Cajas Challenge Trail from Grasslands to Cloud Forest
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the hidden trails of Cajas National Park. Starting at the Toreadora refuge, our certified guide will lead you along a 16-kilometer (10-mile) pristine trail, showcasing stunning Andean grasslands, serene lakes, and sweeping views that few experience. The trail reaches a peak of 13,388 feet, descending to 10,600 feet, making it a moderate hike for those in good physical condition. After a boxed lunch in the peaceful Llaviuco valley, we’ll return you to Cuenca with hotel drop-off included.
Options
Private Tour
Duration: 9 hours
Box Lunch
Private transport: SUV, Van, Minibus depending on group size
Pickup included
What's included in Cajas Challenge Trail from Grasslands to Cloud Forest
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Cuenca
We will pick you up at your hotel or Airbnb in Cuenca, then drive for about 45 minutes to the Cajas National Park.
Laguna La Toreadora
We'll begin our adventure with registration at the Toreadora refuge, located in the upper part of Cajas National Park. Here, our certified guide will handle the check-in before leading us into the hidden trails of Cajas Route 6 - 7. As we hike, you’ll marvel at the untouched beauty of the Andean grasslands, punctuated by serene lakes and sweeping landscapes that few have explored. This 16-kilometer (10-mile) trail takes us from a peak elevation of 13,388 feet, gradually descending to 10,600 feet, with an elevation gain of 1,099 feet. Classified as a moderate-difficulty hike, this route is best suited for those in good physical condition, ready to experience the pristine beauty of Cajas National Park.
We'll arrive at the stunning Llaviuco Valley, nestled within the cloud forest, where you can take in the breathtaking views and perhaps spot alpacas along the trail—an ideal opportunity for memorable photos. Here, we’ll enjoy a box lunch surrounded by nature before meeting our driver for the comfortable return journey to Cuenca, with drop-off at your hotel.
Inclusions
- Cajas Peper Work
- Box lunch: Sandwich, water, snacks, fruits
- Tour Guide Certified
- Hotel Pick-up and drop-off
- Trasnport
- Travel insurance
- Something not specified here
- Tips (Optional based on your experience)
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
Choose to be picked up from a list of locations
Please arrive at the pick up point 15 minutes before departure time.
Additional Information
We pick up all travelers at hotel or Airbnb in central located hotels in Cuenca. If you hotel is not on the list, please contact us after booking to cordinate pick up time.
