Azuay Province, Province in southern Ecuador
The province lies in the southern highlands and stretches from deep river valleys to high mountain zones and cloud forest areas. The landscape shifts between gentle green hills, steep mountain slopes, and wide plateaus covered with grassland and lakes.
This province was created in June 1824 as part of the newly formed republic and succeeded colonial administrative structures. Its capital had served as a major hub in the Inca empire centuries earlier.
The name comes from an old indigenous word for water, pointing to the many rivers that flow through the region. People here keep traditions like weaving and pottery alive while growing crops on hillside terraces.
Travel usually happens along the main highland road or by air to the central city. Those visiting higher elevations should bring warm clothes and allow time to adjust to the altitude.
A large hydroelectric facility on the Paute River supplies much of the southern area with power and shapes the local economy. Many visitors know only the main city and miss the small villages with their markets and workshops.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
