Cuenca isn’t just a place with a famously dramatic hanging houses — it’s also a fantastic base for exploring some incredible natural and historical sights nearby. Unlike many other Spanish cities, Cuenca offers a wealth of outdoor adventures and scenic landscapes within easy reach, making it ideal for a variety of guided tours. We’re especially fond of the small-group experiences, like the Excursion to Enchanted City and Ventano del Diablo, which combine local nature with comfortable transportation and expert guides. These tours allow you to enjoy Spain’s geological marvels without the hassle of self-driving or navigating complicated routes.
Among the many options, some tours focus on breathtaking viewpoints such as Ventano del Diablo, offering spectacular views over the Júcar River. Others take you through mystical rock formations at the Enchanted City, giving a deep insight into the region’s geological history. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking some stunning landscapes, these tours provide a well-rounded way to experience Cuenca’s surroundings in a manageable timeframe. Let’s look at the top six tours that will turn your visit into a memorable adventure.
1. Excursion to the Enchanted City
At number 1, we have the Excursion to the Enchanted City, a 4-hour group trip that promises a mix of natural beauty and geological intrigue. For just $40.64 per person, you’ll explore the mysterious rock formations inside the Serrania de Cuenca National Park, guided by someone who clearly loves sharing their knowledge. The tour begins with a stop at Ventano del Diablo (Devil’s Window), a natural balcony that offers sweeping views of the landscape and is free to visit. Then, you’ll head to the Ciudad Encantada, where erosion has shaped limestone into strange shapes that evoke everything from animals to mythical figures.
What makes this tour stand out is its accessibility — it’s perfect for families or anyone wanting a straightforward, engaging trip. The guide’s commentary adds a layer of storytelling to the geological features, making it more memorable. Reviews consistently praise the guide’s enthusiasm and the clarity of the explanations, with one reviewer noting, “Our guide went all out to share his knowledge about the place with us.” This excursion offers great value for the price, especially for those pressed for time but eager to see Cuenca’s signature landscapes.
Bottom Line: An easy, affordable way to see the Enchanted City and Ventano del Diablo, ideal if you’re looking for an introduction to Cuenca’s geological marvels.
2. Excursion to Enchanted City and Ventano del Diablo
Number 2 on our list is a comprehensive 4-hour small-group tour that includes both the Enchanted City and Ventano del Diablo. For $46.44 per person, this experience offers the convenience of round-trip transportation from your hotel, saving you the trouble of figuring out how to reach these remote spots. The tour is limited to just eight people, ensuring a more personalized experience and a chance for your guide to give more detailed insights.
The itinerary includes a 2.5-hour exploration of the Ciudad Encantada inside the Serraní de Cuenca, where you’ll walk a 3 km path among rock formations like the Tormo Alto and the Roman Bridge. Afterward, you’ll visit the Ventano del Diablo, a viewpoint overlooking the Júcar River, where you can see griffon vultures soaring overhead. Multiple reviews highlight the quality of the guide — one mentions Eduardo’s capacity to explain geology, nature, and local history clearly and engagingly.
This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate small groups, comfort, and a deeper dive into the region’s natural wonders. It’s a bit pricier but offers the advantage of guided commentary and transportation, making it an excellent choice for those who want a relaxed, educational experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a more intimate trip with expert guidance, including transportation and access to two of Cuenca’s most iconic landscapes.
3. Enchanted City, Laguna de Uña, and Ventano del Diablo
For those eager to see more of Cuenca’s natural sites in one go, tour number 3 covers everything in about 4 hours for $53.36 per person. It combines visits to the Enchanted City, the Laguna de Uña, and viewpoints of Valdecabras and Ventano del Diablo — a well-rounded adventure that takes in lakes, cliffs, and rugged limestone formations.
Starting with a quick stop at Valdecabras to overlook the small town and orchards, the tour then progresses into a 3 km walk through the rock formations of the Ciudad Encantada. Highlights include the Crocodile, the Elephant, and the Mushrooms, with the guide providing detailed commentary. Later, the group visits Laguna de Uña, a picturesque lagoon perfect for photography and reflection. Many reviews mention the guide’s humor and knowledge, and one calls Pablo “funny, very knowledgeable,” noting that he shared local lore, flora, and fauna.
This tour is ideal for nature enthusiasts who want a comprehensive experience of Cuenca’s landscapes, including hikes, viewpoints, and lakes. The price reflects the added variety and time, making it a solid choice for active travelers.
Bottom Line: A full-day, multi-site tour that offers a broader taste of Cuenca’s natural beauty — perfect if you want variety and a good walk.
4. Cuenca: Enchanted City and Devil’s Window
Number 4 is a 3.5-hour guided tour that emphasizes views and local legends. Costing $51, it includes scenic stops at Ventano del Diablo and the Ciudad Encantada, plus a walk through Cuenca’s medieval quarter.
The tour departs from two starting points, then takes you by bus to Ventano del Diablo for photos and sweeping views of the Júcar Canyon. You’ll learn about the legends and geology of the Enchanted City, with time for a guided walk among the rocks. The highlight is the natural landscape combined with rural scenery and the opportunity to see raptors soaring overhead. Reviews note the guide Cristian’s engaging manner and the unforgettable natural landscapes.
Best suited for travelers with limited time who still want a taste of Cuenca’s natural and medieval charm, this tour balances scenery, storytelling, and walking.
Bottom Line: An efficient option for those wanting a mix of scenery, legends, and Cuenca’s old town, all in a half-day.
5. Enchanted City Express
Number 5 offers a shorter, 3-hour visit with a focus solely on the Enchanted City for $45.10 per person. If your time is tight but you still want to see this geological wonder, this tour hits the mark.
Starting with a circular walk through the peculiar limestone formations, you’ll see the Tormo Alto, the Ships, and the Crocodile. The route is designed to maximize your experience in less time, with about 1 hour 40 minutes on-site. The guide Pablo is praised for his fantastic personality and knowledge, making the shorter trip still lively and informative.
This tour is perfect if your priority is the Enchanted City specifically, and you prefer the convenience of a guided walk rather than self-exploring. It’s also the best value for a quick, focused visit.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a short, engaging visit to the Enchanted City without extra stops.
6. Excursion to the Enchanted City from Cuenca
Finally, number 6 is a 3.5-hour tour priced at $58.15, including transport, natural landscapes, and a visit to the Ventano del Diablo viewpoint. Starting from Cuenca, it emphasizes reliable logistics, with punctual pickups and a focus on spectacular karst landscapes.
It includes a 20-minute stop at Ventano del Diablo, where you can observe vultures and Egyptian vultures soaring overhead. Then, the main event — the Ciudad Encantada — is explored with a guided walk, highlighting geomorphological features of international importance. Several reviews praise the professionalism of the guide and the well-organized logistics.
Best suited for travelers who want a full yet efficient experience with ease of access, this tour is perfect if you prefer reliable transportation and comprehensive coverage of Cuenca’s natural sites.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for those who value organized logistics and want to see Cuenca’s top natural attractions in one comfortable trip.
How to Choose the Right Cuenca City Tour
When selecting your tour, consider your budget, available time, and specific interests. If you’re pressed for time but want just the essence of the Enchanted City, the Enchanted City Express offers a focused visit. For a more immersive experience with transportation included, the Excursion to Enchanted City and Ventano del Diablo is excellent.
If landscape variety is your goal, the Enchanted City, Laguna de Uña, and Ventano del Diablo combines lakes, cliffs, and geological formations, ideal for active travelers. For those wanting to explore Cuenca’s medieval streets alongside scenic views, the Cuenca: Enchanted City and Devil’s Window is a great pick.
Booking in advance is always wise, especially in high season, to secure your spot and avoid last-minute disappointments. Also, check the specific departure points and times to align with your schedule.
Final Thoughts
Cuenca offers a surprising variety of guided tours that showcase its natural and historical riches. Whether you prefer a short, focused visit like the Enchanted City Express, or a full-day exploration combining lakes and viewpoints, there’s an option for every type of traveler.
For those who love geology and dramatic landscapes, the Excursion to the Enchanted City and Enchanted City, Laguna de Uña, and Ventano del Diablo stand out. If convenience and reliability are your priorities, the Excursion to the Enchanted City from Cuenca offers a stress-free experience.
No matter which tour you choose, Cuenca’s landscapes are sure to leave a lasting impression. Book early and prepare to marvel at some of Spain’s most captivating natural sights.