We went to Chordeleg, a small town
about an hour outside of Cuenca. Chordeleg is best known for it's jewelry. Silver and gold are mined nearby and artists design and make jewelry there. The town square is surrounded by jewelry stores.The scenery in this part of the country is so beautiful. It is a little lower than Cuenca, so the climate is just a bit milder.
North of Chordeleg, just outside of Gualaceo, is an orchid farm. (Ecuagenera Orquideas del Ecuador) This was our first time to visit. This place exceeded our expectations. We had a personal guided tour of the whole process used to raise these beautiful orchids. I had a wonderful time photographing the flowers I am going to share with you today.Click here to see the orchid farm website
This tiny orchid has a monkey face inside when opened.
At the end of the tour, the guide took us to see their beautiful Macaws.
This makes a great day trip from Cuenca. Take the bus to Chordeleg (75 cents), shop for jewelry. Take a bus back to Gualaceo (25 cents). From Gualaceo take a taxi 2km. north to Ecuagenera Orquideas del Ecuador orchid farm.After touring the orchid farm, you can catch the bus back to Cuenca right in front of the farm.
Love,
Nancy and Chuck
