Ruins of Todos Santos - Image 1
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Todos Santos Ruins

4.4
·56 reviews·Cuenca, Ecuador

Witness a unique fusion of Cañari, Inca, and Spanish colonial architecture, a testament to layered history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime observation

Best light for viewing

CrowdLow
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Ruins of Todos Santos - Image 1

Todos Santos Ruins

Best Time

Daytime observation

Best light for viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Witness a unique fusion of Cañari, Inca, and Spanish colonial architecture, a testament to layered history.

4.4
(56 reviews)

"Seeing remnants from multiple cultures in one small site is very impressive."

Vertical photo
TIP

Observe from Perimeter

Public access is restricted, so enjoy the views from the fence. :camerawithflash:

Appreciate the Mix

Notice the blend of Cañari, Inca, and Spanish colonial styles. :world_map:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cultural Fusion

Cultural Fusion

Witness the unique blend of Cañari, Inca, and Spanish colonial architecture, a testament to layered history.

Inca Stonework

Inca Stonework

Admire the distinct and well-preserved Inca walls, a significant historical feature.

Cañari Architecture

Cañari Architecture

Explore the remnants of Cañari structures, offering insight into an earlier civilization.

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Planning Your Visit

Access & Exploration

While the Todos Santos Ruins offer a glimpse into history, direct public access is currently limited. Visitors can observe the impressive Cañari, Inca, and Spanish colonial remnants from the perimeter fence. Plan for observation rather than exploration.

Historical Context

These ruins represent a fascinating blend of cultures, showcasing the symbiotic relationship between ancient La Ciudadela architecture, Inca stonework, and Spanish colonial influences. Understanding this context enhances the visit.

Best Times

When
Daytime observation
Why
Best light for viewing
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#feriado #quehacercuenca #cuenca #cuenca_ecuador #zielo #zielocuenca #rainbowpark #itinerariodeviaje #ingapirca #ruinas #paccari #paccaricuenca
@lifeofnena
22.4K likes • 358.3K views

Observe from Perimeter

Public access is restricted, so enjoy the views from the fence. :camerawithflash:

Appreciate the Mix

Notice the blend of Cañari, Inca, and Spanish colonial styles. :world_map:

Cómo llegar a Punta Lobos 🌊 Ubicada entre Todos Santos y Pescadero, esta ruta te lleva a uno de los mejores miradores de la zona. Sigue el camino hasta las ruinas y sube el cerro para disfrutar vistas espectaculares. Perfecto para hacer hiking y ver el atardecer. #PuntaLobos #BajaCaliforniaSur #TodosSantos #méxico🇲🇽
@amicabomx
14.8K likes • 233.2K views
Ruins near the old port of todos santos. • • • #sketch #watercolor #baja #travel #vanlife #painting #pleinair #ruin #sketching #painting #process
ourwanderingodyssey
25 likes • 344 views

Quiet Spot

A peaceful location to reflect on history. :pray:

Escaping to beach ruins in Todos Santos to drink Margaritas and celebrate aging gracefully 🍹 @hoggatron . . . #anotheryearyounger #todossantos #mexico #beachbirthdays #guaycurahotel #elfarobeachclub #thegoodlife #love #felizcumpleaños
lafarrell
69 likes • 1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Observe from Perimeter

Public access is restricted, so enjoy the views from the fence. :camerawithflash:

Appreciate the Mix

Notice the blend of Cañari, Inca, and Spanish colonial styles. :world_map:

Quiet Spot

A peaceful location to reflect on history. :pray:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(56 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Todos Santos Ruins impressive for their historical significance and the unique blend of Cañari, Inca, and Spanish colonial architecture. While direct access is limited, the ability to observe the layered history from the perimeter is considered worthwhile. Some wish for more on-site information and the ability to explore freely.

"Seeing remnants from multiple cultures in one small site is very impressive. It would be nice to have a little more instruction on site, to understand exactly what you’re seeing. But I definitely think this worth visiting!"

Becca Burgos

"We would rate these ruins higher if it were actually possible to enter them and walk around. Interesting combo of Cañari to Spanish colonial ruins. Love the Incan walls. Love the Cañaris wall. Decent view from street but would be better if we could walk through the locked gate."

Angela Drake (Not Your Average American)

"Would be better if you could walk in. Can't read the plaques"

Scott Mansfield

What People Like

Impressive cultural fusion
Visible Inca walls
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Limited public access
Lack of detailed info

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Todos Santos Ruins are located within the city, making them relatively accessible. While specific public transport routes aren't detailed in social media, general city navigation should lead you to the vicinity. It's recommended to use a local map or GPS for precise directions to the observation points. TikTok

Information regarding dedicated parking for the Todos Santos Ruins is scarce. Visitors often find street parking in the surrounding areas, but availability can vary. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Currently, direct public access into the Todos Santos Ruins is not permitted. Visitors can view the historical structures from the perimeter fence. Reddit+1

As access is restricted to viewing from the outside, there are no official opening or closing hours. You can observe the ruins during daylight hours. Reddit

Since direct entry is not allowed, there is no entrance fee to visit the Todos Santos Ruins. You can observe them freely from the surrounding areas. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The ruins showcase an impressive combination of Cañari, Inca, and Spanish colonial architectural styles. You can observe Inca walls, Cañari remnants, and Spanish colonial structures from the perimeter. Reddit+1

While there are some plaques, visitors have noted that they can be difficult to read or insufficient for a full understanding of the site's history. Reddit

The best way to experience the ruins is by observing the layered architecture from the fence and appreciating the historical fusion. Reddit+1

Many visitors find the ruins worth visiting for their historical significance and the unique cultural blend visible from the outside. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The best photo opportunities are from the perimeter fence, allowing you to capture the juxtaposition of different architectural eras. Look for angles that highlight the Inca stonework against the sky. TikTokInstagram

Drone usage regulations can vary by location. It's advisable to check local ordinances before flying a drone near historical sites like the Todos Santos Ruins. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

History Enthusiasts

For history buffs, the Todos Santos Ruins offer a unique opportunity to witness the convergence of multiple civilizations. The visible Inca walls and Cañari remnants, alongside Spanish colonial architecture, provide a rich visual narrative of the region's past. While direct exploration is limited, the observational experience is still highly rewarding. Reddit+1

Consider researching the historical context of the Cañari and Inca peoples prior to your visit to deepen your understanding and appreciation of the site's significance. This will enhance your ability to interpret the visible remnants. Reddit

Photographers

Photographers will find the Todos Santos Ruins offer interesting compositional opportunities, particularly in capturing the contrast between different architectural styles. The Inca stonework against the sky or juxtaposed with later structures can make for striking images. TikTokInstagram

Focus on capturing the textures and patterns of the ancient stones. The perimeter fence provides a stable vantage point for framing your shots, allowing you to highlight the historical layers of the site. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Tapestry of Cultures

The Todos Santos Ruins are a remarkable testament to the region's layered history, presenting a unique fusion of architectural styles. Visitors can observe the distinct remnants of the Cañari civilization, the sophisticated Inca stonework, and the influence of Spanish colonial architecture. This juxtaposition offers a tangible connection to the different cultures that have shaped the area over centuries. Reddit+1

While direct access to walk among the ruins is currently restricted, the view from the perimeter fence still provides a compelling historical narrative. The site highlights the symbiotic relationship that emerged when these distinct architectural traditions coexisted. It's a place where you can truly see history unfolding through stone. Reddit

For those interested in archaeology and history, the Todos Santos Ruins offer a valuable, albeit observational, experience. The ability to see these different eras side-by-side makes it a significant site for understanding the region's past. Reddit

Navigating Access and Observation

A common point of discussion among visitors to the Todos Santos Ruins is the current limitation on public access. Many reviews mention that it's not possible to enter the site and walk around, with access often blocked by locked gates. Reddit+1

Despite this restriction, travelers emphasize that the ruins are still worth visiting. The primary way to experience the site is by observing the impressive structures from the perimeter fence. This allows for a good view of the historical layers, including the distinct Inca and Cañari walls. Reddit+1

While some visitors express a desire for more detailed information on-site, the visual evidence of the cultural blend is often considered sufficient to appreciate the historical significance of Todos Santos Ruins. Reddit+1

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