Parque Nacional Cajas: Andean Highland Wilderness
Explore the stunning Andean landscapes of Parque Nacional Cajas near Cuenca, Ecuador. Hike amidst glacial lakes, páramo, and unique wildlife.
Parque Nacional Cajas, a stunning national park near Cuenca, Ecuador, offers a landscape of rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and unique high-altitude ecosystems. Formed by ancient glacial activity, the park is a haven for hikers, birdwatchers, and nature enthusiasts seeking an escape into the Andean wilderness.
A brief summary to Parque Nacional Cajas
- 5P2W+GF5, EC
- +5937-237-0127
- Visit website
Local tips
- Acclimatize to the altitude in Cuenca for a few days before visiting Cajas, as the park's elevation can cause altitude sickness.
- Bring layers of clothing, rain gear, and waterproof hiking boots, as the weather in Cajas can change rapidly.
- Register at the visitor center upon arrival and inform the rangers of your hiking plans.
- Download offline maps and the Parque Nacional Cajas app for trail information and navigation.
- Pack high-energy snacks and plenty of water, as hiking at high altitude can be tiring.
Getting There
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Public Transport
The most affordable way to reach Parque Nacional Cajas from Cuenca is by public bus. Head to the Terminal Terrestre (bus terminal) and look for buses heading to Guayaquil. Several bus companies, including Occidental and Atrain Alianza, offer frequent departures throughout the day. A one-way ticket costs approximately $2-3 USD. Ask the driver to drop you off at the main visitor center near Laguna Toreadora (Refugio Toreadora or Visitor Centre). The bus journey takes about 45 minutes to an hour. To return to Cuenca, cross the road from the visitor center and flag down a bus heading in the Cuenca direction. Buses pass by regularly, with a waiting time of approximately 10-40 minutes. Keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for potential delays.
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Taxi
Taxis offer a more direct and convenient way to reach Parque Nacional Cajas from Cuenca. A taxi ride from Cuenca to the park takes approximately 30-35 minutes. The cost of a taxi ranges from $16 to $25 USD. Negotiate the fare with the driver before starting the journey. Taxis can be hailed on the street or booked through a taxi service. Some taxi or pick-up truck services may be available for the return trip from the park to Cuenca. These services typically cost around $15-20 USD. It is advisable to arrange a pick-up time and location in advance.
Discover more about Parque Nacional Cajas
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Laguna Toreadora
8.3 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Laguna Toreadora, a stunning lake in Ecuador, perfect for relaxation and nature exploration.
Laguna Llaviucu
11.9 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Laguna Llaviucu, a stunning lake in Ecuador surrounded by lush landscapes and adventure opportunities for nature lovers.
Hosteria Dos Chorreras
12.0 km
Discover the beauty of nature and comfort at Hosteria Dos Chorreras, your gateway to adventure in Cuenca, Ecuador.
Baños de Cuenca
22.4 km
Experience the tranquil beauty and cultural richness of Baños de Cuenca, Ecuador's serene parish famed for its hot springs and lush landscapes.
Casa de las Posadas
27.2 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage of Cuenca at Casa de las Posadas, a museum that showcases the city's historical artifacts and captivating architecture.
Mansión Alcázar
27.8 km
Experience the charm and elegance of Cuenca at Mansión Alcázar, where luxury meets tradition in a stunning hotel setting.
lugar en donde vivo
28.1 km
Experience the tranquility and warmth of Chiquintad with charming lodging that offers a perfect blend of comfort and cultural immersion in Ecuador.
Seminario San Luis
28.2 km
Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Seminario San Luis, a captivating religious site in Cuenca, Ecuador, perfect for reflection and exploration.
Casa de la Cultura Núcleo del Azuay
28.3 km
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Provincial Court of Azuay
28.3 km
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Selina Cuenca
28.3 km
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Mayor’s Office
28.4 km
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Amazing South American Tours
28.4 km
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Iglesia Católica Nuestra Señora de La Merced | Cuenca
28.4 km
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Province House
28.8 km
Explore Province House in Cuenca, a stunning heritage site rich in history and architectural splendor, that showcases Ecuador's cultural legacy.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mirador Tres Cruces
8.1 km
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Parque Nacional Cajas - laguna Toreadora
8.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Parque Nacional Cajas - Laguna Toreadora, a natural wonder in Cuenca, Ecuador, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Lagunas Unidas
9.5 km
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Termas Pumamaqui
10.6 km
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Cajas National Park
14.5 km
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Piedra de Agua, Fuente Termal & Spa
22.6 km
Discover tranquility and wellness at Piedra de Agua Spa, where natural hot springs and luxurious treatments await you in Cuenca, Ecuador.
Thermal SPA Novaqua Hostería Durán
22.8 km
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Turi viewpoint way
26.8 km
Experience breathtaking views of Cuenca from Turi Viewpoint, the perfect spot for panoramic photography and serene relaxation amidst stunning landscapes.
Art Cuenca
27.2 km
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Parque San Sebastián
27.4 km
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Cruz Del Vado
27.7 km
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PACCARI / CASA DE EXPERIENCIAS CHOCOLATERIA
27.7 km
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CENTRO ECUESTRE BELLAVISTA
27.9 km
Discover the beauty of Cuenca, Ecuador, with unforgettable horseback riding experiences at Centro Ecuestre Bellavista.
Mercado 10 de Agosto
27.9 km
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Cuenca Bestours Tour Operator
28.0 km
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Essential places to dine
Izhcayrumi Restaurant
11.8 km
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Restaurante RAID 1969
19.6 km
Experience authentic Ecuadorian cuisine with stunning views at Restaurante RAID 1969 in San Felipe de Molleturo.
Le Petit Jardin
22.4 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Le Petit Jardin in Cuenca—where every dish tells a story of culinary excellence.
Restaurant VISTA Linda
24.3 km
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Joe's Secret Garden
25.8 km
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La Guarida
26.7 km
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Le moulin Restaurante
27.3 km
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Casa Azul
27.4 km
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Akelarre Restaurant
27.9 km
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Las Cúpulas Restaurante
28.0 km
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Don Colon Restaurante
28.1 km
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Raymipampa Restaurant
28.2 km
Experience authentic Ecuadorian cuisine at Raymipampa Restaurant in Cuenca - where tradition meets flavor beside the Cathedral.
LaMaría Cocina Libre
28.2 km
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El Mercado
28.2 km
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Zircus Restaurant
28.2 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Amazon Aroma
25.7 km
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Mercado El Arenal
25.8 km
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Plaza De Las Américas
25.9 km
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Batan Shopping Mall
26.3 km
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Los Totems
26.5 km
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HiGo store
27.1 km
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Los Nogales
27.3 km
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Maki FairTrade
27.5 km
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CuencaShop
27.5 km
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Detay
27.6 km
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LUXURIES
27.6 km
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Mall Del Río
27.7 km
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Rbs mall del rio
27.7 km
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EDCA | MALL DE RÍO (CUENCA)
27.7 km
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Centro Municipal Artesanal Arts & Crafts
27.9 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
COFFEE DRINK'S RESTAURANTE KARAOKE
22.8 km
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Chill & Chela Beer Garden
26.7 km
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Bar De La Vieja Bruja
27.4 km
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Jodoco Belgian Bistro
27.4 km
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Guarapitas Punto de venta
27.5 km
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Kañari House
28.1 km
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Mayu
28.1 km
Experience the best of Cuenca's grill cuisine at Mayu, where local flavors meet casual dining in a vibrant atmosphere.
Historico CLUB
28.1 km
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Pecado Morlaco
28.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Pecado Morlaco, Cuenca's premier disco club, where every night is a celebration of dance and music.
GARAMONT Bar Karaoke
28.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cuenca at GARAMONT Bar Karaoke, where delicious burgers meet the thrill of karaoke and dancing.
Long Play Retro Bar
28.2 km
Experience the vibrant nostalgia of Long Play Retro Bar in Cuenca, where delicious drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Inca Bar and Lounge
28.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Inca Bar and Lounge in Cuenca, where live music, tacos, and drinks create unforgettable moments.
Cuatro Rios Beer Garden & Coffee
28.3 km
Explore Cuatro Rios Beer Garden & Coffee - A Brewpub Oasis in Cuenca, Featuring Artisanal Beers and a Charming Garden Ambiance.
La Víspera del Chuchaqui
28.3 km
Experience the vibrant culture and exquisite flavors at La Víspera del Chuchaqui, a must-visit bar and restaurant in Cuenca, Ecuador.
Down Under Bar - Restaurant
28.3 km
Discover the lively ambiance and delightful cuisine at Down Under Bar - Restaurant in Cuenca, where every meal is a celebration of flavors.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
El Trébol Night Club
26.3 km
Dance the night away at El Trébol Night Club, Cuenca's hotspot for vibrant nightlife and unforgettable experiences.
La Piramide Nightclub
26.3 km
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El Oasis Night Club
26.4 km
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h6 Night Club
26.4 km
Discover the heartbeat of Cuenca's nightlife at h6 Night Club, where music, dance, and unforgettable moments come alive.
Night Club CHICAS-CHICAS
26.5 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at CHICAS-CHICAS, the ultimate club experience in Cuenca, where the music never stops and dance reigns supreme.
FLASHBACK DISCOTECA
28.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Cuenca at FLASHBACK DISCOTECA, where electric beats and unforgettable moments await you.
HideOut Disco Club
28.7 km
Discover the energetic nightlife at HideOut Disco Club in Cuenca, where vibrant music and dance create unforgettable evenings.
Tauros night club
46.0 km
Discover an electrifying nightlife experience at Tauros Night Club in La Puntilla, where music, dance, and celebration come alive.
Discoteca Red Fire
46.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Discoteca Red Fire, the premier disco club in Santa Isabel, Ecuador, where the music never stops.
night club chirimoya
48.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Chirimoya Night Club in Santa Isabel, where music, dance, and unforgettable memories await.
Night Club El Secreto
51.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at El Secreto, Ecuador's top night club, where great music, delicious drinks, and a lively crowd await.
Extasis # 2 Exclusivo El Tim
89.8 km
Discover the heart of Machala's nightlife at Extasis #2 Exclusivo El Tim, where vibrant music and lively atmosphere create unforgettable nights.
Night Club Extasis
89.9 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Machala at Night Club Extasis, where vibrant music and energetic dance create unforgettable moments.
Imperio Night Club
93.6 km
Discover the pulse of Delia's nightlife at Imperio Night Club, where music, dance, and vibrant energy come together for an unforgettable experience.
One Club
97.1 km
Experience electrifying nightlife at One Club in Gualaquiza, where the music never stops and the fun is guaranteed.
