A compact, three-day journey from Quito to Cuenca that combines El Cajas’ highland lakes, Cuenca’s colonial charms, artisan towns and the pre-Columbian Ingapirca ruins. Ideal for travelers who want nature and culture on a tight schedule.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the night coach into a clear, thin-air morning and Cuenca’s red-tiled roofs spread below, church bells still warm from dawn. The three-day circuit moves fast: a night transfer from Quito, a highland morning in El Cajas with its glacial lagoons, an afternoon touring Cuenca’s historic center and El Turi viewpoint, a day among artisan towns and thermal pools, and a final stop at the stone remains of Ingapirca before returning to Quito.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 days (approximately 72 hours)
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers comfortable with long vehicle transfers and light walking at high altitude; basic stamina for short uphill sections recommended.
Wildlife
History
Cuenca was founded in 1557 on older indigenous settlements and retains a strong colonial grid and ecclesiastical architecture; Ingapirca preserves the meeting of Cañari and Inca building traditions.
Conservation
El Cajas is a protected national park—stay on marked trails to avoid bog damage and pack out waste; support local crafts and responsible tourism to sustain community-based economies.
Reserve your spot on the Cuenca Tour from Quito today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize before strenuous activity
Spend several hours in Cuenca on arrival and avoid heavy exertion the first day to limit altitude effects.
Bring cash for markets
Many artisan stalls in Chordeleg and Gualaceo accept only cash—small notes in local currency are handy.
Layer for sharp temperature swings
Highland days can be sunny and warm while mornings and nights are cold; bring a warm midlayer and a windproof shell.
Footwear for mixed terrain
Sturdy walking shoes with decent tread help on uneven ruins and the peat tracks of El Cajas.
Layered clothing
A base layer, insulating midlayer and windproof shell let you adapt to sun and cold in the highlands.
Sturdy walking shoes
Support and grip are useful for cobbled streets, archaeological steps and boggy trails in El Cajas.
Refillable water bottle
Hydration helps combat altitude fatigue; refill where bottled water is available.
Sunscreen & sunglasses
High-altitude UV is strong—protect skin and eyes during daytime excursions.