A private full-day tour of Cajas National Park brings you to wind-swept paramo, glacial lagoons and ancient polylepis forest. Expect high-altitude views, variable weather, and accessible hikes that highlight the park’s geology and wildlife.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of the minivan into a thin, cold air that feels sharp on the skin. Above, wind pushes low clouds across a scatter of highland lagoons — glass mirrors cut into the Andean moor. This private full-day tour through Cajas National Park walks you across a landscape shaped by ice and altitude: flat, grassy paramo, polylepis woodlands, and a chain of clear glacial lakes.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7–8 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness recommended — able to walk for 2–4 hours on uneven, high-altitude terrain and handle short climbs.
Wildlife
History
Cajas was protected to safeguard its high-Andean paramo and the water sources that supply Cuenca; pastoral use and archaeological sites reflect long-standing human use of the highlands.
Conservation
The park’s peatlands store water and carbon; visitors are encouraged to stay on trails, avoid disturbing vegetation, and pack out waste to protect fragile soils and aquatic habitats.
Reserve your spot on the Private Cajas National Park Full Day Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimate before you go
Spend a night or two in Cuenca (2,500 m) to reduce altitude strain before ascending to ~3,900 m.
Bring waterproof footwear
Trails include peat bogs and wet grass; waterproof hiking boots or provided rubber boots keep feet dry.
Layer and protect from sun
Windproof outer layers, sunhat and sunscreen are essential—UV is strong at high elevation.
Carry snacks and water
Even with lunch included, bring extra water and high-energy snacks for hikes and altitude recovery.
Waterproof hiking boots
Keeps feet dry when crossing boggy trails and wet grass.
Windproof/warm layers
Temperatures can swing 10–18°C; insulating layers and a windbreaker are critical.
Sun protection (sunglasses, sunscreen, hat)
High UV at altitude makes sun protection mandatory even on overcast days.
Reusable water bottle and snacks
Hydration and quick calories help prevent altitude symptoms during hikes.