop staff who carries out each stage. Drinks such as rosero and yaguana, featured on the museum panels, also introduce local food traditions.
A suggested stay
Allow two days for Cuenca: one for the centre and river, another for a museum and workshop. Add a Cajas excursion if conditions allow. This leaves room for markets, cafés and conversations.
Plan this stop
Choose a Cajas walk to suit the weather and terrain. Check access and suitable guidance before setting out. Cuenca’s official information is the place to confirm cultural visits and current opening hours.
Places, celebrations and crafts
Cuenca celebrates in November
Independence festivities around 3 November bring concerts, exhibitions, performances and craft events to Cuenca. Leave time between visits to the historic centre to enjoy the cultural programme for your travel year.
Corpus Christi and Septenario sweets
On a movable date in May or June, Corpus Christi combines religious celebrations with a confectionery tradition. Around Parque Calderón, Septenario sweets reveal another side of Cuenca’s heritage. On 24 December, the Pase del Niño Viajero brings devotion, costumes and music together in a major procession.
Gualaceo and Chordeleg: meet the makers
Continue to the textile workshops of Bulcay in Gualaceo canton, where ikat weaving is associated with macana shawls. In Chordeleg, jewellery and precious metal work reveal other Azuay crafts. Ask workshops whether visitors can watch a stage of production.
Chorro de Girón, a waterfall excursion
South of Cuenca, Chorro de Girón brings a nature stop to an Azuay itinerary. The waterfall and its surroundings offer a change of pace after exploring the city. Plan this as a separate excursion from Cajas and ask which trails are accessible during your stay.
Molleturo and the remains of Paredones
At Molleturo, the landscape opens onto Paredones, an archaeological site associated with Cañari and Inca heritage. Its remains and Andean path introduce the history of connections between territories. Plan a visit with a local guide to understand the site and choose a suitable route.
From Cuenca: discover Ingapirca in Cañar province
Festival and seasonal calendar →
Practical information
When to go
June to September is generally drier in the Andes. Nights remain cool and mountain weather can change quickly. Outside this period, keep mountain outings flexible.
What to book or arrange
Arrange transport and guiding for Cajas before departure. Book Gualaceo or Chordeleg craft workshops for a dedicated visit.
Local food to try
Mote pillo combines cooked maize with eggs and is a Cuenca staple. At the markets, look for rosero, a fruit-and-grain drink with varying recipes.