Cuenca
Cuenca is Ecuador’s second most important colonial city. Built in the 16th century, its historic center is a Unesco Heritage site.
The city has many beautiful buildings, squares and churches, with the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception as an absolute highlight!
Also, did you know the Panama hat was originally first made in Cuenca?
The city is located 8 hours from Quito, 6,5 hours from Banos, 5 hours from Riobamba and 4 hours from Guayaquil. It is a pleasant stop if you travel through Ecuador by bus.
I have to say, I only visited the city because it is the gateway to a nearby National Park, called Cajas National Park.
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What to do?
Cajas National Park
Cajas National Park is located about 30 kilometers North/West from the city. You can get there very easily from the city by bus (2 USD) in about an hour, by taxi it will take you about 30 minutes.
The park contains more than 270 lakes and small lagoons at an altitude of 4450 meters.
Make sure to bring some food, drinks and cash. There is a small visitors center with a restaurant, bar and restrooms, but it’s not much and overpriced.
There are different hikes you can do in the park, going from very easy to very difficult, short or long. There is even the possibility to camp in the park!
You can easily visit the park for just one day or even half a day!
