Learn Spanish in Cuenca, a colonial city in the Andes and one of the most beautiful in Ecuador.
Cuenca’s historic centre, with its cobbled streets, blue-domed cathedral and riverside walks, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our school here is Sampere Ecuador, in an early 20th-century building overlooking the Tomebamba river.
Why Cuenca is a great place to learn Spanish
Cuenca is calm, walkable and known as one of Ecuador’s safest cities. People in the Ecuadorian Andes speak a clear, fairly slow Spanish, which makes it an excellent place to start or to build confidence. Ecuador uses the US dollar, living costs are low, and the city is small enough that you soon feel part of it.
- Culture Explore the New Cathedral, the flower market, the museums and the workshops where the famous toquilla straw hats (known abroad as Panama hats) are made.
- Nature Hike in Cajas National Park, with its lakes and highland landscapes, just outside the city.
- Food Try local dishes at the markets, from hearty soups to grilled meat, and take a coffee break in one of the cafés by the river.
Spanish schools in Cuenca
Sampere Ecuador
Up to 5% off all courses!What makes Cuenca special
Cuenca combines colonial architecture with a lively student life and a strong tradition of crafts. At around 2,500 metres the air is fresh and the climate spring-like all year. Ecuador is compact, so weekend trips to Andean markets and hot springs are easy, and many students add the Galápagos Islands or the Amazon to their stay.
Accommodation in Cuenca
You can stay with host families or private apartments. You book your accommodation together with your course; it usually runs from the Sunday before your course starts to the Saturday after it ends, and extra nights can be added.
Frequently asked questions about learning Spanish in Cuenca
Which Spanish courses can I take in Cuenca?
Our school in Cuenca offers intensive courses. Open the school above to see its courses, lessons per week and class sizes, and ask us if you are not sure which course suits you.
When is the best time to learn Spanish in Cuenca?
You can come all year: Cuenca has warm days and cool evenings throughout the year. June to September tends to be drier; the rest of the year brings more afternoon showers.
Is Cuenca a good place for beginners?
Yes. The Spanish spoken in the Ecuadorian Andes is clear and fairly slow, and the relaxed pace of the city makes it easy to practise.
Will the altitude be a problem?
Cuenca lies at about 2,500 metres. Most people only notice it for the first day or two; take it easy at first and drink plenty of water.
Can I combine my course with the Galápagos or the Amazon?
Yes, many students add a trip at the end of their course. Flights from Cuenca and Guayaquil make the Galápagos easy to reach; ask us if you would like tips.
Ready to learn Spanish in Cuenca?
Book online in a few minutes – there is nothing to pay until the school has confirmed your place. Or ask us: we know every school personally.