Travel Style: Classic
Trip Length: 4 days
Season: Year round
Private Tours: Available on any date upon request
Activities: Sightseeing, Culture, Nature, Gastronomy
Minimum Age: 5 years old
Begins/Ends: Cuenca, Ecuador / Cuenca, Ecuador
Nearest Airports: Mariscal Lamar, Cuenca, Ecuador (CUE)
The 4-day Cuenca & South Towns tour of Ecuador is perfect for families hoping to explore one of South America's best-preserved colonial cities. You will quickly understand why this is the number one destination for US expats as you experience and tour this delightful and charming old city. You will learn about the culture, history, and artisans who characterize this region of Ecuador, and you will also have the chance to learn about how the famous toquilla straw hats (known ironically as Panama hats) are created right here. Visit the ancient Inca ruins of Ingapirca and hop aboard the luxurious Tren Crucero tour train to see some of the best vistas the Andes have to offer.
The narrow streets and colonial churches of Cuenca welcome you. A guided tour of the city takes you through the highlights of the old town and brings you to the panoramic lookout at the Mirador de Turi.
Depending on the arrival time of your flight the city tour will be in the morning or in the afternoon.
Accommodation: Hotel in Cuenca
Meals included: Breakfast
Your second day begins at the Alausi Train Station, embarking on the historic Devil's Nose Train. Along the way, you will see a heritage presentation put on by the local people in honor of their history and culture.
Later on, you visit the Ingapirca Ruins, which is the largest vestige of the Incas in Ecuador.
Accommodation: Hotel in Cuenca
Meals included: Breakfast
In Cuenca's neighboring small towns of Gualeceo and Chordeleg, you will visit the workshops of talented artisans who craft jewelry, guitars, and the toquilla straw hats (known strangely as Panama Hats). It's a great time to pick up some souvenirs too!
In the afternoon you will go back to Cuenca to enjoy its delicious cuisine.
Accommodation: Hotel in Cuenca
Meals included: Breakfast
Before leaving Cuenca, you will have some free time to explore the city on your own and get any last-minute pictures or gifts. Your trip concludes with a transfer to the airport.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Discounts available for larger groups
