Cajas Challenge Trail from Grasslands to Cloud Forest

Cuenca, Ecuador
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Duration8h 30m
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish, Spanish
Group sizeUp to 15 travelers
Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below

Overview

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

Shared Tour

Public transport: Private transport will be provided for groups of four or more participants.
Minimum 2 participants: We need a minimum of two participants to confirm this hike.
Pickup included

Private Tour

Duration: 9 hours
Box Lunch
Private transport: SUV, Van, Minibus depending on group size
Pickup included

What's included

  • 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)

What to expect

  1. Cuenca
    30m
    We will pick you up at your hotel or Airbnb in Cuenca, then drive for about 45 minutes to the Cajas National Park.
  2. Laguna La Toreadora
    7h · Admission ticket included
    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.
  3. 1h · Admission ticket included
    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.

Meeting and pickup

Pickup details

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.

Additional information

  • 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

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
From
$94.00 per person
Check availability & book
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Instant confirmation
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
Operated by Cuenca Bestours Tour Operator · Booked through Viator
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From
$94.00 per person
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