Wildlife viewing amid dramatic volcanic peaks
Cuenca and El Cajas
The Cajas National Park dominates the highlands of Ecuador and is rich in wildlife. Many of the species found here are endemic, including the majestic Andean condor. Combine the park with a stay in Spanish-influenced Cuenca.
The Cajas National Park dominates the highlands of Ecuador and is rich in wildlife. Many of the species found here are endemic, including the majestic Andean condor. Combine the park with a stay in Spanish-influenced Cuenca.
Why Cuenca and El Cajas?
Cuenca and the Cajas National Park are in south-central Ecuador within the Avenue of Volcanoes. The Pan-American Highway – one of the greatest road trips on Earth – cuts through this region, but it’s so vast you can quickly escape into the wilderness. Cajas National Park is filled with jagged peaks and turquoise lagoons, and most of the park lies between 3,100 and 4,450 metres above sea level. Plants are not abundant at this altitude, but you can spot fantastic wildlife including condor, puma, coati and the Cajas water mouse.
The city of Cuenca makes an excellent base for exploring the park, and its historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the eclectic mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, then contrast it with Cañar, Ecuador’s largest Inca ruins site located just outside the city.
The city of Cuenca makes an excellent base for exploring the park, and its historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the eclectic mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, then contrast it with Cañar, Ecuador’s largest Inca ruins site located just outside the city.
- A beautiful national park within the Avenue of Volcanoes.
- Admire brilliant wildlife including puma and coati.
- Exceptional hiking around mountains and lakes.
- Culture and heritage sites in Cuenca.
- Ecuador’s largest Inca ruins.
- Comfortable accommodations in a historic setting.
Best Top Places to Stay in Cuenca and El Cajas
Hotel Cruz del Vado
With bags of style, plenty of history and an excellent city-centre location, Hotel Cruz del Vado is a perfect place to explore the charming city of Cuenca. You will love the rooftop views.
Saint Lucia Hotel
Built in 1859, Santa Lucia Hotel is one of Cuenca’s most notable buildings, having been the previous home of the provincial governor. It is the perfect place from which to venture out to see the highlights of vibrant Cuenca and return for great food and elegant ambience.
ITZA
Without doubt, the great advantage of Hotel Itza is its centrality. All the wonderful opportunities of stylish Cuenca are right on its doorstep; a fact that you will appreciate if you spend time surveying the panorama from its rooftop.
Private Journeys Tailored to You
We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been crafting the finest tailor-made holidays to the world’s wild places. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you every time.We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been crafting the finest tailor-made holidays to the world’s wild places. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you every time.
Who are Journeysmiths?
An experienced team of well-travelled individuals, passionate about crafting journeys that are as exceptional as they are personal, while maximising our positive impact on the places in which we work.
Why Travel With Us?
While the evolution of travel and technology has seen much change at Journeysmiths over the years, our fundamental beliefs about the perfect holiday have not.
Positive Impact Mission
Journeysmiths mission is to inspire and expand peoples horizons through exceptional travel experiences, while preserving the natural world for future generations.
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