How to get to Cuenca

Picturesque Cuenca, nestled in a valley of the southern Andes, is rightfully considered a cultural jewel and one of the most beautiful colonial cities in Ecuador. If you are planning a trip to Cuenca, you will be pleased to know that transport links to this region are excellently established for comfortable tourism. Solving the question of how to get to Cuenca is effortless: travellers can choose between a domestic flight, an intercity bus journey, or a trip by car.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the "Athens of Ecuador" is by air. The city is served by Mariscal Lamar International Airport (CUE), which is located in close proximity to residential areas and the tourist centre. Landing here is often accompanied by breathtaking views of the mountain ranges surrounding the valley, and the airport itself provides convenient access to the main attractions.

Alternatively, you may consider flying into neighbouring cities if it suits your itinerary better. The nearest major aviation hub is Guayaquil, located approximately 126 kilometres from the destination; arrival options via Loja or Santa Rosa are also available. The local airport is well-connected to the city, allowing tourists to begin their exploration of Cuenca almost immediately after collecting their luggage.

There is no direct railway connection to Cuenca, as this high-altitude city does not have an active train station. The complex terrain of the Andes makes laying tracks difficult, so trains are not a primary mode of public transport here.

If you are planning a complex route, it is best to orient yourself towards nearby major cities such as Loja and Santa Rosa, or arrive in Guayaquil. From these points, the journey to your destination will need to continue by bus or rental car, allowing you to enjoy the scenic views of Ecuador.

Bus travel is one of the most affordable and scenic ways to get to Cuenca, allowing you to enjoy the changing landscapes from the coast to the highlands. The most popular route is from the major port city of Guayaquil: covering a distance of about 200 kilometres, the transport ascends into the mountains, and the travel time is approximately 3.5–4 hours.

If you are travelling from the south of the country, it is convenient to take a service from the city of Loja, which is 215 kilometres away from the destination, with the journey along winding roads taking about 4.5 hours. There is also regular service from the city of Santa Rosa: this route, spanning 170 kilometres, usually requires about 4 hours of travel.

Travelling by car offers you the freedom of movement and the opportunity to stop at the most beautiful viewpoints in the Andes. The picturesque route from Guayaquil, spanning 197 kilometres, takes about 3.5 hours and is memorable for the impressive change in scenery as you climb into the mountains. Equally fascinating is the road from Santa Rosa: the 175-kilometre journey can be covered in approximately 3.5–4 hours.

For travellers heading from the south of the country, departing from Loja is convenient: the distance of 211 kilometres is usually covered in 4 hours of calm driving along winding roads. If you do not plan to rent a car, you can use intercity taxi services or a private transfer, which ensures maximum comfort and "door-to-door" delivery.

To ensure your trip to Cuenca is as comfortable and carefree as possible, it is worth learning about some local nuances in advance. We have compiled a list of practical recommendations that will help you easily navigate the city and enjoy the atmosphere of Ecuador without any hassle.

1. Clothing and Climate. Weather in the Andes is changeable: locals joke that you can experience all four seasons in a single day. The best strategy is to dress in layers, so you can put on or take off a jacket as needed. During the day, the sun can be hot, but evenings are always cool. Be sure to carry an umbrella or raincoat.
2. Transport. The historic city centre is compact and is best explored on foot. For longer distances, use yellow taxis—they are affordable and safe, but always ensure the driver switches on the meter (taxímetro). Another convenient way to get around is the modern tram (Tranvía), which connects key points of the city.
3. Finances. The official currency of the country is the US Dollar. It is extremely important to carry plenty of small bills (1, 5, 10, and 20 dollars) and coins. Small shops, taxis, and markets often do not have change for 50 or 100-dollar bills. Credit cards are accepted in supermarkets and restaurants, but cash remains the primary means of payment.
4. Health and Sun. The city is located at an altitude of about 2,550 metres above sea level. To avoid altitude sickness, do not overexert yourself on the first day and drink plenty of water. Remember that on the equator, the sun is extremely active: use high SPF cream and wear a hat even in cloudy weather to avoid burns.
5. Communication. Although staff in tourist areas may speak English, Spanish is the primary language. Locals will appreciate it if you learn a few basic phrases. We recommend downloading offline maps and a translator on your smartphone in advance, as mobile internet may not be stable everywhere.
6. Local Etiquette. Ecuadorians are very polite and welcoming people. It is customary to greet others ("Buenos días", "Buenas tardes") when entering a shop, elevator, or boarding a taxi. Polite behaviour often guarantees you better service and sincere assistance.
7. What to Avoid. Cuenca is considered one of the safest cities in the country, but one should not lose vigilance. Do not leave belongings unattended and try not to display expensive phones or cameras in crowded places and markets. Also, avoid walking alone on the outskirts at night.
8. Shopping Tip. If you plan to buy the famous Panama hat (Sombrero de Paja Toquilla), do it here. Cuenca is the world centre for the production of these hats, and here you will find the largest selection and best prices by buying directly from artisans or in specialised museum-factories.

By following these simple tips, you can feel confident and safe in one of the most charming cities in South America. May your journey be filled only with pleasant discoveries and vivid impressions!