Cajas National Park
A high-altitude Andean paradise with hundreds of interconnected lagoons, offering dramatic landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, better visibility
Cajas National Park
Best Time
Clearer skies, better visibility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A high-altitude Andean paradise with hundreds of interconnected lagoons, offering dramatic landscapes and rich biodiversity.
"This is one of the most beautiful National Parks anywhere, let alone Ecuador."
🧥 Layer Up for the Cold
It's consistently cold and windy. Bring a warm jacket, hat, and gloves.
💧 Stay Hydrated (Carefully)
Drink bottled water. The park's lagoons are beautiful but not for drinking.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Laguna Grande
Central area of the park
The largest of Cajas's hundreds of lagoons, offering breathtaking reflections and a sense of vastness.
Ruta Cardenillo
Specific hiking trail
A popular and scenic trail showcasing the park's diverse paramo landscape and numerous water bodies.
Santuario de la Virgen del Cajas
Near the park entrance
A unique pilgrimage site nestled among impressive rock formations, offering spiritual and natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Altitude Acclimation is Key
Trail Navigation & Guides
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Layer Up for the Cold
It's consistently cold and windy. Bring a warm jacket, hat, and gloves.
💧 Stay Hydrated (Carefully)
Drink bottled water. The park's lagoons are beautiful but not for drinking.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed
Trails can be muddy and uneven. Waterproof boots are a lifesaver.
🗺️ Consider a Guide
Trails are poorly marked; a guide ensures safety and enhances the experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Layer Up for the Cold
It's consistently cold and windy. Bring a warm jacket, hat, and gloves.
💧 Stay Hydrated (Carefully)
Drink bottled water. The park's lagoons are beautiful but not for drinking.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed
Trails can be muddy and uneven. Waterproof boots are a lifesaver.
🗺️ Consider a Guide
Trails are poorly marked; a guide ensures safety and enhances the experience.
📸 Drone Photography Allowed
Capture stunning aerial views of the lagoons and landscape.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cajas National Park for its breathtaking, otherworldly landscapes and serene atmosphere. The abundance of lagoons and the unique paramo scenery are highlights, offering incredible photographic opportunities. However, many note the challenging high altitude and the need for warm, waterproof clothing, as well as the importance of trail navigation or hiring a guide.
"Such a beautiful place it is so nice to walk around look around and listen to the quietness and enjoy the views. Such an incredible nice place we went on a pretty day but it was a little windy and slightly cold which complimented the experience. You should definitely go here look around there's so much to see and do here just amazing."
S.T. Entertainment & Reviews
"A safe place with a gorgeous landscape…. Can’t wait to come back again. Also, don’t forget to bring your jacket because it is COLD."
Juan Gavilanes
"This is one of the most beautiful National Parks anywhere, let alone Ecuador.
The altitude is very high, so you should be somewhat acclimated before hiking much. There's also a need to layer clothing since it can be warm at time and cold and radiation other times. But each bend you round reveals another incredibly beautiful vista."
Brian Spain
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can easily reach Cajas National Park from Cuenca by public bus or taxi. Buses depart regularly from Cuenca's main bus terminal and take about 45 minutes to an hour. Taxis offer more flexibility but are more expensive.
Yes, Cajas National Park is accessible by car. The drive from Cuenca is scenic and takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour. Parking is available at various trailheads and visitor areas.
Within the park, the primary mode of transport is hiking. For longer distances or to access different trailheads, you might consider hiring a taxi or arranging transport with a tour operator.
There are typically no entrance fees for Cajas National Park itself, but some specific activities or guided tours may incur costs. It's always good to check for any updated regulations before your visit.
Cajas National Park is located about 30-45 kilometers (approximately 19-28 miles) northwest of Cuenca, Ecuador. The journey is relatively short and makes for a perfect day trip. 
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, no advance ticket purchase is required for Cajas National Park as there's no general entrance fee. However, if you book a guided tour, you'll need to arrange that in advance with the tour operator.
Cajas National Park is typically open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, visitor centers and ranger stations may have specific operating hours. It's best to plan your visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
While the park is generally open, certain areas might be temporarily closed due to weather conditions or maintenance. It's advisable to check with local authorities or visitor centers for any current restrictions.
Yes, you can visit Cajas National Park without a guide, but it's strongly recommended to have one, especially for longer hikes, due to poorly marked trails and potential for getting lost.
Upon arrival, it's a good idea to visit the park's visitor center (if available) to get maps, check weather conditions, and receive safety information. Familiarize yourself with the trail options and your chosen route.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular trails include Ruta Cardenillo, Laguna Grande circuit, and trails around the visitor center. The park offers a variety of routes from short walks to challenging multi-day treks.
Yes, Cajas can be family-friendly if you choose shorter, well-marked trails and are prepared for the altitude and cold. Shorter walks around visitor areas offer beautiful scenery without extreme exertion.
Cajas is a haven for birdwatchers, with many migratory species. You might also spot Andean condors, deer, and various small mammals.
Yes, camping is permitted in designated areas within Cajas National Park. Ensure you have the necessary gear for cold, wet conditions and follow park regulations.
The altitude in Cajas National Park ranges from approximately 3,000 to 4,450 meters (9,840 to 14,600 feet) above sea level. Acclimatization is crucial.
📸 📸 Photography
Everywhere! The lagoons, rolling hills, dramatic cloud formations, and unique paramo vegetation offer endless photographic opportunities. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly stunning.
Yes, drone photography is permitted in Cajas National Park, allowing for spectacular aerial views of the vast lagoons and landscapes.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. A sturdy tripod is recommended for low-light conditions or capturing reflections.
While not always explicitly advertised as 'photography tours,' many general guided tours will take you to the most photogenic spots. You can also arrange private tours with guides who understand photography needs.
Early mornings often offer misty, ethereal landscapes, while late afternoons can provide beautiful golden hour light. Midday can be harsh, but the dramatic clouds often add interest.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and water, and consider bringing binoculars for wildlife spotting, which can be a great way to keep kids engaged. While longer hikes might be challenging, the stunning scenery and the unique paramo environment offer a memorable educational experience for younger visitors. Hiring a guide can also make the experience safer and more informative for the whole family.
💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own food and drinks is also a great way to save money, as options within the park are limited. If you plan to camp, ensure you have your own gear, which is more economical than staying in lodges. The park itself has no entrance fee, making it an accessible natural wonder.
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers
However, due to the challenging terrain and potential for getting lost, it's highly advisable for solo hikers to hire a local guide for longer treks. This ensures safety and provides a chance to learn from local expertise. Joining a small group tour can also be a good option for solo travelers looking for companionship and shared experiences. The park's beauty is best appreciated with a sense of security, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the stunning Andean environment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Water Paradise of Cajas
The paramo landscape, characterized by its high-altitude grasslands and unique flora, is shaped by these water systems. The constant moisture and specific soil conditions create a habitat that supports a rich diversity of plant and animal life, making it a crucial area for conservation efforts. The sheer number and beauty of the lagoons are a primary draw for visitors, offering stunning reflections and a sense of serene isolation.
Visitors can explore this aquatic wonderland through various hiking trails that often skirt the edges of these lagoons. The sound of trickling water and the sight of mist rising from the water's surface contribute to the park's magical atmosphere. It's a place where the power and beauty of water are on full display, shaping both the landscape and the life within it.
Navigating Cajas: Trails and Safety
However, a significant aspect of navigating Cajas is the potential for poorly marked trails. This is why many visitors, including those with some hiking experience, strongly recommend hiring a local guide or joining an organized tour. Guides not only ensure you stay on the right path and avoid getting lost but also provide invaluable insights into the local flora, fauna, and cultural significance of the area.
Safety is paramount in this high-altitude environment. Visitors should be prepared for rapidly changing weather, including cold temperatures, strong winds, and sudden rain or fog. Wearing appropriate layered clothing, sturdy waterproof footwear, and carrying essentials like water and snacks are crucial. Acclimatizing to the altitude in Cuenca before your visit is also a key safety measure to prevent altitude sickness.
Beyond the Hike: Accommodation and Activities
Beyond hiking, Cajas National Park is a prime destination for birdwatching, with its rich avian population attracting enthusiasts. Sport fishing is also an option in some of the park's lagoons, offering a different way to connect with the natural environment. For those interested in cultural and spiritual sites, the Santuario de la Virgen del Cajas offers a unique point of interest, blending natural beauty with a place of pilgrimage.
+1Camping is another popular activity for those who wish to spend more time immersed in the park's serene atmosphere. With proper preparation for the challenging weather conditions, camping in Cajas can be a rewarding experience, allowing visitors to witness the park's beauty under the stars.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit