Spend a day above Cuenca hiking the Toreadora sector of Cajas National Park, then unwind in warm thermal pools at Baños parish. This full-day trip combines high-Andean scenery, short but rugged trails, and relaxing hot springs.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A thin cold wind pushes across a shallow lake as your small group steps off the minivan into the Toreadora sector of Cajas National Park. Tussock grasses bend, peat hummocks squelch under boot soles and silver-backed clouds move fast along the high basin—this is Andean páramo on the move. The three-hour walk threads between glacial lakes, low polylepis stands and peat bogs, punctuated by wide vistas of serrated ridgelines and mirror-still lagunas.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8 hours total (≈3 hours hiking)
Fitness Level
Suited to travelers with moderate fitness who can handle high-elevation walking and uneven, sometimes boggy terrain.
Wildlife
History
The high basins of Cajas were traversed by indigenous groups and later protected as a national park in 1996 to conserve water sources and unique páramo ecosystems.
Conservation
Cajas’ peatlands store water and carbon; stick to trails to avoid damaging fragile vegetation and follow local rules at thermal facilities to limit pollution.
Reserve your spot on the Cajas NP Hiking & Thermal Baths from Cuenca today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize before you go
Spend a night or two in Cuenca (2,500–2,800 m) before the hike; Cajas sits much higher and the thin air makes effort feel harder.
Expect bog and uneven ground
Waterproof hiking boots with good tread are useful—trail sections are often boggy and can hide ankle-twisting hummocks.
Sun at high altitude
Bring high-SPF sunscreen and a brimmed hat—UV exposure at 3,000+ m is intense even on cool days.
Thermal-bath etiquette
Bring swimwear, flip-flops and a towel; showers and spa services may carry extra fees and modest dress codes apply in communal areas.
Waterproof hiking boots
Keeps feet dry and stable on muddy, uneven páramo trails.
Insulating midlayer (fleece/down)
Lightweight warmth for cold winds at high elevation.
Waterproof shell or rain jacket
Protects against sudden rain and wind common in the high Andes.
Swimwear and towel
Needed for the thermal pools and sauna at Baños parish after the hike.