In Chobshi, the archaeological record stretches far back: the complex in Sígsig includes Cueva Negra, with evidence of human settlement dating back more than 10,000 years. The historic center of Santa Ana de los Ríos de Cuenca also tells the story of Azuay’s past: it includes the Pumapungo archaeological site. In Chordeleg, meanwhile, the Llaver archaeological complex comprises terraces and 14 walls made of flat stones. These places each have a different focus—from early traces of settlement and the connection between a historic center and an archaeological site to terraces and stone walls.

Crafts and production methods

In Gualaceo, the handcrafted production of Macanas, or Paños de Gualaceo, draws on Andean textile traditions and backstrap looms. In Sígsig, the Asociación de Toquilleras María Auxiliadora showcases the process of making hats from toquilla straw. Azuay thus brings different forms of craftsmanship into focus: the production of traditional textiles on backstrap looms in one place, and the process of hat-making in another. If you are interested in how handcrafted products are made, these two topics offer different starting points.

Waterside activities and family attractions

In San Fernando, Laguna de Busa is used for open-water swimming and sports tourism. Parque de la Laguna de Busa has pedal boats, children’s play equipment, marked birdwatching trails and a cycling route. Its recreational offer therefore combines water activities with opportunities for exercise and observation. As some facilities may change, check the park’s latest information before your visit.

Paute offers something different: the linear parks along the Río Paute provide recreational activities for families. The attraction La Cuchara más Grande del Mundo combines a giant wooden spoon with agroecology and reforestation; it also has a children’s play area and a snack bar serving refreshments and drinks. The riverside parks and the giant spoon therefore have different focuses: family activities on the one hand, and a place that combines ecological themes with play and a snack bar on the other.

Parque Acuático de Guachapala offers swimming pools, slides and waterslides, green spaces, and other attractions and games around a water system. Check the facilities and operating status locally before your visit. This will help you plan with the understanding that this information reflects conditions at the site.

History, tastings and landscapes

Ruta de la Caña in Paute offers a culinary and historical perspective. It presents the history of sugarcane liquor and offers the chance to sample different varieties at Restaurante Corvel. Both the history of the drink and the flavors of its different varieties take center stage here.

Pungo Huayco in Chordeleg offers a different discovery: this natural attraction consists of six striking rock formations in a rural landscape. Together, these destinations show how varied exploring Azuay can be—through archaeological sites and crafts, waterside activities, a tasting or striking rock formations.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Cuenca, Baños, Santa Isabel, San Fernando, Paute, Gualaceo, Chordeleg, San Agustín.

For the main travel overview: Ecuador.