This National Park is one of the most beautiful natural sanctuaries in Ecuador, just 30 kilometers from the Colonial City of Cuenca. This protected area has an area of 28000 hectares, an elevation between 3200mts to 4450mts and an average temperature of 10 degrees Celsius.
Due to its beautiful landscapes, endemic flora & fauna, archaeological value and its nearly 235 lakes, the reserve is added to the World Network of Biosphere Reserves by UNESCO.
You can visit the National Park year-round but between July and January are the months with less rain.
ROUTE A: Toreadora Lake & Polylepis Forest
Begin at the Toreadora Lake (3920mts.), hike around the Lake passing by high-altitude grasslands between spongy and firmer ground until you reach a small Polylepis forest, also known as “paper tree” due to their shedding of thin strips of bark, which prevents parasites from invading the tree trunks.
Also enjoy wonderful views of the Lake compound from San Luis Hill. Here are some good bird-watching possibilities.
Highest Point: 4100mts.
Lowest Point: 3920mts.
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Tour duration: 1 to 2 hours depending on trail and passengers’ physical conditions.
ROUTE B: Tres Cruces Hill & the Historic Trail
This hike begins at the foothills of the “Tres Cruces” (Three Crosses) Hill and is also known as the “Historic Trail” as an introduction or a short version of the Inca Trail passing through ancient trails. Hike through paramo landscapes with beautiful views of the Togllacococha and Larga Lakes; if enough time, you can continue towards the Luspa Lake & Cascade
Highest Point: 4200mts.
Lowest Point: 3770mts.
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Tour duration: 6 to 7 hours depending on trail and passengers’ physical conditions.
ROUTE C: Luspa & Canutillos Lakes Trail
This exhilarating hike begins at the Luspa Lake overlook; hike to Canutillos and Mangacocha Lakes passing by the “Ciprales” (high Cypress trees) Forrest until Osohuaycu Lake.
Highest Point: 4220mts.
Lowest Point: 3875mts.
Difficulty: Experienced
Tour duration: 8 to 10 hours depending on trail and passengers’ physical conditions.
What to Bring:
Warm waterproof clothing, bottled water, sun-block, comfortable waterproof hiking shoes, gloves, sunglasses, hat or cap and calorie rich snacks or chocolates; avoid overexertion and walk slowly until properly acclimatized.
Important:
Route’s itineraries can be modified upon arrangements with the guide on-site and are also subject to weather and trail conditions.
Note:
Route A & B can be complemented with a visit to the Cajas National Park Interpretation Center located at Ilincocha.