Azuay Updates Qhapaq Ñan Information and Advances Local Tourism Plans for Ancient Road Network

The Azuay Prefecture is actively engaged in updating archaeological, environmental, and cultural information concerning the Qhapaq Ñan, the extensive road network utilized by ancient Andean societies. This system, recognized on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2014, traverses six South American countries, including Ecuador.

An international meeting, "Qhapaq Ñan y Cruz del Sur: Encuentro Internacional para la Conservación, Gobernanza y Desarrollo de los Territorios Andinos," was held in Cuenca from October 14 to 16, 2026. This event brought together representatives from the six participating countries to exchange experiences and establish management agreements for the conservation and development of these Andean territories. Jennifer Guzmán Palacios, director of Cultures, Heritage and Recreation for the Azuay Prefecture, noted that the meeting concluded with a visit to Paredones de Molleturo and the presentation of a manifesto for ongoing collaborative work.

The current phase of the Qhapaq Ñan study, which focuses on archaeological, biological, geological, tourist, and anthropological components, is financed by 75,000 dollars in non-reimbursable technical cooperation. This initial phase concentrates on two of the four identified axes in Azuay: the one connecting Tomebamba with Puerto de Bola towards the coast, and the one heading south towards Peru. The Azuay Prefecture will contribute an additional 60,000 dollars to continue studies on the remaining two axes: one connecting with Ingapirca in Cañar, and another extending towards the Amazon, up to Chobshi. Results from the first phase are anticipated by December 2026, with the second stage projected for a six-month execution period.

In parallel, local communities are developing tourism initiatives. Ruth Elena Chuñir, a representative from San Pedro de Yumate in Molleturo, has been collaborating with her community and the University of Azuay for two years on two proposals: a tourist information center with local guides and the Guamaní Archaeological Route of Paredones. This route plans to offer guided visits to the archaeological site, agroecological farms, and local businesses, such as artisanal wine and coffee producers. Chuñir highlighted that while visitors currently arrive via Cuenca tour operators, local residents do not sufficiently participate in these activities. The San Pedro de Yumate proposal includes facilities like bathrooms, a restaurant, and parking, alongside measures to regulate tourist flow and protect the archaeological site. The Azuay Prefecture also plans to publish digital content related to the Qhapaq Ñan project on its website by November, including resources for children and adults.

Sources: elmercurio.com.ec.

Image: AI-generated illustration.