Cuenca, Ecuador: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]

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Ready to pack for Cuenca, Ecuador? If you're planning to go to Cuenca, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Cuenca, Ecuador

Based on the climate and weather in Cuenca, Ecuador, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Cuenca, Ecuador

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Cuenca, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Cuenca, Ecuador by month

January

If you visit Cuenca during January, you may find that it is mild. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Ecuador has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cuenca. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you pick the right kind. Many adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Museo y Parque Arqueológico Pumapungo, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

If you are traveling to Cuenca in February, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Ecuador has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cuenca. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to pick the necessary kind. Many adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

If you go to Museo y Parque Arqueológico Pumapungo, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

If you go to Cuenca in March, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Ecuador has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cuenca. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Museo y Parque Arqueológico Pumapungo, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

April in this region is mild. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Ecuador has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cuenca. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Museo y Parque Arqueológico Pumapungo, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

If you go to Cuenca in May, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Ecuador has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cuenca. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the right kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Museo y Parque Arqueológico Pumapungo, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

June in Cuenca is mild. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Ecuador has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cuenca. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the necessary type. Most adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you go to Museo y Parque Arqueológico Pumapungo, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

If you are traveling to Cuenca in July, you will notice that it can be chilly and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Ecuador has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cuenca. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the right kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you go to Museo y Parque Arqueológico Pumapungo, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

If you vacation in Cuenca during August, you may notice that it is balmy and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Ecuador has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cuenca. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the correct kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you go to Museo y Parque Arqueológico Pumapungo, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

If you are traveling to Cuenca in September, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Ecuador has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cuenca. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you pick the right type. The majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you go to Museo y Parque Arqueológico Pumapungo, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

If you go to Cuenca in October, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Ecuador has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cuenca. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the correct kind. Many adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

If you go to Museo y Parque Arqueológico Pumapungo, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

November in Cuenca is balmy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Ecuador has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cuenca. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

If you go to Museo y Parque Arqueológico Pumapungo, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

If you vacation in Cuenca during December, you may see that it is mild. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Ecuador has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cuenca. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

If you go to Museo y Parque Arqueológico Pumapungo, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Cuenca, Ecuador

Cuenca, the largest city in Ecuador's southern Andean region, has an enchanting mixture of colonial architecture, stunning scenery, and traditional cultural heritage that makes it a must-visit destination for tourists. This vibrant city is nestled in a picturesque valley surrounded by mountains, rivers, and rolling hills, which provide a stunning backdrop for exploring its many attractions. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Cuenca:

1. The Old Town (Centro Histórico) - The historic center of Cuenca is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for a good reason. The streets are lined with intricately designed buildings with red-tiled roofs, narrow cobbled streets, and stunning plazas adorned with fountains and flowers. The area is also home to museums, art galleries, and artisanal markets that showcase the history and culture of the region.

2. New Cathedral (Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción) - This towering cathedral is one of the most iconic structures in Cuenca. The imposing building features stunning domes, intricate stained glass windows, and uniquely designed pillars. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cathedral's interior and climb to the top for a breathtaking view of the city skyline.

3. Pumapungo Archaeological Park - This expansive park serves as a window into Ecuador's rich history and indigenous culture. The park is home to the ruins of the Inca fortress of Pumapungo, which was once a center of power for the Inca Empire. The park also features botanical gardens, traditional Andean housing, and a spectacular collection of artifacts.

4. El Cajas National Park - This vast natural wonderland boasts some of the most stunning scenery in Ecuador. It features over 200 glacial lakes, cloud forests, and paramo landscapes that provide excellent opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and photography.

5. Plaza Abdon Calderon - This lively square in the heart of the old town is an excellent spot to soak in the local culture. The plaza is surrounded by restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops, and provides an excellent vantage point to people watch and enjoy street performances.

Cuenca is a city of immense beauty and cultural richness, and it is no wonder that it's one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in Ecuador. These attractions are some of the best the city has to offer and should be on the itinerary of any traveler visiting this enchanting destination.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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