Best Things to do in Cuenca | Must-see attractions 2025

El Cajas National Park

Open all day

National Park

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El Cajas National Park in Cuenca, Ecuador, features over 275 Andean lakes, numerous waterfalls, and is ideal for trout fishing, hiking, and camping.

Duration: More than 4 hours.

Free. No entry fees are required for visiting.

Mirador de Turi

Open all day

Church

D. Gonzalez del Barco

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Mirador de Turi is a white church in Cuenca, Ecuador, offering panoramic views of the city, especially captivating at sunset and during the Christmas season.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No admission fee required.

Museo Municipal de Arte Moderno

Tu-Fr 09:00-16:45; Sa-Su 10:00-14:00

Museum

cnr Mariscal Sucre & Talbot

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Museo Municipal de Arte Moderno, located in Cuenca, Ecuador, features a prominent collection of Ecuadorian and Latin American art in a historical former asylum.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Ecopark Silvan

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Park

Km 31 Via Cuenca Nabon

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Ecopark Silvan in Cuenca, Ecuador, offers over 60 hectares of flora and fauna, featuring diverse ecosystems and recreational areas for visitors to explore and enjoy.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some guided tours and workshops may incur a fee.

Museo Remigio Crespo Toral

10:00 AM–5:30 PM

Museum

Calle Larga 7- 07 y Borrero

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Museo Remigio Crespo Toral in Cuenca, Ecuador, features an extensive collection focused on local history, culture, and heritage, highlighting the region's rich artistic traditions.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Some workshops may require a fee.

Pumapungo Museum and Arqueological Park

Mo-Sa 08:00-17:00

Museum

Calle Larga y Huayna Capac Esquina

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Pumapungo Museum and Archeological Park in Cuenca, Ecuador features diverse exhibitions in art, ethnography, and archaeology, alongside Inca ruins and native botanical gardens.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

El Museo de Esqueletologia

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Bolivar 657 y Borrero

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El Museo de Esqueletologia in Cuenca, Ecuador highlights a unique collection of animal skeletons, showcasing biodiversity and educational exhibits about anatomy and conservation.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may have a fee.

El Paraiso Park

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Park

Cuenca

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El Paraiso Park in Cuenca, Ecuador, features serene lakes, lush gardens, and recreational spaces, perfect for nature lovers and families seeking relaxation.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Special events may have a fee.

Puente Roto

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Bridge

Av de Todos Santos & Machuca

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Puente Roto in Cuenca, Ecuador features stone arches, a unique venue for weekend art fairs and cultural events, following historical floods.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may have charges.

Miguel Illescas Art Gallery

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

Calle Larga 1-209 Miguel Angel Estrella

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Miguel Illescas Art Gallery in Cuenca showcases 2D and 3D works by Ecuadorian artist Miguel Illescas, featuring national and international artists and silver jewelry designs.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free.

Prohibido Centro Cultural

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

Calle Peatonal La Condamine 12-102 Sector: El Vado

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Prohibido Centro Cultural in Cuenca, Ecuador, focuses on Extreme Art across music, theater, painting, and more, promoting artistic expression since 1996.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Museo Del Sombrero De Paja Toquilla

Mo-Fr 09:00-18:00; Sa 09:30-17:00; Su 09:30-13:30

Museum

Calle Larga 10-41 Padre Aguirre

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Museo Del Sombrero De Paja Toquilla in Cuenca, Ecuador is a dedicated hat shop showcasing traditional toquilla straw hats, reflecting Ecuador's rich cultural heritage.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for special exhibitions.

Escalinata Francisco Sojos Jaramillo

Open 24 hours

Mall

Hermano Miguel (Calle Larga)

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Escalinata Francisco Sojos Jaramillo is a historic stairway in Cuenca, Ecuador, renowned for its architectural design and cultural significance.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Special events or guided tours may have specific fees.

Casa de las Posadas

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Art Center

Gran Colombia 17 42

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Casa de las Posadas is a historic 18th-century house in Cuenca, Ecuador, featuring colonial architecture and serving as a cultural center with art exhibitions and workshops.

Duration: About 1.5 hours.

Free. Special workshops may incur fees.

Plazoleta El Rollo

Open 24 hours

Park

Heroes de Verdeloma

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Plazoleta El Rollo in Cuenca, Ecuador, is a vibrant gathering space renowned for its beautiful flora, historic architecture, and cultural events attracting both locals and tourists.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Iglesia de Todos Santos

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Calle Larga 448

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Iglesia de Todos Santos in Cuenca, Ecuador, features intricate baroque architecture and a rich history dating back to its founding in 1557.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Donations may be accepted for ongoing maintenance.

Iglesia de Las Conceptas

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Antonio Borrero (Presidente Córdova Y Juan Jaramillo)

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Iglesia de Las Conceptas is a historical church in Cuenca, Ecuador, known for its Baroque architectural style and cultural significance in the region.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may have associated costs.

Iglesia de la Virgen de Bronce

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Avenida Diez de Agosto

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Iglesia de la Virgen de Bronce, located in Cuenca, Ecuador, is a 20th-century church notable for its architecture and cultural significance.

Duration: Around 1 hour.

Free. Donations encouraged for maintenance and events.

Iglesia Santo Cenaculo

8:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

Calle Tarqui Calle Simon Bolivar

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Iglesia Santo Cenaculo is a Catholic church in Cuenca, Ecuador, known for its historical significance and unique baroque architecture.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

San Pedro de Sayausi

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Av Ordonez Lasso

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San Pedro de Sayausi is a charming neighborhood in Cuenca, Ecuador, known for its vibrant markets, colonial architecture, and rich cultural traditions.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Free. Some special events or workshops may require a fee.

Virgen del Milagro

6:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

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Virgen del Milagro is a significant religious site in Cuenca, Ecuador, known for its miraculous statue and annual festivals attracting thousands of pilgrims.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations accepted for shrine maintenance.

Parque de la Madre

6:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

Avenida 12 de Abril Azogues

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Parque de la Madre in Cuenca, Ecuador, is an urban park offering green spaces, walking paths, ponds, and cultural events. It is ideal for relaxation and leisure activities.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may have a separate fee.

Iglesia de El Vergel

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Ave Doce Abril

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Iglesia de El Vergel in Cuenca, Ecuador, is a historic church known for its unique architecture and significant cultural value to the local community.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may have a fee.

Capilla Catolica del Colegio Corazon de Maria

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Ave Viracochabamba

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Capilla Catolica del Colegio Corazon de Maria in Cuenca, Ecuador features exquisite architecture and a rich historical backdrop, making it a significant cultural stop in the city.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Special events may require a donation.

Iglesia San Jose del Vecino

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Rafael Maria Arizaga Manuel Vega

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Iglesia San Jose del Vecino in Cuenca, Ecuador, is a historic church, founded in 1865, known for its striking architecture and cultural significance.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required.

"UNE" Park

6:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

Presidente Cordova

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UNE Park in Cuenca, Ecuador offers expansive green spaces, walking paths, and a serene environment for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. No admission charge for general access.

Casa de la Provincia

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

Tomas Ordonez

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Casa de la Provincia in Cuenca, Ecuador, is a cultural heritage site established in 1965, showcasing the region's history and architecture through exhibitions and events.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Fiscalia Distrital del Azuay

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Architectural Building

Presidente Borrero

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Fiscalia Distrital del Azuay in Cuenca, Ecuador, oversees legal matters, provides public service information, and handles criminal cases efficiently.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free access for the general public.

Iglesia Catolica Maria Auxiliadora

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Vega Munoz Padre Aguirre

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Iglesia Catolica Maria Auxiliadora in Cuenca, Ecuador is a notable church founded in 1953, known for its beautiful architecture and vibrant community.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Special events may require tickets.

San Blas Park

6:00 AM–9:00 PM

Park

Calle Simon Bolivar Corner of Manuel Vega

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San Blas Park in Cuenca, Ecuador, is a vibrant city park featuring lush greenery, walking paths, and recreational areas. Ideal for relaxation and social gatherings.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No admission fee required for entry.

Museum of the Aboriginal Cultures

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Calle Larga 5-24 y Mariano Cueva

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Museum of the Aboriginal Cultures showcases 5000+ archaeological pieces from over 20 pre-Columbian cultures in Cuenca, Ecuador. Explore artifacts dating back 15,000 years.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Amaru

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Zoo

Troncal de la Sierra

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Amaru is an open-air zoo in Cuenca, Ecuador, offering a diverse collection of exotic species set against a rustic, mountainous backdrop.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

General admission: $5. Discounts available for children and seniors.

Museum of the Arts of Fire

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Calle Las Herrerias

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Museum of the Arts of Fire in Cuenca, Ecuador, displays an extensive collection of fire-related artifacts, showcasing the cultural significance of fire in the region.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Special events may incur a fee.

Pumapungo

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

Huayna-Capac

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Pumapungo is an archaeological museum in Cuenca, Ecuador, featuring artifacts from pre-Columbian cultures and an extensive botanical garden.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

San Blas Church

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Iglesia San Blas

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San Blas Church in Cuenca, Ecuador, is one of the largest churches in the city and uniquely built in the form of a Latin cross, located at Parque San Blas.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required.

Estancia Rosario

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Event hall

Ave Veinticuatro de Mayo

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Estancia Rosario in Cuenca, Ecuador features lush gardens, rich architecture, and cultural experiences. A site for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some events may have an entry fee.

Zoo Yurak Allpa

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Zoo

Unnamed Rd

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Zoo Yurak Allpa in Cuenca, Ecuador, features native flora and fauna, focusing on conservation and education about Ecuadorian wildlife.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Adults: $5, Children (3-12): $2, Discounts available for groups.

Colegio La Inmaculada

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Calle Gran Colombia

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Colegio La Inmaculada in Cuenca, Ecuador, is a notable educational institution founded in 1944, known for its historic architecture and cultural contributions.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Access to special events may incur a fee.

Las Conceptas

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Hermano Miguel 7-12 y juan jaramillo

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Las Conceptas is a museum in Cuenca, Ecuador, showcasing religious art and history, highlighting local culture with extensive collections and exhibits.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions and educational workshops may require a fee.

Monay Shopping Center

10:00 AM–9:00 PM

Business Center

Cuenca

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Monay Shopping Center in Cuenca, Ecuador, features a variety of shops, entertainment options, and dining experiences across modern architecture in a vibrant atmosphere.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Free. Some events may have associated costs.

Universidad Politecnica Salesiana

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

Santa Ana de los cuatro ríos d

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Universidad Politecnica Salesiana in Cuenca, Ecuador, offers diverse educational programs with a focus on technology and social responsibility.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some seminars and workshops may have associated costs.

Iglesia Catolica San Pablo de Totoracocha

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Cuenca

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Iglesia Catolica San Pablo de Totoracocha, located in Cuenca, Ecuador, features colonial architecture and serves as a cultural hub for local events and religious activities.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations may be accepted for special events.

Iglesia Cristiana Verbo

7:00 PM–8:30 PM

Church

Loja y 10 de Agosto esquina

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Iglesia Cristiana Verbo in Cuenca, Ecuador, is a vibrant church known for its community activities and modern architecture, hosting diverse spiritual services.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free to enter. Donations are welcomed for community programs.

Iglesia Asamblea de Dios Ecuatoriana

Su-Fr 09:00-18:00; Sa 09:00-13:00

Church

Rio Cutucu (Rumi-urco)

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Iglesia Asamblea de Dios Ecuatoriana, located in Cuenca, Ecuador, is a prominent Christian congregation known for its architectural structure and community involvement.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed for community programs.

Centro Cristiano de Cuenca

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

Ecuador

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Centro Cristiano de Cuenca in Ecuador offers a spiritual community hub for worship and events, featuring modern architecture and engaging community programs.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free for regular services and events, with some special events potentially requiring a ticket.

Iglesia Catolica Virgen del Milagro

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

av ordonez laso (calle sin retorno)

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Iglesia Catolica Virgen del Milagro in Cuenca, Ecuador, features baroque architecture and rich history, dedicated to the Virgin of Miracle, attracting visitors year-round.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations for maintenance are appreciated.

C.C. Racar Plaza

PH,Mo-Su 10:00-20:00

Mall

Abelardo Andrade

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C.C. Racar Plaza in Cuenca, Ecuador, offers various retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options, making it a popular shopping destination for locals and visitors.

Duration: 2 to 4 hours.

Free. Some events and special screenings may require a ticket purchase.

Mercado 27 de Febrero

6:00 AM–3:00 PM

Mall

Cuenca

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Mercado 27 de Febrero is a bustling market in Cuenca, Ecuador, known for its fresh produce, local artisans, and vibrant food stalls. A true culinary hub in the city.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free entry. Some special activities may have costs associated.

Parque lineal Yanuncay

Open 24 hours

Park

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Parque Lineal Yanuncay is a 22.5 km park in Cuenca, Ecuador, featuring scenic trails, diverse flora, and recreational spaces for locals and tourists alike.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free entry. Some events may require tickets.