Cajas National Park offers a unique high-Andean landscape with over 270 lakes scattered across 29,000 hectares of páramo and cloud forest ecosystem. Elevation ranges from 3,100m to 4,500m, creating otherworldly scenery of moorlands, rock formations, and reflective glacial lakes. Fifteen hiking trails wind through habitats where condors, spectacled bears, and hummingbirds thrive. Weather changes rapidly at these altitudes - bring layers and rain gear regardless of forecast.
Entry free - register at Visitor Center. Camping: foreigners $4, locals $2. Guide required during rainy season (Nov-May)
June-September for driest weather. Start hikes before 10 AM to avoid afternoon fog and rain. Altitude acclimatization important.
faq.subtitle Cajas National Park
Public buses to Guayaquil stop at Laguna Toreadora Visitor Center (1 hour, $3). Ask driver to stop. Alternative: taxi $25-30 one-way or organized tour. Last return bus around 5 PM - check current schedule.
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