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Stories, tips, and insights from the expat community in Cuenca
If you've lived in Cuenca for any amount of time, you've heard of mote pata. If you haven't tried it yet, Carnival week is your moment. Here's what it is, what's in it, and where to get the best bowl in the city — from $3.50 market stalls to top-rated restaurants.
From this morning's Mote Pata workshop to Saturday night's Nicky Jam concert, here's everything happening in Cuenca for Carnival 2026 — plus Tranvía schedule changes, road patrol info, and what to know before you head out.
While the headlines scream about Ecuador's coastal violence, a quieter story is being missed: dozens of cantons across the Sierra recorded no homicides at all last year. Cuenca's among the safest cities in the country, and the data backs it up.
Ramón Pucha spends days alone in the jungle collecting seeds from endangered trees. His wife plants them. His son gives tours. The government calls their farm a 'living laboratory' — but won't fund it. Their story says a lot about Ecuador right now.
The Municipal Council unanimously approved an ordinance creating seed capital funds for local entrepreneurs — with a two-year grace period and zero interest. Here’s what it means if you’re thinking about launching something in Cuenca.
EDEC is setting up artisan and gastronomy fairs at three locations around the city from February 11–14, with a Carnival edition running right after. Here’s where to go and what to expect.
CNT flipped the switch on Cuenca’s first 5G network last week, covering the airport, bus terminal, and Historic Center. Speeds hit 1.4 Gbps in tests — about 30 times faster than 4G. Plans start at $10.
Interior Minister John Reinberg is pushing to strip municipal governments of traffic management powers and centralize control nationally. Cuenca's EMOV says not so fast — here's what it could mean for your license, your fines, and your daily commute.
On Valentine's Day, Plaza de San Francisco will host the world's largest motepata — a traditional Cuencan corn-and-pork stew — with Guinness officials on hand to certify the record. Plates are just $2.
