Towns and Villages

Biblian

Is situated between Cañar and Azogues, high up above Biblián, you will find the Santuary of theVírgen del Rocío, a rather impressive site for tourists with a gothic style church made of hand-carved stone and attractive sanctuary carved into the rocky mountain side above the village to La Virgen del Rocío (Virgin of the Dew). This is a small town with beautiful views of the river valley and its surroundings.

Tambo and Deleg

Tambo (43 km from Azogues) also has a church with several valuable pieces of religious art and in Déleg (25 km from Azogues) you can see colorful handicrafts such as shigras (bags), colorful belts, and ponchos.

Cojitambo

Is another town one hour west of Azogues with rocky surrounding areas good for trekking and climbing. It has the same name as the historical mountain nearby, this elevation has the form of a sleeping lion, and was adored by the ancient tribes of the area. The summit is known as Cañari lookout and allows 30 km. views in all directions. There is a cave called “Mazhojútcu” where you can find bats and small departments with carvings on walls from our ancestors. There are several archaeological sites made in stone. It is said this with many other mountain top sites where lookout points to safe-guard the population from foreign armies (The Incas).

Gualaceo

In northern Azuay and just a half hour from Cuenca, is famous for its fine woven and embroidered textiles, leatherwork, and ceramics.

Sigsig

Is well known for its high-quality, internationally known toquilla straw (a.k.a. Panama) hats as well as for the quality of the apples they produce. You can also visit nearby Chopsi Cave where traces of the region’s first inhabitants have been found.

Chordeleg

For craft hunters in an array of talents and materials such as silver, Panama hats, pottery, gold Filigree and wood crafts can be found in Chordeleg, south from Gualaceo and 1 hour from Cuenca.

This village has a plethora of tourists daily visiting and shopping. Jewelry can be appraised for free at the town hall to avoid making a bad purchase. Ceramics also are well promoted in various shops as well as lovely local rustic gifts. Shop around for some alternatives on Juan B. Cobos and Eloy Alfaro street.
The village also boasts a small museum Museo de Comunidad with absorbing local straw work, ceramics and textiles some of which you may buy at fair prices.