Cajas from Cuenca: Day Hike, 3 Cruces Viewpoint & Lunch

Summary

Hiking Cajas from Cuenca with lakes, llamas, Andean forest and local food

You’ll start with hotel pickup in Cuenca before heading into Cajas for a guided hike past glacial lakes and through ancient Polylepis forests. Expect sharp mountain air at 3 Cruces viewpoint, close encounters with llamas if you’re lucky, and an Ecuadorian lunch that warms you up inside. It’s one of those days that lingers long after you’re back in town.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest — I nearly bailed when I saw the morning clouds rolling over Cuenca. But our guide, Daniel, just grinned and said, “That’s normal. Wait until we get to Cajas.” So off we went, winding out of the city in a van that smelled faintly of eucalyptus (or maybe that was my jacket from yesterday’s walk). The drive only took about an hour but felt like a slow climb into another world — everything outside the window turning mossy and wild. Daniel kept pointing out little things: old stone crosses by the road, patches of yellow flowers I’d never noticed before. When we finally stopped at the 3 Cruces viewpoint, the air hit me — sharp, cold, almost sweet. He explained how this ridge splits water toward both oceans. I tried to imagine it; honestly my brain just wanted coffee.

The real heart of this day trip to Cajas National Park started on foot near Toreadora Lake. There’s something weirdly peaceful about walking through paramo — all those spongy plants underfoot and Polylepis trees twisted like they’re hiding secrets. We moved slowly (altitude is no joke), stopping whenever Daniel spotted a bird or some tiny orchid poking out of the grass. At one point he crouched down to show us a medicinal plant locals use for altitude headaches — I pretended to memorize the name but immediately forgot it (sorry, Daniel). Someone in our group gasped when a couple of llamas wandered past; their wool looked matted with last night’s rain.

Lunch was in this little spot just outside the park — nothing fancy but honestly perfect after hiking in chilly air. Soup first (I think it was quinoa?), then trout with rice and avocado for me, veggie option for someone else. The soup tasted earthy and hot and made my fingers tingle back to life. Afterward we drove down to Llaviuco valley where everything felt softer somehow — more green than gold, birds calling in quick bursts from the trees. Daniel talked about how Tomebamba River starts here; I kept thinking about how different water feels up high versus in town.

On the way back to Cuenca I watched fog slip between hills and tried not to doze off. My boots were muddy and my head full of new words for plants I’ll probably never pronounce right. If you’re looking for a day trip from Cuenca that makes you feel small (in a good way), this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Full day tour of Cajas National Park

• Pick up from hotel in Cuenca
• Travel 1 hour to 3 Cruces viewpoint
• Learn about watershed and religious importance
• Take photos of Cajas Park landscape
• Travel 10 minutes to Toreadora area
• Walk 3 hours in Toreadora area
• Enjoy Polylepis Forest and paramo ecosystem
• Lunch with Ecuadorian food options
• Travel 20 minutes to Llaviuco valley
• Explore Llaviuco valley and learn about plants
• Return 1 hour to Cuenca hotel

Top questions

How far is Cajas from Cuenca?

Cajas is about 30 kilometers west of Cuenca; driving takes roughly one hour each way.

Is hotel pickup included on this Cajas tour?

Yes, hotel or apartment pickup in Cuenca is included with your booking.

What’s the typical altitude during the hike?

The main hike takes place around 3,960 meters above sea level; 3 Cruces viewpoint is even higher.

Is lunch included? What kind of food do they serve?

Lunch is included unless you choose otherwise when booking; expect Ecuadorian dishes like soup and trout or vegetarian options.

How long does the day trip last?

The tour lasts approximately seven hours including transport time.

Will we see llamas or alpacas in Cajas?

You might see llamas or alpacas during your walk—there’s no guarantee but sightings are common.

What should I wear for hiking in Cajas?

Wear warm layers, a rain jacket, hiking shoes or boots, sunscreen, and bring a cap or toque—weather can change quickly.

Is this tour suitable for people who aren’t used to hiking at altitude?

You should have moderate fitness; altitude can be challenging so take it slow and listen to your guide’s advice.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Cuenca, all entry fees for Cajas National Park, guided hikes through several areas including Toreadora Lake and Llaviuco valley, plus a traditional Ecuadorian lunch with vegetarian options available before heading back late afternoon by private vehicle.