Ciudad Encantada Excursion + Cuervo River Birth

Discover Cuenca’s Hidden Natural Wonders on a Full-Day Guided Tour

If you’re looking for a true taste of Cuenca’s stunning scenery beyond the historic streets, this Ciudad Encantada excursion is a fantastic choice. Priced at about $59.48 per person, the tour offers roughly 9 hours of exploring some of the most extraordinary landscapes in the Serranía de Cuenca. Led by knowledgeable guides, it includes visits to Ventano del Diablo, the Enchanted City, the Nacimiento del Río Cuervo, and ends with a relaxing lunch beside the Uña Lagoon.

What we love most about this trip is how it combines jaw-dropping views with insightful commentary. The guides are clearly passionate about their surroundings, which makes all the difference. Another highlight is the chance to see natural formations most travelers don’t get to experience, like the Devil’s Window and the birthplace of the Cuervo River.

A possible consideration is that the long travel time can feel a bit tiring, especially with a 20-minute drive in a van that might not have air conditioning. However, the tour’s structure aims to balance this with enjoyable stops and breaks, making the journey more pleasant.

This tour is ideal for nature lovers, families, or anyone keen to get off the beaten path and see Cuenca’s natural side. It’s perfect for those who enjoy guided insight and are happy to spend a full day exploring varied outdoor landscapes, with enough free time to soak in the scenery.

Key Points

• Unique natural sights: Visit landscapes and formations that most travelers miss, including Ventano del Diablo and the Cuervo River source.
• Expert guidance: Guides like Estefano are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach.
• Value for money: Excursions at around $60 include admission and detailed commentary, offering good value.
• Flexible itinerary: Stops are well paced, with free time for independent exploration and optional meals.
• Comfortable transportation: Includes pickup from your accommodation, though beware of the van’s size and air conditioning.
• Authentic experience: Combines natural beauty with local flora, fauna, and stories, creating a memorable outdoor adventure.

Detailed Review of the Tour

The Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at 10:00 am, with a pickup service from your Cuenca accommodation. The transportation is in a passenger van, which we understand from reviews is generally comfortable, though one traveler noted it lacked air conditioning—something to consider on hot days. The van’s size keeps the group intimate (most tours cap at 30 travelers), enhancing the feeling of a personal adventure.

The drive to Ventano del Diablo is about 20 minutes, giving plenty of time for the guide to start sharing insights or answer questions while you relax. The long journey to the birthplace of the Cuervo River is balanced by a midway stop at the Enchanted City, so you’re not stuck in transit without variety.

Ventano del Diablo: A View That Rewards the Climb

Our first stop is the Ventano del Diablo, a natural karst formation with dramatic cliffs offering panoramic views. This spot is a natural exploration of erosion, where millions of years of wind and water sculpted the landscape. The viewpoint is breathtaking, and the 20-minute photo break is well worth it. It’s a perfect introduction to the region’s geological marvels, and reviews highlight the spectacular vistas as a major highlight.

The Enchanted City: Geology and Imagination

Next, we arrive at the Ciudad Encantada, in the natural park of Serranía de Cuenca. Here, your guide (like Estefano, praised for his detailed explanations) points out the strange rock formations shaped by erosion, which resemble castles, animals, and mythical creatures. The admission is included, and most visitors spend about an hour and a half wandering and snapping photos.

Reviewers consistently mention the guide’s enthusiasm and storytelling, making the visit more engaging. One said, “He explained in detail both the Enchanted City and the birth of Rio Cuervo. A boy with a lot of life ahead and very understood in nature.” This blend of scientific insight and local lore helps make the visit memorable.

Nacimiento del Río Cuervo: Nature’s Fountain

From the Enchanted City, we travel to the Nacimiento del Río Cuervo, the source of the Cuervo River. This natural monument is set in pristine surroundings, often lush and green—though some reviews note that during droughts, the water level can be lower, diminishing the visual impact. The quiet beauty of this site makes it a peaceful stop, and visitors can appreciate the pure environment that feeds the river.

One reviewer called it “incredible, especially when water levels are high,” which underscores how weather can influence the experience. Still, the walk there is lovely, and the informative commentary from guides enhances the understanding of how rivers originate and shape the landscape.

Uña Lagoon and Lunch Break

The last stop is at the Laguna de Uña, a tranquil spot next to a charming inn. This is an ideal place to unwind, enjoy local cuisine (at your own expense), and contemplate the day’s scenery. Many reviews praise the delicious food and friendly atmosphere. The 1 hour and 20-minute break is enough for a relaxed meal and some gentle exploration of the lagoon’s surroundings.

Overall Value and Experience

In total, this full-day tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of Cuenca’s natural beauty, with a good balance of guided explanation, independent exploration, and rest. The admission costs are included, which helps keep the price reasonable, and reviews mention the high level of knowledge and friendly attitude of guides like Estefano, Victor, and David.

Practical Considerations

• The long drive might be tiring for some, but the stops help break up the journey.
• The van’s lack of air conditioning, as mentioned, could be uncomfortable in the heat.
• The group size is kept intimate, fostering a friendly atmosphere.
• The timing is well-managed, with each stop offering enough time without feeling rushed.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers eager to see Cuenca’s lesser-known landscapes. It suits those who appreciate guided storytelling and don’t mind a full day of exploration. Families, too, will find the stops engaging, especially with the visual spectacles of erosion formations and river sources.

Travelers who value authentic natural experiences over crowded tourist spots will find this tour a worthwhile investment. If you’re interested in geology, local flora, or simply want a peaceful escape, this is an excellent way to spend a day.

FAQs

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks, starting at 10:00 am with pickup from your hotel.

Is transportation comfortable?
Most reviews mention a cargo van adapted for passengers, but some note the absence of air conditioning, which could impact comfort on hot days.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is at your own expense. The tour does stop at a traditional inn beside Uña Lagoon for a meal, which many guests praise for its quality.

How much walking is involved?
Expect some walking at each stop, especially at the Nacimiento de Río Cuervo and Uña Lagoon. The terrain is generally outdoor and uneven, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Are admission fees included?
Yes, the admission tickets for the Enchanted City and other natural sights are included in the price.

What’s the group size?
The tour is capped at 30 travelers, maintaining an intimate and friendly atmosphere.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most reviews indicate it’s family-friendly, especially for children interested in nature and geology, but consider the walking involved.

Final Thoughts

For those wanting to escape Cuenca’s historic streets and experience its natural geological artistry, this tour offers a well-rounded and engaging day in the outdoors. The expert guides, stunning vistas, and inclusion of key natural attractions make it a great value—especially for those who enjoy learning as they explore.

While the transportation logistics could be more comfortable, the overall experience compensates with authentic scenery and informative commentary. It’s especially suited to travelers craving adventure, photo opportunities, and local insights into the region’s geology and ecosystems.

If you’re planning a visit to Cuenca and want a full day of nature, this tour is highly recommended. Be prepared to walk, bring water, and enjoy the beauty of Spain’s rugged, eroded landscapes with guides who are passionate about sharing their knowledge.