
Mercado 10 de Agosto Cuenca
Cuenca's vibrant heart, this market bursts with fresh produce, authentic flavors, and unique cultural traditions.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Freshest goods, fewer crowds

Mercado 10 de Agosto Cuenca
Best Time
Freshest goods, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cuenca's vibrant heart, this market bursts with fresh produce, authentic flavors, and unique cultural traditions.
"WOW! Did I say WOW? Because it's an overwhelming, incredibly delicious, fresh market that will stun your every sense."

🎯 Taste the Hornado!
Don't leave without trying the famous hornado, often available from $3-$4.
💰 Cash is King
While some vendors accept cards or apps, cash is preferred for smaller purchases.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Authentic Hornado
Food stalls upstairs
Savor the succulent, slow-roasted pork, a quintessential Ecuadorian dish. A must-try for any food lover!

Traditional 'Limpia'
Various stalls
Experience a unique cultural ritual of energetic cleansing with herbs and smoke. A fascinating glimpse into local traditions.

Vibrant Produce Stalls
Ground floor
Marvel at the colorful displays of exotic fruits, fresh vegetables, and local ingredients. A feast for the eyes!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Best Time to Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Taste the Hornado!
Don't leave without trying the famous hornado, often available from $3-$4.
💰 Cash is King
While some vendors accept cards or apps, cash is preferred for smaller purchases.
🚶♀️ Explore Upstairs
The food stalls upstairs offer a wide variety of delicious local dishes.
🌿 Experience a 'Limpia'
Consider a traditional energetic cleansing for a unique cultural experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Taste the Hornado!
Don't leave without trying the famous hornado, often available from $3-$4.
💰 Cash is King
While some vendors accept cards or apps, cash is preferred for smaller purchases.
🚶♀️ Explore Upstairs
The food stalls upstairs offer a wide variety of delicious local dishes.
🌿 Experience a 'Limpia'
Consider a traditional energetic cleansing for a unique cultural experience.
📸 Capture the Colors
The market is a photographer's dream with vibrant scenes and friendly faces.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Mercado 10 de Agosto, calling it an overwhelming, incredibly delicious, and fresh market that stimulates all senses. It's praised for its wide variety of fresh produce, meats, and excellent food stalls upstairs, offering great value. Some note that while tastings aren't abundant, the overall experience is highly recommended.
"WOW! Did I say WOW? Because it's an overwhelming, incredibly delicious, fresh market that will stun your every sense.
From fresh meats and produce to satisfy all tastes and desires. BtW, it's Cuenca, so it's relaxing.."
Garrett Henderson
"One of best markets in town, lots of fruit options and some good deals on Kaki, Mangoes, avocados. Real cacao as well and dulce sweets. Although not many tastings, highly recommend !"
Kole Lutz
"I went to the Mercado, with in mind trying el mote sucio. I landed in las delicias de Rosita and tried it. It was delicious, I really loved it. This is si simple and at the same time soooo tasty. I like the flavours the texture. The service was very professional and friendly, I can only recommend this place in this local market, the whole experience is really worth a visit. Gracias Rosita, no pude volver pero la guardó en mi corazón. ❣️"
Fermin Gonzalez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The market is centrally located in the historic center at Calle Larga y General Torres. It's easily accessible by foot from many hotels, or you can take a local bus or taxi. Many visitors find it a pleasant walk from the main plaza.
Parking in the historic center of Cuenca can be challenging. It's often best to rely on public transport, taxis, or walking. If you do drive, look for paid parking lots in the vicinity.
Cuenca is a very walkable city, especially the historic center. Local buses are affordable and efficient for longer distances. Taxis are also readily available and reasonably priced.
While many bus routes pass through the historic center, it's best to check local bus maps or ask your accommodation for the most direct routes. The market's central location makes it accessible from various parts of the city.
The area around Mercado 10 de Agosto is generally safe, especially during market hours. However, like any busy tourist area, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Mercado 10 de Agosto is free. It's a public market, so you can wander through the stalls and soak in the atmosphere without any admission fee.
The market is typically open daily from around 6 AM to 6 PM, though some food stalls may close earlier. It's best to visit in the morning for the widest selection of fresh produce.
Weekdays offer a more local experience with fewer crowds. Weekends can be livelier with more visitors, but still offer a great atmosphere for experiencing the market's energy.
The market operates on a walk-in basis. There's no need to book anything in advance. You simply arrive and explore the various offerings.
Yes, the market sometimes hosts events, especially during local festivals like Carnival. Keep an eye out for announcements regarding music, celebrations, and special offerings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The 'hornado' (roasted pork) is a top recommendation, often available for $3-$4. Also, try 'mote sucio' (dirty mote) at 'Las Delicias de Rosita' for a delicious and simple local dish.
Many vendors upstairs offer excellent hornado. Look for stalls with a good reputation and a steady stream of customers. Elsa Cardenas at stall 555 is a recommended vendor.
While the market is known for its meat dishes like hornado, you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, juices, and some grain-based dishes that might suit vegetarian or vegan diets. It's best to ask vendors directly about ingredients.
You can find very affordable meals, with dishes like hornado starting around $3-$4. Many food stalls offer great value for money, making it a budget-friendly dining option.
Some vendors may offer samples, especially for fruits and some prepared foods. It's always worth asking politely if you can try a small taste before committing to a purchase.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally welcomed, especially for capturing the vibrant atmosphere and colorful produce. However, always be respectful and ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals.
The produce stalls on the ground floor offer incredible color and texture. The food stalls upstairs provide opportunities to capture steaming dishes and lively interactions. The people themselves are often the most compelling subjects.
The market has a mix of natural light from entrances and overhead lighting. Mornings generally offer softer, more diffused light. Be prepared for varying light conditions and adjust your settings accordingly.
Don't miss capturing the vibrant displays of exotic fruits, the preparation of local dishes like hornado, and the interactions between vendors and shoppers. The 'limpia' ritual also offers unique photographic moments.
Use flash sparingly and with consideration. In crowded areas, it can be disruptive. Natural light is often best, but if you need to use a flash, try to bounce it off a surface if possible to soften the light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Culinary Adventure
The undisputed star is the 'hornado', a slow-roasted pork dish known for its crispy skin and tender meat. You can find generous portions for as little as $3-$4, making it an incredibly affordable and delicious meal. Other must-tries include 'mote sucio' (a flavorful corn dish), 'empanadas', and fresh fruit juices. Many vendors are happy to offer samples, allowing you to explore before you commit.
Beyond the main dishes, the market is also a place to discover local sweets and artisanal products. It’s an immersive experience where you can interact with friendly vendors, learn about local ingredients, and savor the true flavors of Cuenca.
Cultural Traditions and Experiences
Street photography enthusiasts will find endless inspiration within the market's bustling aisles. The vibrant colors of the produce, the expressive faces of the vendors, and the daily life unfolding create a dynamic and authentic scene. Capturing these moments offers a deeper connection to the spirit of Cuenca.
The market also serves as a community gathering space, especially during local celebrations. During Carnival, for instance, the market buzzes with festive energy, music, and special offerings, showcasing the lively spirit of Cuencanos.
Navigating the Market
Upstairs is where the culinary heart of the market beats. Here, you'll find a wide array of food stalls offering everything from hearty meals to quick snacks. It can get busy, especially during peak meal times, so be prepared for a lively atmosphere. Don't hesitate to explore different stalls; many offer samples, and the vendors are generally friendly and eager to share their food.
While many vendors now accept digital payments or apps like Jardín Azuayo Pagos, it's always a good idea to carry some cash, especially for smaller purchases or if you encounter a vendor who prefers it. This ensures you can fully enjoy all the market has to offer without any payment hiccups.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit