Private Cajas National Park Tour Through Cloud Forest and Moorlands

Cajas National Park is a remarkable UNESCO Biosphere Reserve nestled in the Ecuadorian Andes. This private tour offers the chance to explore its enchanting cloud forests and high-altitude paramo landscapes. Led by a knowledgeable naturalist, you’ll discover unique Polylepis trees, spot wildlife like llamas, and savor a traditional trout lunch from local farms. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, this immersive experience promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for this stunning, ecologically diverse region.

Good To Know

• Full-day private hiking tour from Cuenca exploring Cajas National Park’s primary cloud forest, high-altitude paramo landscape, and unique Polylepis trees.
• Experience the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve’s diverse ecosystems, including inland waterways, wetlands, and potential llama sightings along the trail.
• Enjoy a traditional trout lunch from local fish farms, complementing the immersive hiking adventure.
• Tour includes knowledgeable naturalist guide, all taxes and fees, and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
• Highly rated tour with 90% recommendation and 5.0 stars, praised for its beautiful scenery and expert guides.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This private full-day tour from Cuenca, Ecuador is designed for hikers who want to explore the primary cloud forest and Cajas National Park.

Visitors will experience the high-altitude paramo landscape and watershed within a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. There’s an opportunity to see llamas along the way.

The tour includes a trout lunch from local fish farms. Hikers will traverse the primary Montane or cloud forest, visit an inland waterway and moorland ecosystem with wetlands and lakes, and walk to unique Polylepis trees – the highest growing trees in the world, native to South America.

Tour Details and Itinerary

The tour takes hikers through the primary Montane or cloud forest.

Visitors will explore an inland waterway and moorland ecosystem, complete with wetlands and lakes.

The highlight is the chance to walk among the unique Polylepis trees, the highest growing trees in the world, native to South America.

Guests will enjoy a traditional trout lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Cuenca.

The tour provides an opportunity to experience the high-altitude paramo landscape and watershed within a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, with the potential to spot llamas along the way.

Inclusions and Logistics

Included in the price of the private Cajas National Park tour are all taxes, fees, and handling charges.

Visitors will also be provided with a knowledgeable naturalist guide/driver throughout the experience. Lunch at a traditional restaurant and gratuities are covered as well.

Pickup is available, or guests can meet the tour operator at their Cuenca location. The tour requires a minimum of two people per booking, and free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours before the start of the tour.

Guests should be prepared for the high-altitude landscape, which ranges from 10,000 to 13,000 feet.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

The private Cajas National Park tour is offered at a special price of $80.10, down from the original $84.99. The price varies based on the group size, with a minimum of 2 people required per booking.

Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. The tour includes all taxes, fees, and handling charges, as well as a knowledgeable naturalist guide and driver. Lunch and gratuities are also provided.

This well-rated tour has received 90% recommendation from previous travelers, with an overall rating of 5.0 stars out of 10 reviews. Guests should be prepared for the high elevation, which ranges from 10,000 to 13,000 feet.

Reviews and Ratings

According to the provided information, the private Cajas National Park tour has garnered highly positive reviews from previous travelers.

With 10 reviews and a 90% recommendation rate, the tour has an impressive overall rating of 5.0 stars. The vast majority of travelers left five-star reviews, praising the knowledgeable guides and the tour’s beautiful scenery.

However, a single three-star review noted some challenges with the high elevation, which ranges from 10,000 to 13,000 feet.

High-Altitude Paramo Landscape

As one traverses the Cajas National Park, they’re met with a high-altitude paramo landscape, a unique and fragile ecosystem found only in the tropical Andes.

This moorland landscape is characterized by wetlands, lakes, and rolling hills covered in tussock grasses and low-lying shrubs. The paramo provides essential watershed functions, regulating water flow and serving as a sponge for precipitation.

Visitors have the opportunity to experience this breathtaking alpine environment, with elevations ranging from 10,000 to 13,000 feet. However, the high altitude can present challenges for some travelers, who may need to acclimate to the thinner air.

Unique Polylepis Tree Exploration

Amidst the rolling hills and wetlands of the high-altitude paramo, visitors to Cajas National Park have the chance to encounter the unique Polylepis trees.

These hardy, gnarled trees are the highest growing in the world, native only to the Andes of South America. The tour guides will lead you on a walk to these ancient, otherworldly trees, which tower above the moorland ecosystem.

Observing the Polylepis up close, you’ll notice their peeling, cinnamon-colored bark and twisted, sculptural branches.

This rare opportunity to see these unique high-altitude trees is a highlight of the Cajas National Park tour, offering a glimpse into the park’s remarkable biodiversity.

Trout Lunch From Local Farms

A unique culinary experience awaits during the Cajas National Park tour.

After exploring the high-altitude paramo landscape, visitors will enjoy a tasty trout lunch from local fish farms. The fresh, locally-sourced trout is a perfect complement to the day’s adventurous hiking.

The meal is served at a traditional restaurant, providing an authentic taste of Ecuadorian cuisine. With the trout lunch included in the tour price, travelers don’t have to worry about finding a place to eat.

This well-rounded tour offers an opportunity to take in the natural wonders of Cajas National Park and indulge in a locally-inspired meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Fit Do I Need to Be for This Hike?

This hike requires a moderate level of fitness. Guests should be able to hike for several hours at high elevations up to 13,000 feet. Those with any health concerns should consult their doctor before booking.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks?

You can bring your own food and snacks, but the tour includes a trout lunch from local fish farms. The price covers all taxes, fees, and gratuities, so bringing your own lunch isn’t necessary.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

The tour does not have any age restrictions. Travelers of all ages can participate, though the high-altitude nature of the hike may pose challenges for some. It’s best to check with the tour operator about any age-related considerations.

What Should I Wear and Pack for the Hike?

For the hike, it’s recommended to wear sturdy hiking boots, dress in layers, and pack a small backpack with snacks, water, sunscreen, and a light rain jacket. The weather can be cool and changeable at the high elevations.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, you can customize the tour itinerary. The tour operator offers a private, full-day tour, so they’re flexible to adjust the activities and route based on your interests and fitness level. Just communicate your preferences when booking.

The Sum Up

Set out on a private tour of Cajas National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Explore the cloud forest and moorlands, spot llamas, and enjoy a traditional trout lunch. Led by a knowledgeable naturalist, discover the park’s stunning ecosystems and rich biodiversity, including the unique Polylepis trees and high-altitude paramo landscapes. This full-day hiking adventure offers breathtaking views and an immersive experience in Ecuador’s natural wonders.