Cajas National Park
The countless lakes, alpine hillsides and curious herds of alpacas make the Cajas National Park an impressive wilderness destination.
Often compared to the Scottish moorlands, the landscape at the Cajas National Park is seemingly stark and forbidding. Jagged rock faces and small blue lakes dot the high grasslands, or páramo, that characterize the park. Despite the mostly barren landscape, a few interesting bits of flora and fauna can be observed. A species of tree known as the quinua tree grows at a higher elevation than any other tree in the world. Patches of these stunted trees grow thick within the folds of the hillsides.
The weather here can change quickly—once the warm sun is gone, this can feel like one of the coldest places in Ecuador. The roughly 180 square mile (290 sq km) park sits at 13,120 feet (4,000 m). The high elevation often brings freezing winds that continually scour the area. Thick, disorientating fog can also blanket the park.
A ranger station on the western side of the park marks the trailhead for a small network of paths that wind over hills and around lakes. Be sure to bring warm layers, and register your name at the ranger station before heading out. Becoming disorientated and lost in this unforgiving landscape can have serious consequences.
Experiences in Cajas National Park
Explore hand-picked Cajas National Park tours and experiences led by local insiders, from wildlife encounters to cultural deep-dives.
Tour
Where to stay in Cajas National Park
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Cajas National Park accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
Hotel Caravallo
Hotel Carvallo is a historic home, built in the late 19th century and recently transformed into a boutique hotel. Its will serve as a charming home base for your exploration of historic Cuenca.
Hotel Boutique Los Balcones
Hotel Boutique Los Balcones is set within a restored colonial building in the heart of Cuenca. The hotel is charming and has good food and a friendly staff.
Hotel Cuenca
Hotel Cuenca is a large hotel with spacious rooms. Built in the 1940s, this hotel has has a classic look that embodies the historic appeal of downtown Cuenca.
Hotel Presidente
Many of the 70 rooms at Hotel Presidente look out over Cuenca’s renowned historical district. This hotel has some of the best views of the city.
Cajas National Park itineraries
Explore hand-picked Cajas National Park itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.
15 days · Quito, Tena, Riobamba, Cuenca +4
Couple
Ecuador is a wonderful country where we were able to travel by road for over 1200 KM during our two weeks trip and see the different parts of the country.
Ecuador
19 days · Quito, San Cristobal, Guayaquil, Cuenca +2
Couple
We spent almost 20 days exploring all parts of the country — from the mainland, to the coast, to the Amazon. I can say we did it all!
Ecuador
