The Full Day Ingapirca Archaeological Site and Cuenca City Tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through Ecuador’s rich history. Exploring the ancient ruins of Ingapirca, built over 500 years ago by the Inca and Canari civilizations, is a highlight. But the tour doesn’t end there – it also immerses travelers in the vibrant local culture of Cuenca, showcasing the renowned Mercado 10 de Agosto. With an experienced guide, included lunch, and more, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. What secrets and insights might this journey uncover for those who decide to embark on it?
Good To Know
- Comprehensive full-day tour exploring the Ingapirca Archaeological Site and the historic city of Cuenca, featuring ancient Incan and Canari civilizations.
- Guided tour of the Ingapirca Ruins, the most significant pre-Columbian site in Ecuador, with insights into its historical significance.
- Immersive visit to the vibrant Mercado 10 de Agosto, showcasing daily life and local delicacies in Cuenca.
- Inclusive package with private transportation, lunch, and professional driver/guide, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
- Highly recommended with a 100% recommendation rate and excellent customer reviews.
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Tour Overview
This full-day tour allows visitors to explore Ingapirca Archaeological Site, Ecuador’s most important Inca ruin, and the charming colonial city of Cuenca.
The tour boasts a 100% recommendation rate from 10 reviews and includes visits to significant landmarks and attractions.
Travelers can expect to learn about ancient Incan and Canari civilizations, explore construction methods dating back 500 years, and wander through a colorful local market.
The tour includes lunch, a private vehicle with free snacks, and a professional driver/guide.
Pickup from hotels or apartments is provided, but the tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions or mobility issues.
Itinerary Highlights
The Ingapirca Ruins are the highlight of the tour, allowing visitors to learn about the ancient Incan and Canari civilizations. Guests will explore the construction methods of this 500-year-old site, marveling at the impressive stonework.
| Itinerary Highlights | Duration |
|---|---|
| Ingapirca Ruins | 1 hour |
| Mercado 10 de Agosto | 10 minutes |
| Cuenca City | N/A |
| Lunch | Included |
| Local Guide | Provided |
Following the ruins, the tour explores Mercado 10 de Agosto, a vibrant local market where guests can enjoy the vibrant Ecuadorian culture. From there, the day concludes with a visit to the beautiful city of Cuenca.
Ingapirca Ruins
Located in the Cañar province of Ecuador, the Ingapirca Ruins stand as the most significant pre-Columbian archaeological site in the country.
Constructed over 500 years ago, this Inca and Cañari architectural marvel offers visitors a glimpse into the sophisticated building techniques and cultural practices of these ancient civilizations.
Explorers can wander the remains of temples, residences, and plazas, marveling at the intricate stonework and strategic placement of structures.
The site’s guided tour provides insight into the site’s historical significance, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the ingenuity and achievements of the Inca and Cañari peoples who called this place home centuries ago.
Mercado 10 De Agosto
What makes the Mercado 10 de Agosto a must-visit attraction during the Ingapirca and Cuenca City Tour? This vibrant local market offers a glimpse into the daily life of Cuencanos.
Visitors can stroll through the colorful stalls, which sell a variety of fresh produce, traditional handicrafts, and local delicacies. The market’s lively atmosphere and friendly vendors create an authentic experience for travelers.
The visit to the Mercado 10 de Agosto lasts approximately 10 minutes, providing a brief but memorable respite from the archaeological site and city sightseeing. This free-to-enter market adds a cultural element to the tour, allowing travelers to enjoy the local community.
Inclusions and Amenities
With lunch included in the tour price, unless opting for no lunch, visitors can enjoy a delectable meal during their excursion.
The tour also provides a private vehicle stocked with free snacks and drinks, ensuring travelers remain comfortable and refreshed throughout the day.
Plus, the tour is led by a professional driver/guide and local guide, providing knowledgeable insights and support.
Tips are also included, eliminating the need for additional out-of-pocket expenses.
The tour’s amenities cater to a wide range of traveler needs, creating a seamless and enjoyable experience.
- Private vehicle with free snacks
- Drinks and tips included
- Professional driver/guide and local guide
- Lunch included (unless opting for no lunch)
Pickup and Accessibility
The tour offers hotel or apartment pickups, ensuring a hassle-free start to the day’s adventure. However, it’s important to note that the tour is not wheelchair accessible. Plus, a valid passport is required on the travel day, and the tour is not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.
| Pickup Location | Accessibility |
|---|---|
| Hotels | Not Wheelchair Accessible |
| Apartments | Valid Passport Required |
| – | Not Recommended for Certain Travelers |
Booking Information
The tour pricing starts at $54.99 per person, with the final cost varying depending on group size.
Customers have the flexibility to reserve now and pay later. There’s also free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the experience.
Reviewers have given the tour an impressive 5.0 overall rating based on 10 reviews, with 9 five-star and 1 four-star rating.
Key booking details:
- Price starts at $54.99, varies by group size
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience
- Reserve now and pay later option available
- Overall rating: 5.0 based on 10 reviews (9 five-star, 1 four-star)
Reviews
Reviewers have overwhelmingly praised the Igapirca and Cuenca City Tour, with an impressive 5.0 overall rating based on 10 reviews. Of the 10 reviews, 9 are 5-star, and 1 is 4-star.
One reviewer noted that the guide, Wilson, was "excellent, very helpful and knowledgeable." Customers appreciate the tour’s highlights, including exploring the ancient Incan and Canari ruins of Ingapirca and visiting the vibrant Mercado 10 de Agosto.
The tour’s inclusions, such as a private vehicle with free snacks, a provided lunch, and a professional driver/guide, also contribute to its positive reception.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Photography Allowed at the Archaeological Site?
Photography is allowed at the Ingapirca Archaeological Site. Visitors can capture photos of the ancient Incan and Canari ruins and structures during the tour, which lasts approximately one hour.
Can Vegetarian/Vegan Options Be Accommodated for Lunch?
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options can be accommodated for the included lunch. Travelers should simply notify the tour provider of any dietary restrictions when booking the tour.
How Much Walking Is Involved Throughout the Tour?
The tour involves moderate walking throughout, including exploring the Ingapirca Ruins for about an hour and browsing the local market for 10 minutes. The tour is not recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions.
Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Tour?
The tour has no minimum number of participants. It’s a private tour, so your can book the experience regardless of group size. The price starts at $54.99 and varies depending on the number of people in the group.
Can I Bring My Own Water/Snacks on the Tour?
Yes, participants can bring their own water and snacks on the tour. The tour includes free snacks, but allowing personal items provides more flexibility and convenience for the travelers.
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The Sum Up
The Full Day Ingapirca Archaeological Site and Cuenca City Tour offers an immersive exploration of Ecuador’s rich history. Visitors can discover the ancient Inca and Canari ruins at Ingapirca, followed by a vibrant visit to the local Mercado 10 de Agosto. With included amenities and a professional guide, this highly-rated tour provides a memorable experience for travelers seeking to uncover the cultural treasures of Ecuador.