Things to Do in Cuenca With Kids

There are more things to do in Cuenca with kids than a week can hold, and almost none of it needs booking ahead. The historic center is walkable, the big ticket outings are cheap, and half of what our girls remember cost nothing at all. Here is everything we did, in the order we would do it again.

Things to Do in Cuenca With Kids: What to See

There are so many great things to do in Cuenca.  Whether you have kids, are a solo traveler or in your golden years, there is no shortage of options.  Read on to see what we chose to do during our stay, and what we loved.  We are considering doing a year abroad here in the future because it is such an incredible city, with so much to do, especially for a family!

Viona and Kaida jumping in front of the big Cuenca sign.

Explore the historic city center

Designated an UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, Cuenca is rich in culture and history.  Wandering the historic center on foot will allow you to see the incredible architecture and mingle with the very friendly locals.  Take a picture with the Cuenca sign (pictured above)!  It can be found at the Plaza de San Francisco behind the cathedral and over one block.Looking down on Parque Calderon in Cuenca, Ecuador.Parque Calderón, the central park can be found directly in front of the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception.  Is a great place to grab a seat on a bench and watch the hustle and bustle of the locals.  There was often classical music being played over speakers throughout the park when we strolled past.Street view of Parque Calderon.The old city is adorned with beautiful buildings and churches everywhere, like eye candy for the architect.  The historic center is pretty much flat and very walkable.An old European style building in Cuenca, Ecuador.A church in Cuenca, Ecuador.My favorite thing to see when exploring a new city is the art displayed on random walls like graffiti.  Seeing the displays of local artistic imagination gives me the greatest sense of appreciation for the local culture.  Cuenca was full of these artistic surprises, and did not disappoint.Street art of a circus performer climbing a light post with balloons and an umbrella to reach a cat perched on top.

Since we stayed in an AirBnb in the heart of the historic center, we were fortunate enough to walk these beautiful areas everyday.  To read about our AirBnb experience, check out our Where to Stay in Cuenca page.

Visit the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception

Viona jumping in the courtyard next to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.

The most notable building in Cuenca is the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception.  The collaborative design consists predominantly of Roman architecture with three domes covered in blue and white tile from Czechoslovakia and stained glass windows designed by an artist from Spain.  It’s striking presence can be viewed from nearly all sides, and even from the rooftop.

The back of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.

Take a journey up a lot of stairs to the top of the Cathedral for sweeping views of the city and an up close and personal experience with the domes.  The cost is barely notable, but it is not free to make the climb.  The entrance to the stairwell can be found on the exterior right side of the cathedral when looking at the front head on.

Viona and Dad climbing the stairs in the Cathedral.

The stairs to the top were not too difficult.  I get winded easily and was able to make it up with just a few breaks.  The stairwell is a bit narrow, although we have seen much worse in Europe.  But if you are prone to be claustrophobic, maybe you should skip this.  The payoff is worth the effort and tight quarters when you get to the top.

Kaida and Viona posing in front of one of the domes on the roof of the cathedral.A brick tower and a statue of the virgin Mary.

Back down the spiral stairwell, we head inside the cathedral next!

Kaida going down the spiral stairwell.

There are several large doors around the exterior of the Cathedral, all intricately designed and stunning.  Even the pink stonework on the walkway in front of the cathedral is worth admiring.

Kaida and Viona in front of the giant ornate door of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.

The interior hall of the Cathedral is massive.  I could barely make out the priest at the front giving a service from where I stood at the back of the hall.  Thus the multiple screen displays on the pillars for the patrons in the back.  Although the interior isn’t as exquisite as some cathedrals in Europe, I still think its worth a pop in.  There was no charge to enter.

The main hall with pews of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.

4X3V+2VJ, Cuenca, Ecuador
+593 98 333 5238

Visit a Museum of the Panamanian Hat (But really it’s Ecuadorian)

Kaida trying on a panama style hat.
There are two museums dedicated to the famous Panamanian hat because the hat is, in fact, originally from Cuenca.  Made famous during the construction of the Panama Canal by workers wearing them for protection from the sun and by Teddy Roosevelt who put on one of these hats while visiting the Panama canal.  These two events led the world to call these hats “the Panama hat”.  If you want to learn a bit more about the true history and process involved in making these hats then a visit to one of these museums is worth your while.  Plus there are an array of hats available to purchase at each place!
The first Museum is in the historic center and easily accessible making it the more popular of the two.  (Side note: I felt the second museum is more comprehensive and has a larger production facility to tour.)
The entrance to the Museo Del Sombrero De Paja Toquilla.Museo Del Sombrero is mostly like an elaborate shopping experience.  Just beyond the entrance is a hallway is information, a few exhibits to show photos of the process to make that hats as well as some small machinery now used in the process.
An exhibit of how panama style hats were made before modern techniques.
Beyond the hallway is the large room dedicated to hat sales.  The machinery along the walls to the left is where they can make the hats or modify the one you like to fit, etc.
The hat showroom at the Museo Del Sombrero de Paja Toquilla.
There were also a few additional rooms of hats for sale organized by quality and therefore, price.  Most hats will fall between $20-60 USD.  But you could spend more on a very high end hat if you really wanted.  I have read of some selling for upwards of $1000 USD that can take up to 6 months to craft.
A showroom of high quality, more expensive hats.www.museodelsombrero.com.ec
Calle Larga 10-41 y, Cuenca, Ecuador
The second Museum is Homero Ortega.  Located close to the airport, it is about a 10 minute taxi ride from the city center.  The ride cost around $1.50 USD.
Hat making equipment at the Homero Ortega museum.
The day of our visit the museum was closed for a private event so the operational part of the facility was closed.  They were kind enough to offer to let us wander around, since we made the journey there.
Hat making equipment in the Homero Ortega factory.
There is a very large production facility on site and I can imagine how fun it would be to watch them making the hats on a day there was not a special event.  Maybe next time!
Racks and racks of unfinished panama style hats.Kaida and Viona learning about how these hats are made.
We did our best to show the girls the steps in the process.  We read quite a bit about the materials used and the families who have passed down this skill for generations.  There was a wall of celebrities wearing the Panamanian hat, or possibly hats specifically from Homero Ortega?  It wasn’t quite clear.
Several photos of famous people wearing panama style hats.
Sewing room where hats get their finishing touches and alterations.
At the end we hit the shop.  The girls had a blast trying on and modeling the hats for us.  Viona and myself each bought a hat.  While I was shopping and wearing  the hat in the market later that day, a local lady working at a weaving shop that also sold hats stopped me to ask to see the hat and how much I paid for it.  I told her $40 USD and she replied “that is a very nice one and a good deal”.  I felt like a savvy shopper after that!
Viona and Kaida trying on some hats.www.homeroortega.com
4254+JR3, Av. Gil Ramírez Dávalos, Cuenca, Ecuador

Visit the Flower Market

Courtyard with a local flower market in Cuenca, Ecuador.
The flower market is located in La Plaza de las Flores, on the block left of the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception, towards the back side of the cathedral.  It is small but seemingly famous by the way many other travel bloggers have written about it.  The arrangements are stunning and vibrant.  It is worth a walk through, even if you are not into flowers, as it is conveniently located.
Several vendors selling bouquets and various flower arrangements.
We decided to purchase a bouquet to surprise little sister Kaida with, since she was at the apartment feeling a bit under the weather.  The bouquet put us back a whole $3 USD.
Viona holding a bouquet of flowers.
If you see this little doorway with a line while you are in the flower market, it is a popular local tradition.  Nuns make a “rose water” of sorts to help cleanse you.  Locals swear by it to stay healthy or cure them while they are ill (or so I have read).  Supposedly there are many ingredients in it, some rumors even include a little drug that helps you relax.  Many people claim to feel very relaxed after drinking it.  We did not partake in this tradition, but if you are feeling adventurous, I heard a cup of the stuff is only $.50 cents!
Locals partaking in a traditional drink made by nuns for supposed health benefits.

Go for a Scenic Horseback Ride!

A grass covered field while riding on a horse on a dirt road.
Truth be told, horseback riding was never on our radar until we had Kaida, who is obsessed with horses.  So we try to expand our horizons and partake in the things the kids want to do. Bellavista Equestrian Center is about a 20 minute taxi ride from the city center, depending on traffic.  The ride should only cost around $8 USD.  The scenery is so beautiful outside of the city and is worth the small effort to get there.
Horseback riding atop a mountain trail near Cuenca, Ecuador.
The owner of the equestrian center is very nice and speaks great English.  You do need an appointment, so don’t just show up unannounced.  The best way to get in contact is through Whats App, or you could email, but I got a much quicker response using Whats App (I will include the website and contact info at the end).  I also didn’t make an appointment until we were in Cuenca so I don’t think it needs to be done far in advance.
Kaida riding a horse on a forest trail.
We chose the two hour ride instead of the one hour.  This was probably an error in judgement for our butts, but the views were completely worth it.  The reviews made it seem like such an easy journey, and as someone who never rides horses I wasn’t too worried going in.  However, you do start in a valley and go to the top of a mountain.  Most of the terrain is level and the ascent is subtle, but there are some steep parts and vegetation that you will have to bob and weave around.  The kids seemed unfazed by the challenging parts.
Viona leading the way on horseback.
The panoramic views at the top of the mountain are priceless.  It gives you a great appreciation for the beautiful land that surrounds Cuenca.  As much as my butt hurt for the next 24 hours, I was really glad we did it and recommend it to anyone of moderate physical ability to do during a visit to Cuenca.
Panoramic view of the Ecuadorian countryside outside of Cuenca.www.centroecuestrebellavista.com
Whats App: +593 99 415 0643

Mirador de Turi

Viona with an expansive view of Cuenca, Ecuador behind her.

Head up to Mirador De Turi for fantastic city views!  If you are looking for some exercise, you can hike to the top of this hill.  If you are like me, then a taxi sounds much more suitable, especially given how inexpensive taxi rides are in Cuenca.Viona in front of the Church of Turi.

The Church of Turi is at the top of the hill (pictured above) and you can see it nestled upon its perch from many places in the city.  There are a few restaurants and cafes just below the landing where we were taking photographs that appear to have equivalent views if you are looking to grab a scenic bite to eat.  I will say we had to wait a while to get a taxi back down the hill.  We went in the mid afternoon on a weekday and it was pretty quiet.  I am sure it is much easier at a busier time of day (sunset maybe?) or the weekends.

Viona and Mom with a panoramic view of Cuenca behind them.3XHQ+3X5, Avenida Mirador de Turi, Cuenca, Ecuador

Parque Extremo Turi

A tall tree house at the adventure park.

This extreme adventure park is located next to Mirador De Turi and provides even better views of the city.  If you are looking for a little thrill and unrivaled views, there is quite a bit of stairs to climb to reach the top.  The entrance fee was nominal, maybe $2USD and included a few activities in that price. Viona crossing a wobbly rope bridge.

Our thrill seeker Viona is always first in line to try anything remotely exciting.  So she came ready to do it all.  This bridge was one of the free activities included in the entry fee.  She breezed through it.  Please note I do not know if there are any safely regulations for things like this in Ecuador and the safety equipment in place was mediocre, so please partake in these activities at your own risk and only if you are comfortable.

A happy Viona after crossing the wobbly bridge.

What Viona really came for was the cliff swing (pictured below).  I examined the situation and it held up okay with the grown man that did it right before her so I figured there was a pretty good chance she wouldn’t fall to her death.  I let her decide if she still wanted to do it once we were up there, and of course she did.  I am glad to report she survived…and loved it!

Viona swinging over a cliff with an amazing view of Cuenca, Ecuador

There is a restaurant in the park with amazing views.  To celebrate her survival, we split an Oreo shake!Viona drinking an Oreo milk shake.A restaurant patio at the Mirador de Turi.Av Mirador de Turi, Cuenca, Ecuador

Shop at the Mercado de Artesanias Rotary

Stalls at an outdoor artisanal market in Cuenca, Ecuador.

The Artisan Market is located in a square about a block from the Mercado 9 de Octubre.  It features hand made crafts from local artisans.  Woodworking and weaving seem to dominate the trade here.  Don’t forget to negotiate the price of any goods you want to purchase.  The prices will be better at this market than in a brick and mortar store.

Many different hand made artisanal baskets.

There are several great stores in Cuenca that support locally made goods from local families.  To read more about these fair trade stores and see photos, visit our Where to Shop in Cuenca page.

Vargas Machuca 1127, Cuenca, Ecuador

Stroll Along the Riverfront

A river in Cuenca, Ecuador.

I was told there are four rivers that run through Cuenca, adding extra beauty to the already scenic city.  Rio Tomebamba is the River that runs next to the Historic center.  There is a very wide accessible walking and biking path that runs along it making it a perfect place to get some light exercise while admiring more of the city.  There are also photographic bridge crossings adding to the allure of it all.

Kaida and Viona playing on a wide walking path next to a river.

Go Hiking at a Zoo!

Kaida getting a close look at an Andean bear.The Amaru Zoológico Bioparque is a privately owned non profit and leading conservation organization in the region.  They promote and educate the conservation of biodiversity and are supported by ethical, environmentalist principal values.  A great organization to support while enjoying animals in a more natural setting.  Are you ready for a hike?  I hope so!  This zoo is is located on the side of a mountain.  Take a look at the map below.  You start at the bottom and hike your way through the exhibits.

Map of the zoo.

It’s actually a great concept having a zoo incorporated into the natural surrounding so well.  It also makes for fantastic views.  I will not sugar coat it, it is a fairly strenuous hike keeping in mind Cuenca is around 8000 ft. in elevation.  I had to take several long breaks, but I also have cardiovascular issues, so likely not the norm.

A deer enclosure with a view of Cuenca in the background.

The zoo had a wide variety of species, most of which are native.  But you can expect to see everything from bears and lions to sloths and alligators.

A sloth hanging from a tree above Viona's head.

The zoo (biological park) also features an extensive section aimed at education of destruction of the environment.  There was an area that represented plastics, another for tires, another for fires, etc.  It was quite thorough with signs along the way to go along with the physical representation of the damages of each.  I have to say this was really nice to see.  In the US, we don’t typically see such a statement as many people find it easier to look the other way rather than face the facts.

Kaida and Viona making sad faces at a plastics pollution installation at the zoo.A zookeeper handling a large hawk or eagle.

If you get tired of looking at all the animals don’t forget to turn around and enjoy the view!  Make sure to wear sneakers, it really is a trek, steep in areas and after rains it can get slippery in spots.  Much of the hike is shaded by trees, so no problem if the sun is out.  I would bring lots of water but there is also a casual restaurant about half way up where you can get food and drinks.

Over a visit to this zoo is one of the best things to do in Cuenca with kids.  It checks off so many boxes; animals, hiking and views!

A family photo with a view of Cuenca in the background.www.zoobioparqueamaru.com
Hospital del Río, Azogues-Cuenca km 10, Cuenca, Ecuador

Visit Cajas National Park

A lake at Cajas National Park.

The pristine beauty can be summed up in the photo above.  Cajas National Park is about an hours car ride from the city center and one of the most popular things to do in Cuenca.  I read of some people taking a taxi out here but I am not sure how you would get a taxi back, maybe you could pay the driver to wait around?  There are tour operators that will take you, but it costs more than a taxi.  We opted to stop here on our way down to Guayaquil since that is where we were catching our flight out of the country, using a tour/transportation company.

Walking along a wooden path t Cajas National Park.

The elevation of Cajas National Park, at the location below is about 4,000m or 13,000ft.  It can be challenging to do any strenuous hiking at that elevation, so we opted to just take in the views.  Our youngest was being particularly sour that day so we weren’t going to push it.

Our family at Cajas National Park.

We saw several people doing the hike down around the perimeter of the larger lake and it didn’t appear too difficult.  For us the rugged peaks and blue skies were pretty enough to take in on a bench at the top.  Make sure to bring a good jacket, at that elevation it was quite cold and we were a little under prepared.

Viona and Kaida looking off into the distance of Cajas National Park.www.parque-nacional-cajas.org

Treat yourself to a Mani/Pedi!

Viona getting a manicure.

Ok, try not to let your jaw drop, but manicures and pedicures are $5 UDS here!!! Crazy right?  I personally am not one to get a mani/pedi but Viona LOVES it.  Since she was 3 years old she was all about the pedicures.  Since they are so expensive in the states she typically gets them on vacation only.  For $5, I couldn’t argue.  Heck, get two!  Living the life of luxury here in Cuenca.

In the historic center we saw several salons/shops offering manicures.  We just popped into one without a reservation and were served right away.

Check out the Plaza de San Sebastián

Us walking through plaza de San sebastion.

The Plaza of San Sebastián is located in a popular expat neighborhood, just a short walk from the historic center.  The plaza/park is nicely manicured and lined with cafés and eateries, including one of our favorite breakfast spots, Café San Sebas.  Check our our Where to Eat in Cuenca page for photos and more info on that delicious café

Museum of modern art in Cuenca, Ecuador.

If you are someone who enjoys the arts, the Museum of Modern Art is located on the plaza.  If you enjoy architecture, the church of Iglesia San Sebastian can be found on the opposite side of the plaza.

Iglesia de San Sebastian.

There are a few great shops in this neighborhood as well that are fair trade if you are looking for gifts or to pick up something for yourself.  Visit our Where to Shop in Cuenca page for all the details!

4X3Q+QG8, Coronel Guillermo Tálbot, Cuenca, Ecuador

Chase Pigeons

Kaida and Viona chasing pigeons through a city square.

Ok so maybe this one is geared more to the kiddos.  Don’t pretend like your kids don’t love to chase pigeons.  They all do it….right?  Or are my kids just extra special?!  No matter where we are in the world, my kids will always find a pigeon to chase.  Head over to our Cuenca with Kids page for more suggestions on kid specific things to do and what you can expect when traveling in Cuenca with kids!

Planning Things to Do in Cuenca With Kids

Do the city on foot and save the outings for whole days. The historic center, the cathedral, the flower market and the riverfront all sit within a short walk of each other, so we filled mornings with those and kept Cajas, Turi and the Biopark for their own days.

Take the altitude seriously at Cajas. The park sits well above the city, so it feels harder than the same walk at home. We kept to the shorter trails around the lakes rather than the long hike, which was plenty with kids.

The zoo is a hike, so dress for it. The Biopark is built into the side of a mountain, which is a brilliant idea and also means real walking, real hills and no strollers. Shoes, water and a snack, and it is one of the best days in the city.

Let each kid pick one thing. Viona wanted the cliff swing at Parque Extremo Turi and Kaida wanted the pigeons in the plaza, and both of those turned out to be the stories they told afterward. Neither cost much of anything.

Not every museum will be open. Homero Ortega was closed for a private event the day we went, so we watched the hat production instead, which was better anyway. Keep the day loose enough that a closed door is not a disaster.

When you have worked out the days, our where to eat in Cuenca with kids page covers the food, and the Cuenca with kids guide has the practical bits. If you want to see how we actually paced it, that is on the Cuenca family itinerary.

See & Do Gallery

The shallow river running past tree lined banks in Cuenca
A girl in a straw Panama hat inside a hat shop in Cuenca
Riding horses across the open hills outside Cuenca
The blue domed New Cathedral rising above the streets of Cuenca
The flower and craft stalls inside a covered market in Cuenca
A girl sitting in a round brick window opening in the tower of the Cathedral in Cuenca
Kaida getting a close look at an Andean bear.
The long nave and arches inside the New Cathedral in Cuenca
Viona and Mom with a panoramic view of Cuenca behind them.
A colorful street mural of a skeleton holding balloons on a wall in Cuenca
A deep blue lake ringed by paramo hills in Cajas National Park
A girl sipping an iced coffee topped with whipped cream at an outdoor table in Cuenca
The white church and courtyard at the Turi lookout above Cuenca
Our family of four with the rooftops of Cuenca spread out behind us
The grand stone facade of a historic building in central Cuenca
A vintage hat press and wooden hat blocks in a Panama hat workshop in Cuenca
A cow grazing beside a dirt hiking trail in the hills outside Cuenca
An exhibit of how panama style hats were made before modern techniques.
The red tile rooftops of Cuenca seen from a hillside lookout
A girl standing below a sloth climbing a tree at the Biopark near Cuenca
The long stairway climbing up to the Turi lookout above Cuenca
A girl standing in front of a blue and white church in Cuenca
Our family at Cajas National Park.
A girl having her nails done at a salon in Cuenca
Two girls leaning on a railing above the green hills outside Cuenca
A girl strapped into the cliff swing seat at Parque Extremo Turi above Cuenca
The altar and stained glass windows inside a church in Cuenca
Two girls climbing the narrow brick stairwell inside the Cathedral tower in Cuenca
Two girls sitting on a bench in the plaza in front of the blue domed New Cathedral in Cuenca
Woven baskets and straw hats piled high in a market stall in Cuenca
The carved and painted doors of a church in Cuenca
Kaida and Viona learning about how these hats are made.
The big red CUENCA letters on a plaza with the cathedral domes behind
Locals partaking in a traditional drink made by nuns for supposed health benefits.
Sewing room where hats get their finishing touches and alterations.
Several vendors selling bouquets and various flower arrangements.
A girl chasing pigeons across a plaza in Cuenca
The white facade of the modern art museum in Cuenca
A grass covered field while riding on a horse on a dirt road.
A tiled market corridor lined with pottery and woven goods in Cuenca
A family walking along a shaded riverside path in Cuenca
Kaida riding a horse on a forest trail.
A white church with a domed bell tower on a street in Cuenca
Map of the zoo.
A child crouched inside a brick archway in Cuenca
A square in Cuenca with pink flowering trees and a stone church behind
Two girls trying on wide brimmed Panama hats inside a hat shop in Cuenca
Rows of unfinished white Panama hats drying in a hat workshop in Cuenca
The patchwork green farmland of the Andes outside Cuenca
The pale stone facade and spires of a church in Cuenca
Kaida and Viona making sad faces at a plastics pollution installation at the zoo.
An information sign on a trail at the Biopark zoo near Cuenca
A girl on a wooden viewing deck looking out over the city of Cuenca
A tree lined walking path along the river in Cuenca
A wooden lookout tower and staircase in a park outside Cuenca
Walking along a wooden path t Cajas National Park.
The white colonial market building on the Plaza de San Sebastian in Cuenca
A girl on the cliff swing high above the city of Cuenca
Kids running after pigeons across a colonial plaza in Cuenca
A cafe terrace and high ropes course among the trees at Parque Extremo Turi
A zookeeper handling a large hawk or eagle.
A brick tower and a statue of the virgin Mary.
A deer enclosure with a view of Cuenca in the background.
A black bear climbing the wire of its enclosure at the Biopark near Cuenca
Kids framed by a stone archway looking out over Cuenca
Kids on the brick steps beside the huge base of a church in Cuenca
The blue and white domes of the New Cathedral seen from the plaza in Cuenca
Hat making equipment in the Homero Ortega factory.
Several photos of famous people wearing panama style hats.
The green hills and open valley seen from the horseback ride outside Cuenca
Eucalyptus trees on a hillside above the valley outside Cuenca
The entrance to the Museo Del Sombrero De Paja Toquilla.
A girl holding a bright bunch of flowers from the flower market in Cuenca
Rows of finished Panama hats on display in a hat shop in Cuenca
A palm lined public square in Cuenca on a bright day
Baskets, woven goods and hats at the artisan market in Cuenca
Viona with her arms up in a safety harness at the adventure park above Cuenca
A girl at the Turi lookout with the whole city of Cuenca spread out behind her
A girl jumping for the camera on a wooden deck above the Cuenca valley
Valerie, Dawson, Viona and Kaida of Little Eyes Big World on a safari truck in Kenya

Build your kids
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Heading to Cuenca? Before you go, build your kids their own free Trip Kit: a printable explorer passport, a countdown to takeoff and a scavenger hunt matched to their ages. It’s the exact kit our girls travel with!

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