Private Cajas National Park Full Day Tour

Cuenca , Ecuador

Private Cajas National Park Full Day Tour

Active

(1 reviews)

7h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The Cajas National Park is a well known national park located in the highlands of Ecuador. The main highlight of a trip to El Cajas is to simply enjoy the breathtaking scenery for miles around. It is home to a large variety of animals some of which are endemic or highly endangered. The National Cajas Park takes you to a beautiful lake and Andes forest at the lower elevations of the national park. Tourists can stop by the visitor center at the mountain pass at 3,979 m. From there, you can go on a hike through several hiking trails or you go camping along the way. Get to know Cajas National Park with this full day private tour.

Available options

Private Cajas National Park Full Day Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Local guide

National Park fees

Lunch

Private Tour

Detailed itinerary

We will pick you up at the start point or your accommodation address in Guayaquil and we will take you to the Cajas National Park. If you are staying in Cuenca, you can also take this tour.

Stop 2

Once we arrive to the Cajas National Park. You will visit the low part of the park (height: 3100 m.s.n.m) named Llaviucu. Later you will take a walk at the flat sector of the park, it will take you 1 hour approximately (4.160 m.s.n.m. aprox.)

Then you will continue with the visit to the highest part of the park: Mirador Tres Cruces, at this places you will have the opportunity to take pictures and will receive an explanation from the guide. After the visit to "Tres Cruces" we will take you by car to the Toreadora Lagoon, where you will visit the Interpretation Center. Then we continue with the walk to the Forest Polylepis San Luis, the walk keep going until we get to Unidas Lagoon, Totoras Lagoon and Patoquinuas, after this walk we return to Toreadora (2h 30m at a high of 3.9000 m.s.n.m approx)

Return to the city and arrive at your hotel at 4:00pm approximately.

What's not included

Personal Expenses

Tips

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Dress code is confortable shoes and warm clothes

Recommendations for Tourists: Wear comfortable walking shoes to walk on the moor (walking shoes) if tourists need rubber boots or raincoats, we will provide upon request. In addition, warm clothing, the temperature in the PN Cajas is not stable, there may be a variation of 10 ° C to 18 ° C during the day, sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat. Windbreaker, clothing raingear (in case of rain), drinks: bottled water, juices. Take cash with you.

Meeting point

If you are staying in Cuenca, this will be your starting point.

Important notes

• Dress code is smart casual
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
• Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions
• At the moment you buy this tour you have to give us information about your state of health. Because the tour is private, if the tourist doesn’t feel good (because of the high) we complete the tour with another visit inside the zone. That way the tourist will have a private guide to realize the walk according to his rhythm and state of health.
• Of equal way if the tourist ask for longer walks you can choose the Trekking Parque Nacional Cajas Tour (6-8 hours)

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.

About Cuenca

Cuenca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a charming colonial city nestled in the Andes mountains. Known for its well-preserved historic center, vibrant cultural scene, and proximity to natural wonders, Cuenca offers a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure. The city's Spanish colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and friendly atmosphere make it a must-visit destination in Ecuador.

Top Attractions

Historic Center of Cuenca

The Historic Center of Cuenca is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring well-preserved colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and numerous churches and plazas. It's the heart of the city and a must-visit for its cultural and historical significance.

Historical/Architecture Half day to full day Free to explore, individual attractions may have entry fees

Pumapungo Museum and Archaeological Park

This museum and archaeological park showcase the history of Cuenca and the Cañari culture. It features pre-Incan ruins, a reconstructed house, and a variety of artifacts.

Historical/Museum 1-2 hours Moderate

El Cajas National Park

El Cajas National Park is a stunning natural reserve featuring high-altitude lakes, lagoons, and diverse wildlife. It's a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.

Nature/Adventure Full day Free entry, guided tours may have fees

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cuy Asado

Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish, typically served with potatoes and peas.

Main Course Not vegetarian or vegan, contains meat

Locro de Papa

A hearty potato soup made with cheese, avocado, and sometimes meat, often served for breakfast.

Soup Can be vegetarian, but often contains cheese and sometimes meat

Encebollado

A flavorful fish soup with yuca, pickled onions, and cilantro, often enjoyed as a hangover cure.

Soup Contains fish, not vegetarian or vegan

Popular Activities

Hiking in El Cajas National Park Mountain biking in the surrounding countryside Visiting local spas and hot springs Enjoying a coffee at a local café Exploring the historic center and its museums Attending local festivals and events Fishing in the nearby lakes and rivers Experiencing a traditional Andean ceremony or ritual

Best Time to Visit

June to September

The dry season offers pleasant weather with sunny days and cool nights. It's the best time for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions.

12°C to 22°C 54°F to 72°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Cuenca is generally a safe city, but like any destination, it's important to take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas and on public transportation. Be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables secure.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.
• Use reputable tour operators and taxis, and agree on the fare before starting your journey.
• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit or isolated areas.

Getting there

By air

Mariscal Lamar International Airport • 6 km from city center

By bus

Terminal Terrestre de Cuenca

Getting around

Public transport

Cuenca has an efficient and affordable bus system that covers the entire city. Buses are the primary mode of public transportation.

Taxis

Available • Apps: InDriver, Taxi App

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Center San Sebastián El Vado

Day trips

Ingapirca

50 km from Cuenca • Full day

Ingapirca is a significant Inca archaeological site featuring well-preserved ruins and a museum showcasing the history of the Inca civilization.

Cajas National Park

33 km from Cuenca • Full day

Cajas National Park offers stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife. It's a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Girón

25 km from Cuenca • Half day

Girón is a charming colonial town known for its well-preserved architecture, museums, and local crafts. It's a great place to experience the local culture and history.

Festivals

Fiesta de Cuenca • November 3-13 Carnaval de Cuenca • February/March (dates vary)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interactions with locals and gain a deeper understanding of the culture.
Visit the historic center early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the beauty of the city at a leisurely pace.
Take advantage of the city's vibrant arts and dining scene by exploring local galleries, museums, and restaurants.
Pack layers and comfortable shoes, as temperatures can vary significantly and the city's cobblestone streets can be challenging to navigate.
Stay informed about local customs and laws, and respect them to avoid offending locals or drawing unwanted attention.