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Housesitting in the Andes: Great 2 Months in Ecuador
From time to time one of our housesitters will share a fascinating experience. In this piece on housesitting in the Andes, Tiera St Claire tells us about what she loved and what surprised her about her experience in Cuenca in Ecuador. Read on to learn more.
A Sitters Experience Housesitting in the Andes
Photo credit – Tiera St Claire
Housesitting around the world brings so much richness — in experience, in connection, in cultural awareness. When I flew from New York via Quito to Cuenca in Ecuador, I had no idea how deeply that city would get under my skin.
Tucked high in the Andes Mountains, Cuenca is often described as Ecuador’s most beautiful city — and it doesn’t take long to see why. Cobblestone streets, colonial churches, blue-domed cathedral spires, flower-filled balconies: it’s the kind of place where travellers arrive for a few days and end up staying for weeks, and so discovering slow travel. I stayed housesitting in the Andes for two months, and it still wasn’t enough.
I was there to visit friends — American retirees who had discovered, as many do, that Cuenca offered the lifestyle they’d dreamed of at a cost of living that simply wasn’t possible back home. But their pets quickly became a big part of my experience too. Feeding and petting the cats, walking the dogs — and especially helping their rescue dog settle into her new home — gave my days a wonderful rhythm and purpose.
“Cuenca isn’t flashy — and that’s exactly its appeal. It’s a place for slow mornings, long walks, and quiet discovery.”
Photo credit – Tiera St Claire
Arriving at altitude
The altitude catches you off guard, even if you’ve been to high places before. I found myself more winded than usual on the uphill walk to my friends’ house — a reminder that Cuenca sits at around 2,500 metres above sea level. Take it gently at first, drink plenty of water, and give your body a day or two to adjust.
What struck me early on was the remarkable strength of the local women. I regularly watched them navigating those same steep hills while carrying a child on their back and two full five-gallon buckets in their hands, seemingly without effort. It was humbling and inspiring in equal measure.
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Housesitting in the Andes and Life in the city
Walking through Cuenca’s UNESCO-listed historic centre feels almost European — arched doorways, grand plazas, elegant architecture shaped by Spanish and French influence. But the soul of the place is entirely its own. The charm isn’t in ticking off sights; it’s in simply wandering.
Photo credit – Tiera St Claire
One of my more unexpected highlights: I was cast as the lead in a staged reading of Neil Simon’s Brighton Beach Memoirs, performed by the local expat community. A full dance scene. No lines to memorise. Pure joy.
Culture & history
There is far more to see than I had expected and during my two months housesitting in the Andes I managed to visit the Museo Pumapungo, Inca and Cañari ruins, and Ingapirca — Ecuador’s largest Inca site. All were fascinating and deserve an article each.
Nature nearby
I spent time in Cajas National Park to enjoy the high-altitude lakes. Piedra de Agua hot springs were just a bus ride away and quite a revelation.
Photo credit – Tiera St Claire
Everyday magic
During my daily walks I discovered river walks, street-corner corn nuts, local healers, and café people-watching. Loved llapingachos (local fried potato pancakes) and hornado (whole roast pig).
The healers deserve a mention of their own. In the outdoor healing areas, practitioners chant, cleanse your energy field with leaves, and blow herbal liquids from their mouths — an experience that is wholly unique and surprisingly moving. During one session, my Apple Watch rang. A child nearby stared at me, wide-eyed with absolute wonder. That moment still makes me smile.
Why Cuenca works so well for slow travellers
Mild, spring-like weather all year round made my experience of housesitting in the Andes very comfortable. Cuenca has clean, walkable streets. It feels safe, with friendly locals and a strong community of long-term expats and retirees. A cost of living that makes an extended stay genuinely accessible. Cuenca has become a magnet for slow travellers, digital nomads, and anyone who wants to actually live somewhere rather than just visit it.
Housesitting in the Andes is one of the best ways to experience it. Staying in a real home — with animals to care for, a neighbourhood to explore, a daily routine to settle into — gives you something no hotel can: the feeling that you briefly belong somewhere.
A practical note: while some regions of Ecuador face security concerns, Cuenca remains one of the country’s safer and more stable destinations. As with any travel, stay aware of your surroundings, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and take sensible precautions.
“A city you don’t just visit — but briefly belong to.”
If Cuenca has piqued your curiosity, you’re not alone. A growing number of HouseSit Match members are discovering new locations around the world — and coming back for more. See what’s available →
BIO
👩💼 About the Author Tiera St Claire: Tiera has spent 20 years as a housesitter, often in London one of her favourite cities. She has been caring for pets and properties across 30+ countries. Her journey proves that midlife can be the beginning of your greatest adventure. Follow Tiera’s ongoing housesitter journey, and enjoy her best of slow travel top tips at House Sit Match.
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FAQs: Housesitting in the Andes
Is Cuenca, Ecuador safe for travellers?
Cuenca is widely regarded as one of Ecuador’s safest and most stable cities for visitors and long-term stays. As with any destination, normal travel precautions apply — stay aware of your surroundings and avoid poorly lit areas at night.
How long can you housesit in Ecuador?
Many housesits in Ecuador last anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Tiera’s stay of two months is quite typical for slow travellers who want to genuinely experience a place rather than just pass through.
What is the cost of living like in Cuenca?
Cuenca is significantly more affordable than most US or European cities. It’s one of the reasons so many retirees and remote workers have relocated there — a comfortable lifestyle is very achievable on a modest budget.
Do I need to speak Spanish to housesit in Ecuador?
Basic Spanish is helpful and locals always appreciate the effort, but Cuenca has a well-established expat community and many English speakers, making it accessible even for those just starting to learn the language.
How do I find a housesit in Ecuador or South America?
HouseSit Match connects trusted homeowners with experienced sitters across the globe, including South America. You can browse available sits and create a free profile at HouseSitMatch.com.
FURTHER READING
At Housesit Match we like to share useful blogs and practical advice about housesitters, housesitting and pet sitting. We hope you find this small selection of our blogs such as this one on housesitting in the Andes interesting and useful.
Slow Travel in Sedona: Housesitting and Affordable Travel
