Two summers ago, my family and I visited Cuenca, Ecuador’s third-most populated city. It’s known for its historic architecture, beautiful sights, and immersive culture. If you’re looking for an adventurous tropical destination as temperatures drop in the northeast, consider Cuenca!
My trip to Cuenca was unforgettable for many reasons. For aspiring Spanish speakers, it’s a great place to immerse yourself in the language. As you walk around landmarks like Calderon Park, prepare to be tempted by sweets like espumilla (a sweet, fruity meringue cream) or tasty churros. And right in front of Calderon Park stands the breathtaking Iglesia del Sagrario (Church of the Shrine). Â
In Cuenca’s central plaza, I saw mascots of people dressed as Cuy (guinea pig). This isn’t unusual, as Cuy symbolizes a popular dish throughout Ecuador, typically paired with potatoes and rice. However, Cuy is more than a food; it also represents celebration, status, and Ecuador’s rich history. But if tasting Cuy sounds too adventurous, don’t worry — there are a variety of lovely dishes to choose from.
Along with Cuenca’s fantastic culinary scene, the city boasts rich arts and culture. During my trip, I saw many artisans selling handcrafted toys, jewelry, and gifts. Venture further into the center of Cuenca, and you’ll find the beautiful Santa Ana Terrace, which has amazing views of the city. You’re able to see this wonderful sight on the last floor of the terrace, and it only costs $2.25 per person (perfect for budget travelers)! However, it is approximately 143 steps to the last floor, so be prepared to do some walking. If you need to take some breaks along the way, you can admire each uniquely decorated floor.
Cuenca is also known for its high altitude, meaning you can see stunning mountaintops everywhere you turn.
Another highlight of Cuenca is Mall Del RĂo (The Mall of the River), a major shopping center that includes an entertainment center, food court, and even a movie theater. Mall Del RĂo is only a 15-minute drive from the city with a wide selection of stores you may be familiar with, like Aeropostale, American Eagle, Adidas, ALDO, and many more to choose from.
If you’re planning an affordable vacation, or just want to experience something out of your comfort zone, Cuenca is just the place for you. Taxi prices start around $1.77 per mile and only $0.32 for a one-way ticket on local transport. I found that a meal can be just $3.50 at some restaurants. All in all, I found Cuenca to be a beautiful city that is accessible, exciting, and inexpensive for budget travelers!
So whether you’re looking for a new city to explore, gorgeous mountaintops, or even trying to immerse yourself in a new culture, consider booking Cuenca for your next trip.
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