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Home/Ecuador/El Cajas National Park

El Cajas National Park: Ultimate Adventure Guide

Embark on an unforgettable journey through El Cajas National Park in Azuay, a high-altitude paradise famous for its breathtaking Andean landscapes and over 200 glacial lakes. Whether you are looking for thrilling hiking adventures, immersive nature tours, or peaceful walks through the unique Polylepis forests, El Cajas offers a surreal landscape of lagoons and cloud forests. Discover the magic of the paramo ecosystem with expert-led guided tours that showcase the park's most picturesque vistas. Book your adventure today to experience one of Ecuador's most stunning natural wonders!

4.8/5 avg ratingTours from $4023 amazing experiencesFree cancellation included

At a glance

Tour Price

Tour Price

$48–$107 typical

Median price is $74, with a range of $40–$152

Rating

Rating

4.82★ average

Based on 888 pooled reviews with ~95% positive sentiment

Tour Length

Tour Length

4.1–8 hours typical

Median duration is 8 hours

Best For

Best For

Nature & Hiking

96% of options focus on nature, 70% feature hiking

Booking Perks

Booking Perks

100% free cancellation

All 23 available tours offer instant confirmation

Tour Style

Tour Style

High private tour share

43% of options are private tours, 74% are eco-friendly

23 Products

Cajas National Park Small-Group tour from Cuenca

Cajas National Park Small-Group tour from Cuenca

8 hrsEco-FriendlyFree cancellation
4.96 (223 reviews)
94.88%
5.12%
Excellentpicturesque vistashighly recommend
Viator
$48
Book now
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Cajas National Park Small-Group tour from Cuenca
Summary

Hike through the ecosystem of primary cloud forest, afterwards the intercontinental water division and finally take an amazing walk across the highlands to exprore the unique Polylepis Forest. The park includes approximately 768 lakes in an area of 70,533 acres. It is one of the most important water...

Inclusions
  • Lunch with trout option (IF SELECTED during the booking process)
  • All taxes, fees and handling charges
  • Hotel Pick-up & Drop-off
  • Naturalist Tour Guide
  • Transport by private vehicle
Exclusions
  • Gratuities (Optional)
Itinerary
  • El Cajas National Park
Good to know
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health, Public transportation options are available nearby, Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap, Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness, A minimum of 2 people is required to operate shared tours. We reserve the right to cancel the tour if there are not at least 2 participants., Bookings made 48 hours prior to the tour are subject to guide availability., For Shared Tours hotel pickups commence prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation., Vegetarian/Vegan/Gluten-Free/Lactose-Free options are available, please advise at the time of booking if required., For 1 to 6 passengers, a bilingual guide will also be the driver. For more than 6 passengers, a driver and a bilingual guide will be provided. Max group size 15 travelers.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Amazing Cajas National Park Tour from Cuenca

Amazing Cajas National Park Tour from Cuenca

8 hrsFree cancellation
4.93 (251 reviews)
94.86%
5.14%
amazingHigh recommendhighly knowledgeable
Viator
$47
Book now
View Details
Amazing Cajas National Park Tour from Cuenca
Summary

Discover the magic of Cajas National Park, one of the most beautiful places in South America, on a full day tour of approximately 7 hours. Explore and learn about the Andean vegetation. In this spectacular place you can enjoy a lake system that has more than 200 lakes of glacial origin. In addition ...

Inclusions
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Professional guide
  • All Fees and Taxes
  • Lunch (Less in the option without lunch)
  • Transport by private vehicle
Exclusions
  • Drinks
  • Tips
  • Personal expenses
Itinerary
  • El Cajas National Park
  • El Cajas National Park
  • Laguna La Toreadora
  • El Cajas National Park
  • Cuenca
Good to know
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health, Specialized infant seats are available, Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness, Wear warm and comfortable clothes, rain jacket, hiking shoes, cap or toque, sunscreem, Minimum 1 adult to book this tour, Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required, After booking this tour we required : names, passport numbers, age and nationality of all participants
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Cajas National Park Half Day Tour from Cuenca

Cajas National Park Half Day Tour from Cuenca

4.3 hrsEco-FriendlyFree cancellation
4.93 (177 reviews)
96.04%
3.96%
GOODexcellent guidefantastic views
Viator
$39
Book now
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Cajas National Park Half Day Tour from Cuenca
Summary

Cajas National Park is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful natural places of Ecuador with more than 200 glacial lakes and a range of alternatives for hiking for everyone. Enjoy the scenery of the Andean Highlands during this 4-hour approx. guided trip.

Inclusions
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Professional guide
  • All Fees and Taxes
  • Transport by private vehicle
Exclusions
  • Lunch
  • Food and drinks
Itinerary
  • El Cajas National Park
  • Laguna La Toreadora
  • Mirador Tres Cruces
  • Cuenca
Good to know
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, Not recommended for pregnant travelers, Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health, Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Cajas Unveiled: A Half-Day Escape from Cuenca

Cajas Unveiled: A Half-Day Escape from Cuenca

4 hrsFree cancellation
5 (70 reviews)
98.32%
1.68%
amazingvery knowledgeableexcellent guide
Viator
$40
Book now
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Cajas Unveiled: A Half-Day Escape from Cuenca
Summary

Explore one of the most spectacular parks in Ecuador on our half-day tour from Cuenca. Hike through the park's grasslands and its landscape surrounded by lakes, paramo vegetation, llamas, ancient Polylepis trees. A great option hikers, nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Inclusions
  • Hotel pick up/drop off
  • All taxes, fees and handling charges (If aplicable)
  • Transportation
  • Licensed Tour Guide/Driver
Exclusions
  • Gratuities (Optional)
Itinerary
  • El Cajas National Park
Good to know
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, Public transportation options are available nearby, Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap, Not recommended for pregnant travelers, Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health, Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Birdwatching Tour in Cajas National Park from Cuenca

Birdwatching Tour in Cajas National Park from Cuenca

8 hrsFree cancellation
5 (58 reviews)
98.92%
1.08%
excellentextremely knowledgeableclear guidance
Viator
$100
Book now
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Birdwatching Tour in Cajas National Park from Cuenca
Summary

The park is located only 45 minutes from Cuenca. This lagoon system, with over 230 lakes, invites you to enjoy one of the nicest landscapes in South America. There are different ecosystems such as: Andean Mountain forest, Polylepis forest, paramo or grassland. You will have the chance to spot many i...

Inclusions
  • Box lunch or Lunch
  • Pick up (hotels or apartments)
  • Binoculars (please ask for these in advance)
  • Private transportation
  • Bird list of the area
  • Bilingual birdwatcher tour guide
Exclusions
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips
Itinerary
  • El Cajas National Park
Good to know
  • Specialized infant seats are available, Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health, Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness, Minimum age is 12 years, Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required, A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Legendary Luspa Private Trek

Legendary Luspa Private Trek

7 hrsPrivate tourEco-FriendlyFree cancellation
5 (13 reviews)
99.71%
0.29%
Wonderfulwonderful experienceexperienced and knowledgeable guide
Viator
$75
Book now
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Legendary Luspa Private Trek
Summary

Prepare yourself to be amazed! This is a hiking tour of a remote section of the backcountry of Cajas National Park, and we are the only operator that offers it. You will be in awe as you are surrounded by mountains, cliffs, lakes, rivers, grasslands, and unique flora. We will observe different ecolo...

Itinerary
  • Azuay Province
  • El Cajas National Park
Good to know
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap, Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health, Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness, Guests should have good physical health; intermediate hiking level., Guests should take at least 2 days in Cuenca to acclimate to the Hugh elevation before taking this tour.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Cajas National Park Hiking Tour from Cuenca

Cajas National Park Hiking Tour from Cuenca

8 hrsEco-FriendlyFree cancellation
4.93 (14 reviews)
100%
0%
excelentemuy amenaexcellent tour guide
Viator
$47
Book now
View Details
Cajas National Park Hiking Tour from Cuenca
Summary

Discover the magic of Cajas National Park, one of the most beautiful places in South America, on a full day tour of approximately 8 hours. Explore and learn about the Andean vegetation.  In this spectacular place you can enjoy a lake system that has more than 200 lakes of glacial origin.  In additio...

Inclusions
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Professional guide
  • Lunch ( less in the option without lunch)
  • All activities
  • Transport by private vehicle
Exclusions
  • beverages
  • Tips
Itinerary
  • El Cajas National Park
  • El Cajas National Park
  • Laguna La Toreadora
  • El Cajas National Park
  • Cuenca
Good to know
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health, Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, Public transportation options are available nearby, Specialized infant seats are available, Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness, A minimum of 1 people per booking is required, Minimum age is 11 years, Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, no refund will be given
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Wonderful Cajas National Park tour from Cuenca

Wonderful Cajas National Park tour from Cuenca

8 hrsFree cancellation
4.85 (20 reviews)
94.66%
5.34%
greatgood guidanceinteresting experience
Viator
$48
Book now
View Details
Wonderful Cajas National Park tour from Cuenca
Summary

Discover the magic of Cajas National Park, one of the most beautiful places in South America, on a full day tour of approximately 7 hours. Explore and learn about the Andean vegetation. In this spectacular place you can enjoy a lake system that has more than 200 lakes of glacial origin. In addition ...

Inclusions
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Professional guide
  • Lunch ( less in the option without lunch)
  • Transport by private vehicle
Exclusions
  • Drinks
  • Tips
  • Personal expenses
Itinerary
  • El Cajas National Park
  • El Cajas National Park
  • Laguna La Toreadora
  • El Cajas National Park
  • Cuenca
Good to know
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health, Specialized infant seats are available, Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness, Minimum age is 6 years, Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required, Children rate applies only when sharing with 1 paying adult
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Ultimate Cajas National Park Full-Day Adventure with Local Expert

Ultimate Cajas National Park Full-Day Adventure with Local Expert

8 hrsEco-FriendlyFree cancellation
4.79 (24 reviews)
86.9%
13.1%
amazinghikerecommend
Viator
$55
Book now
View Details
Ultimate Cajas National Park Full-Day Adventure with Local Expert
Summary

Embark on an exclusive small-group hiking adventure in Cajas National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity. Begin your journey at the continental divide, where waters flow toward both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, offering a unique geog...

Inclusions
  • Lunch with trout option (if selected during the booking process)
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • All taxes, fees and handling charges
  • Licensed Naturalist Tour Guide
  • Private Transportation
Exclusions
  • Gratuities (Optional)
  • Something not mentioned herein
Itinerary
  • El Cajas National Park
Good to know
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers, Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health, Public transportation options are available nearby, Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap, Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness, A minimum of 2 people per booking is required to operate shared tours. We reserve the right to cancel the tour if there are not at least 2 participants., Bookings made 48 hours prior the tour are subject to guide availability., Please contact us at [email protected] or WhatsApp +593-987-796-896 within 24 hours notice to reconfirm the tour and pick-up time., Vegetarian/Vegan/Gluten-Free/Lactose-Free options are available, please advise at time of booking if required., For 1 to 6 passengers, a bilingual guide will also be the driver. For more than 6 passengers, a driver and a bilingual guide will be provided. Max group size 15 passengers., Shared Tours hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time., Comfortable walking shoes and sun protection are recommended.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Private Cajas National Park Tour through Cloud Forest and Moorlands

Private Cajas National Park Tour through Cloud Forest and Moorlands

7.5 hrsPrivate tourEco-FriendlyFree cancellation
4.8 (10 reviews)
94.42%
5.58%
very knowledgeablebeautiful adventurehighly recommended
Viator
$89
Book now
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Private Cajas National Park Tour through Cloud Forest and Moorlands
Summary

Hike through the ecosystem of primary cloud forest, later the intercontinental water division and finally take an amazing walk across the highlands to the unique Polylepis Forest.

Inclusions
  • Naturalist tour guide/driver
  • All taxes, fees and handling charges
  • Hotel/port pickup and drop-off
Itinerary
  • El Cajas National Park
Good to know
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap, Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, Infant meals not included, Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required, Comfortable hiking shoes are recommended, A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Pairs well with

Landmarks travelers visit on the same route as El Cajas National Park.

Devil's Nose Railroad (Nariz del Diablo)
Learn more

Devil's Nose Railroad (Nariz del Diablo)

78 km away • from $175

Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve (Reserva Geobotánica Pululahua)
Learn more

Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve (Reserva Geobotánica Pululahua)

328 km away • from $89

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common questions travelers ask before visiting.

Among the tours we compare across booking platforms, prices range from $48–$107, with most falling in that band. The full spread of options runs $40–$152, so booking ahead can help you find better rates. All 23 options we track offer free cancellation and instant confirmation, so you can lock in a date without risk.

El Cajas is almost entirely focused on nature experiences. Hiking is the most common type of tour, accounting for 70% of the options we compare, followed by nature-focused activities and city tours. About 74% of tours are tagged eco-friendly, reflecting the park's conservation focus. Reviewers consistently praise the amazing scenery, excellent guides, and knowledgeable instruction across the tours we track.

Tours range from about 4 to 8 hours, with most running the full day. This gives you substantial time to explore the park's landscapes and wildlife. Most tours include a guide, and about half come with meals and transport included, so you can plan accordingly.

Yes, 43% of the options we compare are private tours, making them a significant choice if you want a personalized experience. The rest are group tours, so you have flexibility depending on your budget and group size. Private tours typically cost within the same $48–$107 range as group options.

Most tours include a professional guide (87% of options), and about three-quarters offer hotel pickup and drop-off. Roughly half include meals and transport within the park itself. Check the listing details for your chosen tour, since inclusions vary, but the guided, all-in-one format is standard across the options we compare.

Tours are offered in English and Spanish, covering the two most common languages for visitors to the region. This makes booking straightforward whether you're a native English speaker or prefer Spanish-language guidance.

Tours here earn an average rating of 4.82 stars across 888 combined reviews across booking platforms, with roughly 95% positive sentiment. Reviewers frequently highlight excellent guides, stunning vistas, and the knowledgeable instruction they received, making it one of the most consistently praised destinations we compare.

Most tours combine walking (61% of options) with private vehicle transport (48%). This mix lets you cover more ground while still experiencing the park on foot where it matters most. A smaller share use regular cars for access, but the walking-plus-vehicle combination is the standard approach across the options we compare.

Use local buses for affordable transport, or hire taxis for convenience. Walking the historic center is also pleasant and reveals colonial architecture.

Cuenca sits at 2,560 meters elevation. Allow 1-2 days to acclimatize, stay hydrated, and consult a doctor if you have heart or lung conditions.

Try ceviche, locro stew, and empanadas. Visit San Francisco Market for fresh produce and traditional foods, or Mercado 10 de Agosto for local crafts.

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