Birdwatching Tour in Cajas National Park from Cuenca

Record 40 species across alpine forest and grassland where most rivals see half as many

A birdwatching tour in Cajas National Park, 45 minutes from Cuenca, where you record an average of 40 bird species across Andean forest, Polylepis forest and paramo ecosystems with a bilingual guide, binoculars and box lunch. The tour runs 8 hours and includes hotel pickup. You choose between a shared group or a private departure.

The experience

Cajas sits at altitude with over 230 lakes spread across different ecosystems, each one hosting different birds. The Violet Throated Metaltail is endemic to this park, one of Ecuador's most important species, and you have a real chance to spot it here alongside the Blue Mantled Thornbill, Gray Breasted Mountain Toucan, Andean Guan, Spectacled Whitestar and Tawny Antpitta. A bilingual birdwatcher guide leads the route and keeps a bird list of the area so you know what you've recorded and what to listen for next. Binoculars are provided (request them when you book). Bottled water and a box lunch sustain you through the day.

The tour departs from your hotel or apartment and covers the park's main birdwatching zones over 8 hours. You move between the Andean Mountain forest, Polylepis forest and paramo grassland. Each transition brings new species and a shift in landscape. The guide positions you at the best viewing spots and calls out birds as they move through the canopy or across open ground, so even if you're new to birdwatching you'll learn to pick them out. The pace is steady but not rushed. You're watching and listening, not hiking hard.

What’s included

• Pickup from your hotel or apartment.
• private transportation in the park.
• a bilingual birdwatcher guide.
• binoculars.
• a bird list of the area.
• bottled water.
• and a box lunch.

Options for this experience

2 options

Group tourGuide in English or Spanish · 06:30A great choice for anyone who'd like to meet new people along the way. Pickup is included.

Private tourGuide in English or Spanish · 06:30A special option tailored to your needs, where you can set the pickup time and other details yourself. Includes pickup.

You pick the guide language when booking.

You'll see the exact price of each option when you check availability.See dates and prices

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 06:30

AgesAdult (18 to 80 years) · Under 18: can't be booked

GroupUp to 8

Live guideEnglish and Spanish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Good to know

Moderate physical effortInfant seats availableNot recommended with heart problems

Operated by Polylepis Tours

Is this one for you?Choose the group tour if you want to share the experience and split the cost. Pick the private tour if you prefer a guide focused only on your group and the flexibility to linger at a spot longer. Either way, moderate fitness is essential: the altitude and 8-hour day demand it, and that's what lets you reach the remote zones where the rarest birds feed.

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

How many bird species can I realistically expect to see on this tour?

An average of 40 species across the day. The exact count depends on season and weather, but the guide's knowledge of where each species feeds and nests means you'll see far more than a casual walk would turn up.

What's the difference between the group tour and private tour options?

The group tour shares a guide and vehicle with other birdwatchers. The private tour is just you, your group and the guide. Both follow the same route and include the same birds, binoculars and lunch. The choice is whether you want company or not.

Is this tour physically demanding?

The tour requires at least a moderate level of fitness. You're at altitude in a mountain park, moving between viewing spots over 8 hours, so steady legs and good cardiovascular health matter. It's not a strenuous hike, but it's not a casual stroll either.

What ecosystems will I see in Cajas?

Cajas spans Andean Mountain forest, Polylepis forest and paramo grassland. Each ecosystem supports different birds and plants, so the landscape shifts noticeably as you move through the park during the day.

Does the tour include meals and water?

Yes. Bottled water is provided throughout the day, and a box lunch is included. If you need a vegetarian option, let the operator know when you book.