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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

7 Best Things to Do in Cajas National Park

1. Hike to Toreadora Lagoon

Explore stunning scenery on this scenic hike.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

2. Visit the Cajas National Park Visitor Center

Learn about local flora and fauna at the center.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

3. Explore the Polylepis Forest

Wander through unique trees in this magical forest.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

4. Birdwatching in Cajas

Spot diverse bird species in their natural habitat.

Available all year

Adults only

No booking required

2 hrs

5. Go fishing in the lagoons

Catch trout in pristine mountain lagoons.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

6. Photography at the Lagunas de Cajas

Capture breathtaking landscapes and wildlife.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

7. Camp under the stars

Experience the beauty of the night sky in nature.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

24 hrs

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)