Cajas National Park

Ecuador, South America

Cajas National Park, located just a short drive from Cuenca, is a breathtaking ecosystem renowned for its glacial lakes, diverse wildlife, and stunning paramo landscapes. With over 200 lakelets set against dramatic mountain backdrops, it's a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy an array of trails, ranging from simple walks to challenging treks, while spotting unique bird species and endemic flora. Its serene atmosphere and captivating vistas make it a must-visit destination in Ecuador.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Nature Reserve

Vibe

Active

Airport

Mariscal Lamar

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

7 Best Things to Do in Cajas National Park

1

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike to Toreadora Lagoon

Explore stunning scenery on this scenic hike.

No booking required
2

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Cajas National Park Visitor Center

Learn about local flora and fauna at the center.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Polylepis Forest

Wander through unique trees in this magical forest.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Birdwatching in Cajas

Spot diverse bird species in their natural habitat.

No booking required
5

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Go fishing in the lagoons

Catch trout in pristine mountain lagoons.

Booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Photography at the Lagunas de Cajas

Capture breathtaking landscapes and wildlife.

No booking required
7

Est. 24 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Camp under the stars

Experience the beauty of the night sky in nature.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Included in bill

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

3 (#44 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

US Dollar

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Encebollado

Fish stew with yuca and onions (National dish)

Ceviche

Citrus-marinated seafood dish

Llapingachos

V

Potato patties served with peanut sauce

Hornado

Roasted pork with crispy skin

Seco de Chivo

Goat stew with spices and beer

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)