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Ingapirca
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Historical site
Ingapirca is the largest known Inca ruin site in Ecuador, located in Cañar province at an altitude of about 3,200 meters. Built by the Inca in the 15th century, it served as a ceremonial center and fortress. The most notable structure is the Temple of the Sun, an elliptical building made of precisely cut stones. The complex also includes residential areas, storehouses, and an observatory. Ingapirca was an important stop on the Inca road, the Qhapaq Ñan. After the Spanish conquest, the site fell into disrepair but was restored in the 20th century. Today, it is a significant archaeological monument and tourist attraction, offering insights into Inca culture and their interaction with the local Cañari people.
- Location: Ecuador
- Top sights: Escalera inca · Cerro Molobog Grande · Ingapirca
- Nearby: Gualaceo (14 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Sep, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 |
| Rain mm | 101 | 116 | 143 | 130 | 110 | 99 | 75 | 67 | 61 | 95 | 99 | 95 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Ingapirca is an archaeological site that can be visited for an entrance fee. Visitors can freely walk the entire grounds and explore the Temple of the Sun and Inca stone structures.
Typical hours
The site is typically open daily from about 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. On holidays or in the rainy season, hours may vary.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the site. Do not use flash inside the Temple of the Sun to protect the delicate stone carvings.
Time needed
A thorough walk through the site takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Those wanting to explore the surrounding area should allow half a day.
Combine with
Nearby is the pretty town of Cañar with a small museum. A trip to Cuenca (about 1.5 hours) is also worthwhile for its historic old town.
Getting there
Ingapirca is about 80 kilometers northeast of Cuenca. By car or bus, you can reach it via the Panamericana highway and a well-maintained side road.
Insider tip
Wear sturdy footwear as the paths can be uneven. Bring a rain jacket because the weather in the Andes is changeable.
Geography
Facts
- Altitude: 3,200 meters above sea level
- Built: 15th century
- Height of Temple of the Sun: 12 meters
- Site extent: about 4 hectares
- Distance from Cuenca: about 80 kilometers
- UNESCO World Heritage: part of Qhapaq Ñan (since 2014)
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Ingapirca (8)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Ingapirca?
The most important Inca ruins in Ecuador, featuring a unique elliptical Temple of the Sun.
What are the opening hours?
Daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. A guided tour is often mandatory.
How much is the entrance fee?
The price for foreigners is typically around 2 to 6 USD.
How far is it from Cuenca?
About 80 kilometers; the drive takes approximately 2 hours.
What should you bring?
Warm clothes and sunscreen, as it is at 3,200 meters and the weather is changeable.
Ingapirca: where is it located?
Ingapirca is located in Ecuador.
Ingapirca: what is there to see?
Highlights include Escalera inca, Cerro Molobog Grande, Ingapirca.
Ingapirca: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Sep, Dec.
Ingapirca: why is it worth visiting?
Ingapirca is the largest known Inca ruin site in Ecuador, located in Cañar province at an altitude of about 3,200 meters.
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