Azuay, Ecuador, a diverse tourist destination that combines culture, nature and tradition. Highlights include:
- Cuenca: Its capital, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, with its colonial architecture, historic churches (New and Old Cathedral), museums, rich handicrafts (especially toquilla straw hats), traditional gastronomy and active cultural life.
- El Cajas: A paramo national park with numerous lagoons, ideal for hiking, fishing, flora and fauna observation, and camping, with important altitude and climate considerations.
- Gualaceo and Chordeleg: Towns near Cuenca known for their strong artisan tradition, especially Gualaceo's Sunday market (textiles) and Chordeleg's gold and silver jewellery.
- Paute: A canton that offers a mix of nature (dam, waterfalls), adventure (water sports), and relaxation (spas).
- Other destinations: Briefly mention other places of interest in Azuay such as Sígsig (hats), Chiquintad (landscapes), Nabón (agriculture), Oña (diversity), Santa Isabel (nature), and archaeological sites.
In conclusion, Azuay presents itself as a complete destination offering varied cultural, natural and handicraft experiences in the heart of the Ecuadorian Andes.