7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Cuenca

Cuenca, is a haven for digital nomads seeking the charm of a colonial city blended with modern amenities. While the city itself offers a rich cultural experience, the surrounding areas provide a plethora of weekend getaways that cater to all tastes. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, there's something for everyone. Here are seven fun weekend getaways from Cuenca, including three off-the-beaten-path destinations that promise an unforgettable experience.

Baños de Agua Santa

Known for its thermal baths and adventure sports, Baños de Agua Santa is a popular destination for both relaxation and adrenaline. Nestled at the foot of the Tungurahua volcano, visitors can enjoy hot springs, waterfalls, and activities like zip-lining, rafting, and bungee jumping. The town also offers a vibrant nightlife and a variety of restaurants to satisfy any palate.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Baños is by bus, which takes about 4 to 5 hours from Cuenca. Buses depart regularly from Cuenca's main bus terminal.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to ride the famous "Swing at the End of the World" at La Casa del Árbol, where you can swing over a cliff with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Where to Stay: For a luxurious stay, consider the Luna Runtun Adventure Spa, which offers stunning views and thermal baths. Alternatively, Hostal Chimenea is a budget-friendly option with a cozy atmosphere.

Where to Eat: Casa Hood is a must-visit for its eclectic menu and laid-back vibe. Try their famous empanadas or the international dishes that cater to diverse tastes.

Ingapirca Ruins

The Ingapirca Ruins are the most significant Incan archaeological site in Ecuador. A visit here offers a glimpse into the country's rich pre-Columbian history. The site includes a museum, the Temple of the Sun, and various other structures. Guided tours are available to provide context to the impressive ruins and the surrounding landscapes.

How to Get There: Ingapirca is about a 2-hour drive from Cuenca. You can take a bus or arrange a private tour from Cuenca.

Travel Tip: Time your visit to coincide with the Cañari market in the nearby town of Cañar, which takes place every Sunday. It's a vibrant cultural experience not to be missed.

Where to Stay: Posada Ingapirca offers comfortable accommodations right next to the ruins, with the added benefit of exploring the site during quieter times.

Where to Eat: The on-site restaurant at Posada Ingapirca serves traditional Ecuadorian dishes, providing an authentic dining experience with a historical backdrop.

Podocarpus National Park

For nature lovers and hikers, Podocarpus National Park is a biodiverse paradise. Known as the "Botanical Garden of America," it's home to a vast array of flora and fauna, including several endemic species. The park offers various trails that range from easy walks to challenging treks, with the chance to spot exotic birds and enjoy panoramic views.

How to Get There: The park is accessible from Loja, which is about a 4-hour drive from Cuenca. From Loja, you can take a taxi or bus to the park entrance.

Travel Tip: Visit the park's higher altitudes for a chance to see the elusive spectacled bear and other rare wildlife.

Where to Stay: The Copalinga Ecolodge near the park's entrance offers rustic yet comfortable cabins and excellent opportunities for birdwatching.

Where to Eat: Enjoy a packed lunch from Loja's local markets or dine at the restaurant in Copalinga Ecolodge, which serves home-cooked meals using organic ingredients.

Girón Waterfall and El Chorro

The small town of Girón, just an hour away from Cuenca, is home to the stunning Girón Waterfall and El Chorro. This lesser-known destination offers a peaceful retreat from the city and a chance to explore the picturesque waterfall and surrounding trails. The area is also steeped in history, with legends of Inca gold hidden within the falls.

How to Get There: Girón is best reached by car or bus, with the journey taking approximately one hour from Cuenca.

Travel Tip: After visiting the waterfall, head to the nearby museum to learn about the area's history and the legend of the lost Inca gold.

Where to Stay: Hostería Izhcayluma offers a tranquil setting with beautiful gardens and comfortable accommodations.

Where to Eat: Try the local eateries in Girón for traditional Ecuadorian dishes, such as hornado or llapingachos.

Yunguilla Valley

Just a short drive from Cuenca, the Yunguilla Valley is a tranquil escape known for its warm climate and lush landscapes. It's an ideal spot for those looking to relax in a rural setting, with opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and visiting local farms. The valley is also becoming a hub for sustainable tourism and community-based projects.

How to Get There: The Yunguilla Valley is about an hour's drive from Cuenca. Renting a car or taking a taxi is the most convenient way to explore the area.

Travel Tip: Participate in a community tourism experience to learn about local agriculture and traditional ways of life.

Where to Stay: Stay at one of the community-run guesthouses or eco-lodges in the valley, such as the Kawsaymi Family Lodge, which offers a cultural immersion experience.

Where to Eat: Many lodges in the valley offer home-cooked meals using fresh, local ingredients. Don't miss the chance to try the valley's own coffee, grown and roasted right in Yunguilla.

Saraguro

Saraguro is a unique destination known for its strong indigenous culture and traditions. The town's inhabitants are known for their distinctive black clothing and finely crafted beadwork. Visitors can explore the local markets, participate in cultural workshops, and learn about the Saraguro people's way of life. The surrounding countryside also offers beautiful hikes and the chance to visit organic farms.

How to Get There: Saraguro is approximately 2.5 hours by bus from Cuenca. Buses leave regularly from the terminal terrestre.

Travel Tip: Plan your visit during a festival or cultural event to experience traditional music, dance, and ceremonies.

Where to Stay: The Achik Wasi Hostel provides a comfortable stay and the opportunity to engage with the local community.

Where to Eat: Sample traditional dishes at the community-run restaurant Ñawi, which serves up local cuisine with a contemporary twist.

El Cajas National Park

El Cajas National Park is a natural wonderland of over 200 glacial lakes and rugged terrain just a short drive from Cuenca. It's a paradise for hikers, birdwatchers, and nature enthusiasts. The park's high altitude and unique ecosystem make it a place of surreal beauty and tranquility. Whether you're trekking to the Toreadora Lake or spotting the endemic Tit-like Dacnis, El Cajas is a must-visit.

How to Get There: El Cajas is about a 30-minute drive from Cuenca. You can take a bus, hire a taxi, or drive yourself to the park.

Travel Tip: Weather in El Cajas can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and be prepared for sudden changes in temperature and precipitation.

Where to Stay: Hostería Dos Chorreras offers cozy accommodations with stunning views of the park's landscapes and a chance to enjoy trout fishing.

Where to Eat: The restaurant at Hostería Dos Chorreras is known for its fresh trout dishes, a local specialty, and hearty soups perfect for the park's cool climate.