El Cajas National Park

Overview

El Cajas National Park is a protected area in the Andes of Ecuador known for its stunning lakes, forests, and wildlife. It offers a variety of hiking trails and scenic views.

It is a key biodiversity area and a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers.

National Park Hiking Wildlife

Location

Address

Azuay

Neighborhood: El Cajas

Coordinates

-2.862800, -79.010600

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$5

Children

$3

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds and better wildlife sightings

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4-5 hours

Full Experience

full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild

• wildflowers
• clear lakes

summer

dry and cool

• clear skies
• stunning views

autumn

mild

• colorful foliage
• clear lakes

winter

wet and cooler

• misty landscapes
• lush greenery

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Bring warm layers
Carry sufficient water
Check weather conditions

What to Bring

essential

hiking boots water snacks

seasonal

warm clothing umbrella

not allowed

drones pets

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate to high

• altitude sickness
• slippery trails

Medical facilities: limited medical facilities

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, cards

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $5

parking $3

food $10

guided tours $20

Dress Code

casual, comfortable hiking shoes, hiking boots, inappropriate clothing for hiking

Booking Tips

• 1 week
• official website
• 48 hours
• available for guided tours

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

El Cajas National Park Guide

Size: 30 MB

Features: Trail maps, Wildlife guides, Weather updates

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Mariscal Lamar International Airport

Distance: 25 km

Travel Time: 30 minutes

taxi

$15 30 min

public_transport

$3 45 min

From City Center

Distance: 20 km

bus

$1.50 40 min

taxi

$20 30 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Unique biodiversity and serene environment

Historical Significance: Protected area since 1996

Insider Tips

Visit the Toreadora Lake for the best views
Local guides offer unique insights

Local Recommendations

• Try local cuisine at nearby restaurants
• Ask for a local guide

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hola

thank_you Gracias

where_is ¿Dónde está?

how_much ¿Cuánto cuesta?

beautiful Hermoso

ticket Entrada

Guide Languages: Spanish, English

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Laguna Toreadora

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide angle

Result: Stunning lake views

#nature #hiking

Photography Rules

allowed areas all outdoor areas

prohibited areas restricted trails

flash photography allowed

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy prohibited without permit

tripod policy allowed

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Tres Cruces

Distance: 15km

Walking: N/A

Type: Scenic viewpoint

Cuenca Historic Center

Distance: 20km