If you’re seeking a unique cultural highlight in Ecuador, Ingapirca Ruins is an unforgettable stop. This impressive archaeological site in the province of Cañar was once a center for the Inca Empire and its ancient inhabitants. Ingapirca captures Ecuadorian culture and history like no other place, making it a must-visit for any traveler.
As Ecuador’s most significant pre-Columbian ruin, Ingapirca is located about 50 miles (80 km) north of Cuenca. The name “Ingapirca” itself, meaning “Inca wall” in Kichwa, hints at the historical marvels you’ll find here. The site’s main attraction, the Inca Sun Temple, is an architectural rarity—it’s the only elliptical Incan temple in all of South America.
Here, I’ll share everything you need to know before exploring the fascinating Ingapirca Ruins.
Booking a Day Tour to Ingapirca
We booked a day tour to Ingapirca through Viator, which we stumbled upon while in Cuenca. The tour not only included a visit to the ruins but also a stop at the Sanctuary of the Virgin of the Morning Dew (Our Lady of Rocio) and a local market, adding a charming touch to our day.
Though it’s possible to visit Ingapirca independently, my wife and I found having a knowledgeable guide made a huge difference. He shared insights and stories about the ruins, making the experience come alive in a way that self-guided visits just can’t. There are guides available at the ruins as well, and, interestingly, visitors aren’t allowed to explore Ingapirca without one. But for convenience and added depth, we felt the organized tour was the way to go.
If you’re up for a more immersive experience, local agencies offer a multi-day tour around Ingapirca, which includes a three-day trek known as the Camino del Inca Hike (or Inca Trail). This option is also available for those who’d like to take on the adventure independently!
Our Experience
Visiting Ingapirca Ruins was an unforgettable experience, allowing us to wander through an ancient settlement and immerse ourselves in its history. After purchasing our entrance tickets, we waited briefly at the gate, surprised to find only a handful of other visitors there—a rare sight for such an impressive tourist spot.
As we strolled along the paths, we were delighted to see several llamas grazing freely among the ruins. These charming animals not only keep the grass naturally trimmed but also add a warm, welcoming touch to the site, making it even more inviting for travelers like us.
As we continued exploring, our guide shared the fascinating history of Ingapirca, explaining how the ruins reflect a blend of both Incan and Cañari influences. The Incas initially tried to conquer the Cañari people, but after facing resistance, they ultimately chose to coexist peacefully. This fusion of cultures is evident in the architectural contrasts that mark the site.
The Cañari, the first settlers here, built using mortar to hold rocks in place, while the Incas meticulously cut their stone blocks to fit together seamlessly, without any bonding materials. Standing among these remnants, it was awe-inspiring to see how both architectural styles preserved the legacy of two distinct cultures that once thrived in harmony.
Ingapirca is not only Ecuador’s largest and most intact Inca site but is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, underscoring its immense cultural significance.
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The Inca Temple of the Sun
Standing before Ingapirca’s Temple of the Sun was surreal—it’s the most remarkable and well-preserved structure in the entire complex.
Built around a giant rock, this temple showcases the Incas’ ingenious architecture and alignment skills, allowing them to track the seasons with sunlight alone. Our guide explained that this was also a place for sacrifices, where both humans and animals were offered to the Gods. Hearing this, we couldn’t help but feel a chill—there’s something powerful and eerie about standing where those rituals once took place.
The temple’s location was chosen for a compelling reason: nearby, the Incas found a rock formation they believed bore the face of a guardian. As we looked around, we spotted it—a distinct face, carved by nature and time. It’s said to have been a protective presence for the Inca people, and seeing it in person, it felt as if we were sharing in their ancient beliefs, even if only for a moment.
After our tour of Ingapirca, stopping at a local restaurant for lunch was exactly what we needed. The journey left us a bit drained, and the hearty meal was the perfect way to refuel before heading back to Cuenca. We enjoyed some traditional Ecuadorian dishes, sharing our impressions of the ruins and all the fascinating stories we’d heard along the way.
To top it off, we were served Canelazos, a warm, spiced drink that felt like a comforting hug in a cup. It’s a classic Ecuadorian drink with just the right balance of cinnamon and a little kick—perfect for winding down after a day of exploring ancient history. This lunch was more than just a meal; it was a chance to savor Ecuador’s flavors and reflect on the incredible day we’d had.
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How to Get to Ingapirca From Cuenca
By Bus
From Cuenca’s Terminal Terrestre, taking a bus to the Ingapirca ruins is straightforward, thanks to the direct route. It’s a comfortable ride, though the bus makes frequent stops, so expect the one-way journey to take about 2.5 to 3 hours.
Once you arrive, the bus typically stops at the ruins for around two hours before heading back to Cuenca, giving you a good window to explore. Checking the bus schedule beforehand is a smart move, as it’ll help you time your visit and make the most of your day. This easy commute option makes a visit to Ingapirca not only affordable but also accessible for a quick historical getaway from Cuenca.
By Car
Renting a car to reach Ingapirca gives you the freedom to set your own pace and spend as much time as you’d like exploring the site and the scenic routes along the way. This is exactly what we chose to do, and while it was a bit pricier, it added so much flexibility to our trip.
Car rentals are easy to find at the Cuenca airport, and we booked ours through Expedia. Even though we ended up joining a tour for the ruins, having a car allowed us to explore nearby sites around Cuenca afterward. If you enjoy exploring at your own pace, renting a car is well worth it!
By Tour
Or you can also book a tour through Viator as we did. For us, it is the most convenient way to get to Ingapirca Ruins.
Alternative Ways to Get to Ingapirca Ruins
Ingapirca is an incredible site that’s well worth including in your itinerary if you have the time. The journey, however, can be time-consuming. If you’re pressed for time or on a tighter budget, an alternative route to visit Ingapirca is from the smaller villages of Cañar, El Tambo, or Ingapirca itself.
These villages are convenient stops if you’re traveling between Cuenca and Riobamba. You can either stay overnight in one of these villages to get an early start at the ruins or take a colectivo directly to the site and then catch a bus back to Cuenca or Riobamba. It’s a great way to experience the local culture while seeing the ruins!
Bottom Line
Ingapirca truly makes for an incredible morning of exploration. The site’s atmosphere feels untouched, revealing mysteries and stories that still seem under the radar for many travelers.
For history enthusiasts, Ingapirca is a gem. There’s something amazing about connecting with a place’s culture and history while standing amidst structures that have stood the test of time. Plus, with fewer tourists around, the atmosphere remains calm and peaceful—you can take in the sweeping views and even snap some fantastic, crowd-free photos for your memories (and Instagram!).
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