How To Get From Baños to Cuenca: 4 Ways Explained

We travelled from Baños to Cuenca ourselves and researched all the best ways to make the journey.

Ecuador is one of my favourite countries to date. It was my first introduction to the indigenous ways of South America. I loved our time there and wish I could have spent longer there. Our route included the trip from Baños to Cuenca.

So we had to do our research to find the most ideal way – just like you’re doing! I’ve made it easier by listing all viable ways of travelling.

There are more, like taking a bus back to Quito and flying, but that would take just as much time as option 1 and is incredibly bad for the planet compared to a bus journey – not to mention the massive price difference.

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Baños to Cuenca: The 4 Different Options

Let’s get to it. There are four ways to travel from Baños to Cuenca. Each option has its own pros and cons, so choose the one that best suits your budget, time constraints, and personal preferences. I’ve also made a guide on how to get to Baños from Quito.

Option #1 – Baños to Cuenca by direct bus

Duration: 07:30 | Price: $10

The first option is the one most people take—a direct bus. We chose to take this option, and it’s a great way to see more of the country. The journey takes around 7-8 hours, depending on traffic and how many people are picked up along the way.

In our case, the driver had to take a massive detour because of a landslide on the road. The road was completely covered, and the detour we took took us over a gravel road through the mountains without enough space for all the trucks and other buses trying to pass. We even got stuck for an hour because the traffic didn’t fit on the road.

This whole fiasco added 3 hours to our journey. I guess that’s what happens when backpacking South America. Not everything is as smooth as you’d like.

Bus tickets can be purchased at the Baños bus station. They usually cost around $10 per person. The buses are comfortable and air-conditioned, and some have toilets on board. We were told we could just show up and get our ticket, but the bus was full when we left. I recommend buying it the previous day.

Pros:

• Direct route
• Comfortable bus ride
• Affordable price

Cons:

• Long travel time
• Very limited departure times

Option #2 – Baños to Cuenca via Ambato

Duration: 08:00 | Price: $14

Taking a bus via Ambato might be a good option if you’re looking for a slightly different route to Cuenca. This option takes around 8 hours and costs around $14.

The journey is divided into two parts: Baños to Ambato and then Ambato to Cuenca. Depending on traffic, the first part will take 1-2 hours, and the second part will take 5-6 hours.

The bus from Baños to Ambato is a normal-sized local bus, so it might not be as comfortable as the direct route. However, once you reach Ambato, you’ll switch to a larger coach bus for the remainder of the journey. This means more legroom and potentially more comfortable seats.

One benefit of this route is the opportunity to explore Ambato, a city known for its fruit production and annual flower festival. If you have some extra time, it might be worth stopping here for a day or two before continuing on to Cuenca.

Pros:

• Opportunity to visit and explore Ambato

Cons:

• Longer travel time with two separate bus rides
• Not as direct of a route compared to the previous option

Option #3 – Baños to Cuenca via Riobamba

Duration: 08:00 | Price: $12

Lastly, you can also take a bus via Riobamba to get from Baños to Cuenca. This option takes around 8 hours and costs around $12.

Similar to the previous option, the journey is divided into two parts: Baños to Riobamba and then Riobamba to Cuenca. The first part will take 2-3 hours, and the second will take 5-6 hours.

And again, the first bus is smaller, and the second bus is a coach.

Riobamba is the oldest city in Ecuador and is known for its traditional markets. It is near Chimborazo Volcano. You can also take a side trip to visit the famous Devil’s Nose train ride from Riobamba.

Pros:

• Opportunity to visit and explore Riobamba
• Potential side trip to Devil’s Nose train ride
• Visit the oldest city in Ecuador

Cons:

• Longer travel time with two separate bus rides
• Not as direct of a route compared to the previous option

Option #4 – Baños to Cuenca by private driver

Duration: 06:00 | Price: $250

If you prefer a more comfortable and direct option, you can also hire a private driver to take you from Baños to Cuenca. This will cost around $250-$300 and will take approximately 6 hours.

Although it may be pricier, this option allows for more flexibility in terms of stopping for photos or breaks along the way. It also eliminates the need to change buses, making it more convenient for those who don’t enjoy long bus rides or have a lot of luggage.

Pros:

• Direct route with no need to change buses
• More flexibility and comfort

Cons:

• Higher cost compared to other options
• Less opportunity for exploration and sightseeing on the way

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Arriving in Cuenca

Upon your arrival, you’ll be at the city’s bus station, Terminal Terrestre de Cuenca, which is well-equipped and bustling with activity. It’s located a bit outside of the city centre, but don’t worry, getting to your next destination is easy.

You can grab a taxi right outside the terminal. Depending on your exact destination and the time of day, a ride to the city centre should cost $2. Discuss the price before getting in to ensure it is fair.

It’s a good idea to have your hotel or accommodation address handy in Spanish to show your driver, ensuring a smooth transition from your arrival point to where you’ll be staying. We usually don’t want people to know exactly where we will be staying, so we opt to get dropped off at a nearby restaurant or square and walk the last 2-3 minutes.

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Where to Stay in Cuenca

Welcome to Cuenca! Cuenca is one of the reasons we decided to go to Ecuador. Now that you’re here; you’ll need a comfy bed to sleep in. Here are my three recommendations, depending on budget:

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Final Thoughts – Baños to Cuenca

Travelling from Baños to Cuenca is an adventure that combines the beauty of Ecuador’s landscapes with the comfort and convenience of modern transportation. Whether you choose the more economical bus route with a transferral in Ambato or opt for the direct, albeit pricier, private driver service, you’ll be treated to scenic views and a chance to meet fellow travellers sharing your route.

Arriving in Cuenca, you’ll feel welcomed by the city’s charm, with easy taxi services to get you settled into your accommodation quickly. From the adventurous bus rides to the welcoming streets of Cuenca, this trip is bound to be filled with memorable moments and beautiful landscapes.

No matter how you choose to travel, you’re in for a great experience. Safe travels, and enjoy every minute of your exploration of Ecuador’s breathtaking scenery.