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Cuenca, the capital of Azuay Province in southern Ecuador, is situated in the Andean highlands at approximately 2,560 meters (8,400 feet) above sea level, within a broad inter-Andean valley carved by the Tomebamba, Yanuncay, Tarqui, and Machángara rivers. This elevated basin location, surrounded by the Cajas Massif to the west and the Cordillera Oriental to the east, creates a natural topographic bowl that traps air pollutants, exacerbating local air quality issues. The city's urban character blends colonial architecture with modern expansion, spreading across the valley floor and climbing surrounding hillsides, creating a distinct urban–rural gradient where pollution sources intensify in densely populated central areas. Proximity to agricultural zones in the surrounding countryside contributes biomass burning emissions, while the city's position along major transportation routes amplifies vehicle exhaust and road dust. Although not part of a traditional industrial belt, artisanal gold mining in nearby regions like Portovelo-Zaruma introduces hazardous dust and mercury into the atmospheric mix. The humid subtropical climate, moderated by elevation, interacts with this geography to influence pollution dispersion, with limited wind corridors through mountain passes offering occasional relief but often insufficient to clear accumulated contaminants.

Cuenca's air quality follows a distinct seasonal rhythm shaped by its Andean climate, with pollution peaking from August through October during the dry season. These months experience reduced rainfall, allowing particulate matter from vehicle exhaust, road dust, and agricultural burning to accumulate without washout, compounded by temperature inversions that trap pollutants in the valley basin. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor activities during this period, especially in mornings when inversion layers are strongest. The wet season from November to April brings relief, as frequent rains scrub the air of particulates, though occasional biomass burning for land clearance can cause short-term spikes. May through July marks a transitional phase with moderate pollution levels, offering favourable conditions for outdoor pursuits as temperatures cool and winds occasionally pick up through mountain gaps. Throughout the year, domestic biomass cooking emissions persist as a background source, while mining-related contaminants drift intermittently on regional winds. Fog formation in cooler months, particularly June and July, can temporarily elevate particulate concentrations, though less severely than dry-season peaks. Visitors planning strenuous activities should target the wet season for cleaner air, while residents should monitor local advisories during peak pollution months.