Andes Tour – El Cajas National Park, Full day, Daily, Includes Lunch

Information

Cajas National Park, full day, daily, includes lunch (private)

The highest point is reached on the road at Three Crosses, the water that divides those that go to the Pacific and to the Atlantic. The wind and drizzle can make it very cold, but the scenery surrounding these 230 lakes is splendid, for walking and hiking, for observing flora, fauna and bird life.

Day by Day

Tour Details

A jacket and walking shoes are necessary when heading for the area of Cajas, 19 miles (30 Km.) west of Cuenca. Cajas is lake country, a protected 28,800-hectare area starting at 3,000 meters (10,000 feet) above sea level; the region shows remains of intense volcanic activity and glaciation. The highest point is reached on the road at Three Crosses, the water divide of those than go to the Pacific and to the Atlantic. The wind and drizzle can make it very cold, but the scenery surrounding these 230 lakes is splendid, for walking and hiking, for observing flora, fauna and bird life. The vegetation includes small forests of quinua trees, a high protein grain. These dwarf forests are home to many species of birds like hummingbirds and the gray-breasted mountain toucan. The cold lakes of Cajas are full of trout, and A visit to a trout-breeding hacienda is included, where lunch will naturally feature delicious fresh trout.
Entrance fee to Cajas National Park is included.

Travel Facts

Warm clothing is needed. It is quite windy, consider gloves and ear protection. Sunblock (SPF 40) even if the day is cloudy. Good walking shoes. Camera (wide angle lens). Binoculars. Sunglasses.
Altitude: 2,550 meters (7,750 feet) to 3,000 meters (10,000 feet)
Average Temperature Day: 5° to 20° C (40° to 68° F)