Beyond Cuenca: Azuay's 'Carnaval Bakansote' Brings 160+ Events Across the Province

Looking for a reason to explore beyond city limits this Carnival? The Prefectura del Azuay has you covered. Their "Carnaval Bakansote 2026" program spans the entire province with more than 160 events across multiple cantons -- and the infrastructure is ready to handle the crowds.

What's on Offer

The provincial government has coordinated a massive lineup that includes:

• Traditional food festivals featuring mote pata, cuy, and regional specialties
• Live music and dance performances in town plazas
• Artisan markets showcasing Azuay's famous crafts
• Cultural activations highlighting indigenous and mestizo traditions
• The Carrera de los Rucos -- a beloved traditional race
• Festival Carnaval de Izhkayaku -- celebrating ancestral water traditions

Ready for Visitors

The numbers are impressive: 12,000 hotel rooms across one- to five-star properties and more than 600 food establishments are prepared for the influx. That's a strong signal that Azuay is serious about making Carnival a provincial event, not just a Cuenca affair.

Where to Go

Gualaceo (35 min from Cuenca)

Known as the "Garden of Azuay," Gualaceo comes alive during Carnival with food festivals, artisan shoe markets, and traditional music. Don't miss the local mote pata -- many say it's better here than in the city.

Chordeleg (45 min from Cuenca)

Ecuador's jewelry capital. Browse silver and gold filigree while enjoying Carnival festivities in the central plaza. The artisan market is worth the trip any time, but Carnival adds energy and street food vendors.

Paute (40 min from Cuenca)

The warm microclimate in the Paute Valley makes it a popular escape. Expect outdoor festivals, fruit markets, and a more relaxed Carnival vibe than the city center.

Yunguilla Valley (1.5 hrs from Cuenca)

If you want warmth and scenery, the subtropical Yunguilla Valley offers a change of pace. Haciendas and small hotels fill up fast during Carnival, so book ahead.

Getting There

All of these destinations are easy day trips from Cuenca by bus or car. Buses to Gualaceo and Chordeleg leave from the Terminal Terrestre every 15-20 minutes. Paute buses depart from the same terminal. For Yunguilla, you'll want your own vehicle or a hired driver.

Tips for Expats

• Go early -- Roads get congested during Carnival weekend, especially Saturday and Sunday
• Bring cash -- Small-town vendors and restaurants often don't accept cards
• Dress for water -- Carnival water traditions are alive and well in rural cantons, sometimes more aggressively than in the city
• Try the local mote pata -- Each canton has its own variation, and tasting the differences is half the fun

Sources: Primicias, El Mercurio, Nueva Mujer