Cultural Tour Ingapirca Ruins + Gualaceo & Chordeleg from Cuenca
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Enjoy a special tour that complements archaeology and history at the Ingapirca archaeological complex located in the province of Cañar with a visit to artisan workshops in the Azuay cantons of Gualaceo and Chordeleg.
This adventure has been designed for all types of tourists since the activities require little physical effort and allow you to enjoy beautiful landscapes and also learn about gastronomy, culture and crafts such as filigree jewelry and 100% handmade textiles.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
A minimum of 1 person per booking is required
Child rate applies only when sharing with 1 paying adult
Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Parroquia de Ingapirca
The guide will pick you up from your hotel or airbnb in Cuenca to travel 1:30 hour to the parish of Ingapirca where is located the most important archaeological complex of Ecuador.
Ingapirca Archaeological Complex
Here, your guide will explain about the Cañari and Inca cultures traveling by sectors Cañari-Inca walls and appreciating the unique elliptical temple which was the Tahuantinsuyo. When the wheater is good people can enjoy a beautiful andean scenary.
What‘s Included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Professional guide
Lunch ( less in the option without lunch)
Transport by private vehicle
Drinks
Tips
Ingapirca Archaeological Complex
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Options
Private tour
Private Tour: Option designed according to your requirements, you decided the pick up time and other details.
Pickup included
Group tour without lunch
Group Tour without Lunch: Perfect option for people who prefer to bring their own food.
Pickup included
Group tour with local lunch
Perfect option for people who like to eat in a local restaurant.
Pickup included
Reviews
44 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great tour in Spanish for a Spanish learner
aarondW7027BD,,Sep 15, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I had a great trip with Eddy from Polylepsis Tours. Eddy picked me up at 8am, and I got back to my accommodation at 4PM. Eddy was very knowledgeable about the Ingapirca, Chordeleg, and was also able to provide a lot of interesting information about daily life in Ecuador. I'm a native English speaker, and Eddy's English is good, however at my request Eddy did the tour in Spanish. His Spanish was clear and easy to understand for me, and he was patient in my attempt to communicate. I would recommend Polylepis Tours.
Amazing Ecuador
Sylvana C,,Mar 8, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A Fantastic Day Trip to Ingapirca, Gualaceo and. Chordeleg – A Must-See in Ecuador! Our day trip to Ingapirca Ruins was an unforgettable experience! From start to finish, everything was perfectly organized, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination itself. The scenic drive from Cuenca to Ingapirca was breathtaking, with rolling green hills, charming villages, and glimpses of the famous Andean countryside. The weather cooperated and was unusually clear. Our guide Sebastian from Polylepis tours was incredibly knowledgeable, sharing fascinating insights about Ecuador’s history, the Cañari and Inca cultures, and the significance of Ingapirca as Ecuador’s most important archaeological site. Upon arrival, the grandeur of the ruins was truly mesmerizing. The Temple of the Sun, with its precisely cut stones, showcased the incredible engineering skills of the Incas. Walking through the site, I could feel the history come alive, imagining how this place once thrived as a religious and ceremonial center. The contrast between Cañari round structures and Inca rectangular designs was intriguing, a testament to the blending of these two cultures. Sebastian explained this beautifully. After exploring the ruins, we had time to enjoy a canelazo and even spotted some wild llamas roaming nearby! Gualaceo, a lively town known for its traditional markets and weaving workshops. Visiting a local ikat weaving workshop was one of the highlights! We watched skilled artisans create intricate handwoven textiles using ancient techniques passed down for generations. The level of detail and craftsmanship was truly impressive. I bought a beautiful chalupa from Makana after seeing Master Jose’s wife show us how she does them. I would have bought the complete shop of if I could have. We also explored Gualaceo’s vibrant market, where we sampled fresh tortillas con queso. Not to be confused with quesadillas, those we sampled at a local bakery. They are a sweet treat you must enjoy with coffee. We made our way to Chordeleg, a town famous for its exquisite handmade jewelry. Strolling through the picturesque streets, we admired the beautifully crafted silver and gold filigree pieces, a testament to the town’s deep-rooted tradition in jewelry-making. I bough some exquisite earrings to take home with me of beautiful filigree orchids. Sebastian was nice enough to take us to the Orchid museum and it was well worth it!! A must see for all you plant lovers To top it all off, we enjoyed a delicious traditional Ecuadorian lunch at a local restaurant, savoring locro de papa and a chicken and beef seco. Overall, this tour was a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for a unique experience in Ecuador, Ingapirca is a must-visit! Highly recommended!
Fun through learning
nickbH8865CH,,Feb 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our guide, Juan Pacheco, created an educational, memorable experience through the Ingapirca site and related visits. Not only was he knowledgeable about history and, archeology, he also "taught" us some Kichwa phrases. Good walks, good lunch made for a satisfying day trip
Knowledgeable, friendly, awesame places to visit.
CAROLINA C,,Jun 4, 2024
- Review from Viator
5.00My guide Wilson was very knowledgeable and friendly. I was happy with the amount of time we took in each of the places we went. Also, the fact that he suggested trying authentic foods/drinks from those places. Beautiful places.
Great day out of Cuenca
Timothy L,,Apr 15, 2024
- Review from Viator
5.00Our guide Diago was outstanding. On time, very good driver. Knowledgeable and patient. We could not have asked for anyone better. We really enjoyed all the stops we made and did not feel pressured into buying anything. Lunch was very tasty with local prepared and sourced food.
Great day out
TSL1UK,,Apr 14, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Diego was a great guide and a really good driver, best we have had in Ecuador. He had great knowledge of his country and history and made the day go along smoothly. We had time for a little shopping and lunch was very good.
All day Ingapirca Tour
Explore522461,,Nov 29, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our Tour guide was very knowledgeable about all the locations that we went to. The lunch included was delicious. It was a educational, adventurous day. I highly recommend this tour!!
Ingapirca Ruins
798MartinH798,,Oct 15, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Absolutely amazing experience and trip. Diego was a very professional guide, and his knowledge of the Ingapirca Ruins made for an unforgettable trip. I can highly recommend this trip & Diego as a guide for anyone visiting the Ingapirca Ruins.
Great tour guide!
ethanmP9985SC,,Jun 30, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our guide, Edison, really went the extra mile during the Ingapirca tour. He answered all our questions knowledgeably, and he speaks both Spanish and English.
Experience the wonders of the Incas and the Ecuadorian Sierra
Carol H,,Jun 8, 2023
- Review from Viator
5.00This is probably the most interesting, scenic, and value-packed tour we’ve ever taken. We first took it last year when scouting Cuenca as a retirement destination—and I went again yeaterday with my daughter. Both times, Diego was our guide—and he is not only a wealth of information but also a delightful person. I highly recommend this tour and Diego in particular.
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Operated by Polylepis Tours