Mercado 10 de Agosto Cuenca
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Mercado 10 de Agosto Cuenca

4.3
·10k reviews·Cuenca, Ecuador

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Freshest goods, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Mercado 10 de Agosto Cuenca

Mercado 10 de Agosto Cuenca

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Freshest goods, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.3
(10k reviews)

"WOW! Did I say WOW? Because it's an overwhelming, incredibly delicious, fresh market that will stun your every sense."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Authentic Hornado

Authentic Hornado

Food stalls upstairs

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

Traditional 'Limpia'

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

Vibrant Produce Stalls

Ground floor

Marvel at the colorful displays of exotic fruits, fresh vegetables, and local ingredients. A feast for the eyes!

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Local Vibe

Dive into the heart of Cuenca at Mercado 10 de Agosto. It's a bustling hub for fresh produce, local delicacies, and authentic experiences. Come hungry and ready to explore!

Best Time to Visit

Mornings are ideal for the freshest produce and a less crowded atmosphere. Weekends can be lively but busier. Consider visiting during weekdays for a more relaxed exploration.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Freshest goods, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Afternoons
Why
Quieter, good for meals
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Se han curado el espanto? #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp #jenny❤️🖤 #cuenca #10deagosto #mercado #barrio #ecuador #sustos #nervios #humor #comedia #espanto
@15dedos
38.8K likes • 461K views

🎯 Taste the Hornado!

Don't leave without trying the famous hornado, often available from $3-$4. TikTok+1

💰 Cash is King

While some vendors accept cards or apps, cash is preferred for smaller purchases. Instagram

Reatratndonen el Mercado 10 de Agosto. #cuencaenbici #ecuador #streetphotography #cuenca #humans #retratos #mercado
@retratosdemitierra.ec
26.2K likes • 580.6K views
Mercado 10 de Agosto: 😉 El Alma de Cuenca en Cada Rincón
raliobla
1 likes • 223 views

🚶‍♀️ Explore Upstairs

The food stalls upstairs offer a wide variety of delicious local dishes. Reddit

🌿 Experience a 'Limpia'

Consider a traditional energetic cleansing for a unique cultural experience. TikTokInstagram

Limpia energética en el Mercado 10 de agosto en #Cuenca. ¿Realidad o cuento? #Ecuador #tradicion #Cuenca #turismo
jeffersonmerchant
6.3K likes • 193.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Taste the Hornado!

Don't leave without trying the famous hornado, often available from $3-$4. TikTok+1

💰 Cash is King

While some vendors accept cards or apps, cash is preferred for smaller purchases. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore Upstairs

The food stalls upstairs offer a wide variety of delicious local dishes. Reddit

🌿 Experience a 'Limpia'

Consider a traditional energetic cleansing for a unique cultural experience. TikTokInstagram

📸 Capture the Colors

The market is a photographer's dream with vibrant scenes and friendly faces. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.3
(10k reviews)

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

Incredibly fresh produce
Delicious and affordable food
Vibrant local atmosphere

What People Dislike

Limited food tastings

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. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

Yes, the market sometimes hosts events, especially during local festivals like Carnival. Keep an eye out for announcements regarding music, celebrations, and special offerings. TikTokInstagram

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. TikTokReddit+1

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. TikTokInstagram+1

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. TikTok

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. TikTok+1

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. TikTok+1

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. TikTok+1

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. TikTok

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. TikTok+1

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. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mercado 10 de Agosto offers a vibrant and educational experience for families. Kids will be fascinated by the colorful array of fruits and vegetables on the ground floor. Upstairs, the food stalls provide a chance to try new and exciting flavors in a casual setting. It's a great opportunity to introduce children to local Ecuadorian cuisine in a fun, bustling environment. Consider trying some fresh fruit juices or simple empanadas that are often kid-friendly. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

This market is a dream for budget-conscious travelers. You can enjoy delicious and filling meals, like the famous hornado, for as little as $3-$4. The fresh produce is also very affordable, making it a great place to grab snacks or ingredients for a picnic. The free entry and the abundance of low-cost food options make Mercado 10 de Agosto a top destination for saving money while experiencing local culture. TikTok+1

📸 Photographers & Content Creators

With its vibrant colors, diverse subjects, and lively atmosphere, Mercado 10 de Agosto is a photographer's paradise. Capture the textures of exotic fruits, the steam rising from freshly cooked meals, and the genuine interactions between vendors and shoppers. The 'limpia' ritual also offers unique and compelling visual opportunities. Remember to be respectful when photographing people. TikTok+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Culinary Adventure

Mercado 10 de Agosto is a paradise for food lovers, offering an authentic taste of Ecuadorian cuisine. The ground floor is a vibrant tapestry of fresh produce, from exotic fruits like 'uchuva' and 'maracuyá' to staple vegetables and local cheeses. Butcher shops display an array of meats, and seafood vendors offer the day's catch. Upstairs, the market truly comes alive with numerous food stalls serving up Cuenca's most beloved dishes. TikTokReddit

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. TikTokInstagram+1

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. Instagram

Cultural Traditions and Experiences

Mercado 10 de Agosto is more than just a place to buy food; it's a cultural hub where ancient traditions are still practiced. One of the most unique experiences offered is the 'limpia', or energetic cleansing. Visitors can undergo a ritual involving herbs, smoke, and sometimes even eggs, believed to remove negative energy and promote well-being. This practice is deeply rooted in indigenous culture and offers a fascinating glimpse into local beliefs. TikTokInstagram+1

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. TikTok+1

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. TikTokInstagram

Navigating the Market

Mercado 10 de Agosto is a sensory experience, and navigating its bustling environment is part of the adventure. The ground floor is dedicated to fresh produce, meats, and dairy, with vendors calling out their offerings. It’s a great place to stock up on local ingredients or simply admire the abundance. Reddit

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. TikTokReddit

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. Instagram

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