Devil´s Nose Viewpoint and Ingapirca Ruins tour from Cuenca

Introduction

Our review focuses on a highly-rated full-day tour from Cuenca that takes travelers on a journey through some of Ecuador’s most impressive sights—the Devil’s Nose Viewpoint and the Ingapirca Ruins. While we haven’t personally joined this exact trip, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews paint a picture of an immersive and memorable experience that appeals to those who love scenic journeys with cultural depth.

Two standout features of this tour are the expert guides—noted for their knowledge and enthusiasm—and the breathtaking vistas of the train route and archaeological site. A potential consideration is the long travel time (around 10 hours), which requires a good level of physical and mental endurance, but for many, the value packed into the day more than compensates.

This tour is ideal for travelers eager to combine spectacular engineering marvels with ancient history, especially if you appreciate small-group settings that allow for more personalized attention and richer conversations. If you’re keen to see Ecuador in one comprehensive day, this could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Small-group size (maximum 15 people) enhances intimacy and personalized attention.
• The tour combines scenic train viewpoints with archaeological exploration.
• Transportation is by private vehicle, ensuring comfort and efficiency.
• Guides are highly praised for their knowledge and engaging style.
• The tour includes optional traditional Ecuadorian lunch, adding local flavor.
• It’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as some walking and hiking are optional but not mandatory.

Discovering the Journey: A Detailed Breakdown

The Early Start and Transport Comfort

The adventure kicks off early at 7:00 am with hotel pickup in Cuenca. The round-trip transport in a private vehicle promises a comfortable journey, allowing you to relax and prepare for the day’s exploration. The 3-hour transfer to Alausi sets the tone—expect scenic views of the Ecuadorian highlands along the way, a good chance to chat with your guide or simply soak in the landscape.

Having a designated driver and a small group means fewer stops and a more personal experience—a big plus for those who dislike large coach buses. Plus, the early start maximizes your time at each stop, especially considering the full 10-hour duration.

Alausi: A Charming Mountain Town

Your first stop, after arriving in Alausi, is a quick city tour. The central square offers a glimpse into local life, with the train station standing as a testament to Ecuador’s railway history. The highlight here is the Lluglly viewpoint, where panoramic views of the canton unfold—perfect for snapping photos and getting your bearings.

The tour also provides a window into indigenous culture, with local Puruha people often dressed in traditional costumes. This adds an authentic touch, enriching your understanding of the region’s living traditions.

The Devil’s Nose Viewpoint and Engineering Marvel

Next, you’ll travel about 30 minutes to the Devil’s Nose mountain viewpoint—the star of the show. This is where the tour truly shines, as the guide explains the ingenious engineering behind the train route’s famous switchbacks. The Devil’s Nose is recognized worldwide for its dramatic, hairpin-like train track that threads its way down the mountainside.

For those who enjoy physical activity, an optional trail walk from the viewpoint to the Sibambe train station offers a chance to get closer to this marvel, but it’s not mandatory. The views from this spot are spectacular enough to satisfy even the most casual observer.

Cultural and Scenic Highlights: The Train and Views

The train journey itself is what many travelers come for, and the viewpoint offers perhaps the best visual understanding of how the train navigates the steep terrain. Based on reviews, guides like Wilson and Diego are praised for their extensive knowledge and ability to make complex engineering fascinating.

One reviewer described Wilson as “the best tour guide of Ecuador,” emphasizing their enthusiasm and expertise. Another said Diego’s passion for Ecuador’s mountains made the experience especially enjoyable. This indicates that the guides’ storytelling makes the journey more than just sightseeing—they turn it into a living history lesson.

Lunch and Rest

After the train stop, there’s an opportunity for an optional traditional Ecuadorian lunch at a local restaurant. This is a great way to sample authentic cuisine and recharge for the next leg of the trip. Those opting out can choose to skip the meal to save time or accommodate dietary preferences, as vegetarian options are available upon request.

Inca Ruins of Ingapirca

Post lunch, the tour heads approximately two hours towards the Ingapirca archaeological complex. Recognized as Ecuador’s most significant Inca site, Ingapirca boasts the only elliptical Inca temple, which adds a unique architectural element to the site.

Your guide will share insights into both the Cañari and Inca cultures, explaining how they influenced each other and the significance of the site. As one reviewer noted, the guide’s storytelling made the visit highly educational and memorable. Expect to spend about an hour exploring, with the possibility to walk around and take in the impressive stone constructions and terracing.

Return to Cuenca

Following the archaeological visit, the journey back to Cuenca takes around two hours. The scenic drive offers a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights, possibly discussing the engineering feat of the train route or the ancient ruins.

The entire day wraps up around 7:00 pm, assuming a typical schedule, and the hotel drop-off completes the experience.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Pricing and Value

At $84.99 per person, the tour offers good value considering the all-inclusive transportation, professional guides, entry to key sites, and the flexibility of small-group arrangements. The price is especially competitive given the full-day scope and the quality of the experiences.

Group Size and Guides

Limited to 15 travelers, this tour fosters a friendly, engaging environment. The guides are praised consistently for their knowledge and passion, which significantly enhances the experience, transforming sightseeing into storytelling.

Physical Considerations

While the tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, some walking and optional hiking are involved. If you’re comfortable with a bit of walking and uneven terrain, you’ll enjoy the experience thoroughly. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection, as much of the day is outdoors.

Booking and Cancellation

Advance booking averages about 52 days ahead, reflecting the tour’s popularity. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the trip adds peace of mind for those finalizing travel plans.

Other Important Details

• A current valid passport is required on the day of travel.
• Vegetarian options are available, and dietary needs should be specified at booking.
• The tour operates rain or shine, so prepare accordingly.
• Mobile tickets make check-in straightforward, with pickup from your Cuenca hotel.

Authentic Experiences and Travel Tips

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with reviewers highlighting guides like Wilson and Diego for their expertise and engaging storytelling. Their ability to explain the engineering of the Devil’s Nose and the cultural significance of Ingapirca brings the sights to life.

The stunning views from viewpoints and the train itself are often described as breathtaking, making this tour perfect for photography lovers or anyone who appreciates natural beauty mixed with history.

The small-group setting ensures more interaction and personalized attention, which elevates the experience beyond a typical bus tour. It’s suitable for those wanting a relaxed, immersive day that balances scenic beauty, history, and local culture.

The Sum Up

This tour offers an excellent way to experience Ecuador’s diverse highlights in a single day. Combining spectacular engineering marvels like Devil’s Nose, the rich history of Ingapirca, and the hospitality of a knowledgeable guide makes it a well-rounded choice. The small-group format enhances the feeling of an exclusive adventure, while the inclusion of optional local cuisine adds a genuine cultural touch.

If you’re passionate about scenic train routes, archaeological sites, and local traditions, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially suited for travelers wanting an organized, insightful day that balances comfort with authenticity—perfect for those who prefer traveling with a small group and expert guides.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:00 am with hotel pickup in Cuenca.

How long is the total duration?
Approximately 10 hours, including transport, sightseeing, and meals.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
The tour requires moderate physical activity, including walking and optional trail walking at the Devil’s Nose viewpoint. Travelers should have a moderate fitness level.

Are meals included?
Lunch is optional and can be added at a local restaurant. Vegetarian options are available if requested at booking.

What do I need to bring?
Carry a valid passport, comfortable shoes, sun protection, and any personal essentials. The tour operates rain or shine.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the round-trip transfer is in a private vehicle designed for comfort, making the long drive more pleasant.

How many people typically join the tour?
The group size is limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

This full-day adventure offers a fantastic way to connect with Ecuador’s natural beauty, engineering ingenuity, and ancient cultures—an accessible, enriching experience for curious travelers.