Things to Do in Cuenca

Cuenca sits in Ecuador's southern highlands like a perfectly preserved colonial jewel, its cobblestone streets and red-tiled roofs spreading across the valley floor at 8,400 feet above sea level. The city's UNESCO World Heritage historic center feels authentically lived-in rather than museum-like - you'll find families gathering in the main plaza while artisans still practice traditional crafts that have been passed down for generations. What makes Cuenca particularly compelling is how it balances its colonial architecture with a thriving contemporary culture, attracting both Ecuadorian students and a growing expat community who've discovered that this might be one of South America's most livable cities.

Cuenca's dining scene reflects both its traditional Andean roots and its growing cosmopolitan character, with family-run comedores serving hearty portions of hornado and cuy alongside newer restaurants experimenting with contemporary Ecuadorian cuisine. The historic center holds most of the atmospheric dining options - look for places with interior courtyards where locals gather for long lunches. Street food culture thrives around the markets, where you can try empanadas de viento and fresh fruit juices for under $2. The growing expat community has brought international options, but the most memorable meals tend to be the traditional ones where recipes haven't changed in generations.

Cuenca's high-altitude location creates a spring-like climate year-round, with temperatures rarely straying far from the 60-70°F range, though the distinction between wet and dry seasons matters more than temperature. The dry season from June to September offers the most reliable weather for outdoor activities like hiking in Cajas National Park, with crisp mornings and generally clear afternoons. The wet season brings afternoon showers that can be dramatic but usually brief - this is actually when the surrounding countryside looks most lush and the markets overflow with fresh produce. December through February tends to be the wettest, but even then, mornings are often clear and the rain adds a certain romance to the colonial architecture.