What to do in Cuenca and its surroundings by car: El Cajas, Gualaceo and Chordeleg

If you are looking for what to do in Cuenca by car, you have a big advantage: besides getting to know one of the most charming cities in Ecuador, you can use it as a base to discover Andean landscapes, craft towns and natural destinations in southern Ecuador.

Cuenca combines architecture, culture, food and nature. Its Historic Center is on the UNESCO World Heritage List and, a short distance from the city, you can plan trips to places such as Cajas National Park, Gualaceo and Chordeleg.

If you arrive by air, Budget Ecuador has a service point at Mariscal Lamar Airport in Cuenca, where you can start your trip according to the conditions and availability of your booking.

What to do in Cuenca: start with the Historic Center

Before heading out to explore the surroundings, take time to walk through the heart of the city.

Places you can include in your tour:

• Parque Calderón.
• The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and its famous blue domes.
• Plaza de las Flores.
• Streets and architecture of the Historic Center.
• The Tomebamba River and its surroundings.
• Museums, cafés and restaurants in the center.

The Historic Center of Santa Ana de los Ríos de Cuenca was inscribed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1999 for its urban, architectural and cultural value. You can learn more on the official UNESCO page for Cuenca.

Cajas National Park: nature at Cuenca’s doorstep

One of the best-known getaways from Cuenca is Cajas National Park, a landscape of high moorland, mountains and lakes that offers a spectacular contrast with the city’s urban architecture.

If you plan to visit, consider:

• Checking the weather before you leave.
• Bringing clothes for lower temperatures.
• Wearing suitable footwear if you will hike.
• Bringing water and rain protection.
• Checking road conditions before starting the trip.
• Avoiding driving when tired or with poor visibility.

Mountain weather can change quickly, so it’s worth planning the day with flexibility and not relying on a tight itinerary.

Gualaceo: culture and tradition of southern Ecuador

Another interesting trip from Cuenca is to visit Gualaceo, a destination that shows a different side of the province of Azuay.

A car trip lets you plan the day more freely, stop along the way and combine different places in the same outing.

This kind of getaway can be ideal for:

• Couples.
• Families.
• Travelers interested in local culture.
• People who want to visit nearby towns without depending on fixed schedules.

Chordeleg: crafts and a perfect stop to round off the route

Chordeleg can be combined with Gualaceo on a day trip from Cuenca. This area of Azuay is known for its craft tradition and offers a different experience from the natural landscapes of El Cajas.

The advantage of making the trip by car is being able to decide how much time to spend at each stop and adapt the route to the weather, traffic and your interests.

For a getaway like this, a comfortable vehicle with enough space for passengers and shopping can make the trip more practical.

Which vehicle should you rent in Cuenca?

The right category will depend on how many people are traveling and the destinations you will include.

Before booking, consider:

• Number of passengers.
• Amount of luggage.
• Length of the rental.
• City or highway driving.
• Number of destinations you will visit.
• Space and comfort you need.

To mainly get around the city, a compact or sedan can be practical. For trips of several days, families or road trips with more luggage, you can consider categories with more space.

Check the Budget Ecuador vehicle fleet before making your booking.