Cajas Unveiled: A Half-Day Escape from Cuenca
Description
Explore one of the most spectacular parks in Ecuador on our half-day tour from Cuenca. Hike through the park's grasslands and its landscape surrounded by lakes, paramo vegetation, llamas, ancient Polylepis trees. A great option hikers, nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Tour Options
Itinerary
We start our tour with Hotel or Airbnb pick-ups in Cuenca. Then we drive for about 45 minutes to Toreadora refuge. On the way we stop for a grab and go coffee and snack at Dos Chorreras.
Our tour takes you to Toreadora Refuge in the Cajas National Park. One of the most beautiful areas in Ecuador. There we will have the chance to do a hike through the grasslands to explore the scenery, lakes and very magical Polylepis forest. Our tour guide will show you couple options that you can choose from based on your interest and fitness.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
We pick you up at central located hotels starting at 8 am. However, you can meet us at the Cuenca Bestours Office at 8:30 am as well.
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Reviews(71)
Very different climate . Beautiful trees and fauna. Our guide Wilson is very knowledgeable about the different species of plants and birds. He is also well versed in the history of the park .
Xavi was an excellent guide who picked us up and dropped us off at our location. He was extremely knowledgeable about the history, plant life and geography of the area. I would highly recommend this tour and guide if you want to experience a taste of the National Park and a short hike to appreciate its beauty!
We’re delighted to hear that you had such a great experience with Xavi. His passion for the history, flora, and geography of the area truly makes each tour special, and we’re glad that came through during your visit. We truly appreciate your recommendation! Team Cuenca Bestours
Adrián took my husband and I to Cajas National Park and we had a great time. He knew a lot about the park and had many things to share. He was very patient with me and assisted me over some rocks and mud more than once. I would definitely recommend this company and especially Adrian if you wish to go anywhere. Thanks again Adrian! Diana and Greg
Thank you so much for your kind review! We’re thrilled to hear that you had a wonderful experience visiting Cajas National Park and that Adrián made your day so enjoyable. It’s great to know that his knowledge, patience, and attentive support helped you feel comfortable throughout the hike—especially on the more challenging sections. We sincerely appreciate your recommendation! Team Cuenca Bestours
What a gorgeous place, and only 45 minutes from Cuenca. Well worth the time to visit. We were blessed with a beautiful day. Our hike took us to six lagoons, up through the forest, and to breathtaking vistas.
Thank you so much for your lovely review! We couldn’t agree more—Cajas truly feels like a hidden paradise just 45 minutes from Cuenca. How wonderful that you were blessed with such a beautiful day to explore! Hiking to six lagoons, walking through the forest, and taking in those breathtaking vistas makes for a truly unforgettable experience. 🌿 Team Cuenca Bestours
I booked this as a private tour because I wanted to be able to go at my pace and take lots of photos. My guide Moises was fantastic - so knowledgeable and friendly. The park is spectacular with so many different flowers. 100% recommend
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear that your private tour allowed you to explore at your own pace and truly enjoy the beauty of the park. Moisés will be very happy to know his knowledge and friendly approach made your experience even more special. Team Cuenca Bestours
Our tour in Cajas, was absolutely magical! The landscapes were breathtaking, and every moment felt like stepping into a painting. Moises was an incredible guide — knowledgeable, kind, and passionate about the park. He shared so much about the local history, nature, and culture, making the whole experience unforgettable. Highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Cuenca!
Thank you so much for your beautiful review! We’re thrilled to hear that your experience in Cajas felt truly magical. The park’s landscapes are breathtaking, and it’s wonderful that you were able to enjoy them with Moises, whose knowledge and passion always bring each moment to life. We’re delighted that his guidance and insights made your visit unforgettable. Thank you for the high recommendation🌄✨
I had the opportunity to take a private tour to Cajas National Park with Don Eddy as a guide, and the experience was just amazing. Don Eddy shared many stories and knowledge about the park, flora, fauna and local history, which made the tour very enriching. In addition, the place itself is stunning, with landscapes that really leave you speechless. I definitely recommend this tour for anyone who wants to know Cajas in a deep and memorable way.
¡Muchísimas gracias por compartir su experiencia! Nos alegra saber que su recorrido por el Parque Nacional Cajas con don Eddy fue tan enriquecedor y memorable. Su pasión y conocimiento sobre la naturaleza y la historia local hacen que cada visita sea especial, y será muy feliz de recibir sus elogios. Cuenca Bestours Team
We had an amazing experience at Cajas National Park with our guide, Juan. He was incredibly knowledgeable about the park, its history, and the surrounding ecosystem. His energy made the tour engaging and enjoyable, and he was very attentive to everyone in our group. Juan also provided excellent English translations for part of our family, which made the experience even more accessible and meaningful. We highly recommend this tour and Juan as a guide!
Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience at Cajas National Park. We’re delighted to hear that Juan’s knowledge, energy, and attentiveness made your tour both engaging and memorable. It’s great to know his translations added even more value for your family. Your kind recommendation means a lot, and we look forward to welcoming you again soon! Cuenca Bestours Team
Was very interesting and fun. Pedro was very informative and knowledgable and always willing to help.
Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We’re delighted to hear that you found the tour both interesting and fun. Pedro will be thrilled to know that his knowledge and helpfulness made a difference. We truly appreciate your comments. Team Cuenca Bestours
The landscape is like nothing I’ve ever seen before. We were told to go in the morning, however we could only book an afternoon due to our schedule. We were glad we did! No one was there. Though it was cold and cloudy, we enjoyed the 1.5 hour hike around one of the lakes. Adrian our guide was very knowledgeable about the park. Be prepared. It’s 13,000 ft above sea level and the weather is very different than Cuenca.
Thank you for sharing your experience! We’re so glad you enjoyed the unique beauty of the landscape and had the chance to explore the park with Adrián’s knowledgeable guidance. It sounds like the quieter afternoon made your hike even more special. We also appreciate your helpful tips for future travelers about altitude and weather. Team Cuenca Bestours
