Weaving Stories in the Andes: Casa Museo de la Makana

Nestled in the Andean highlands near Cuenca lies a cultural treasure that invites visitors to go beyond sightseeing and truly connect with Ecuador’s ancestral heritage: the Casa Museo de la Makana.

This unique space is more than a museum — it’s a living workshop where artisans preserve the ancient ikat technique used to create the makana, a traditional handwoven shawl worn by Cuencanas during weddings and cultural celebrations. This craft, passed down for generations, is known for its intricate patterns, vibrant natural dyes, and 100% manual process.

A Journey Through Every Thread

The museum offers a hands-on experiential tour where travellers become part of the process. From warping the threads (urdimbre), knotting the design (anudado), and natural dyeing (tinturado), to learning the art of weaving on a backstrap loom, guests immerse themselves in every step of the craft. The colours? All-natural: cochineal for reds, walnut for earthy tones, and indigo for rich blues.

To make the visit even more memorable, each guest takes home the very thread they dyed  a symbolic souvenir woven with their own hands. A traditional Andean drink adds a warm cultural touch to the experience.

Tour Options

Experiential Tour
• Duration: approx. 3 hours
• Extra prices per person
• Includes: full participation in the weaving process, guided instruction, use of natural dyes, and a local drink

Short Introductory Tour
• Duration: 15–30 minutes
• Extra prices per person
• Includes: guided explanation of the process and access to the showroom

The visit ends at a lovely showroom, where visitors can browse and purchase high-quality handmade products including scarves, jackets, bags, shoes and more  all made from the iconic makana textile.

Why Include This in Your Programmes?

For travellers interested in culture, craftsmanship, and meaningful experiences, this is a perfect addition to any itinerary in the Cuenca region. It’s authentic, and deeply rooted in Ecuadorian identity  the kind of encounter guests remember long after the trip ends.

Let Andean Travel Company take you on an unforgettable journey through Ecuador’s most exciting traditions. Contact us today!