Cajas National Park, "Parque Nacional Cajas" in Spanish, is a world heritage site just outside of Cuenca, capital of the province of Azuay. The park area is 285.4 km2 (110.2 sq mi.) Due to the altitude - 10,354 to 14600 feet (3,156 to 4,450 meters) above sea level - it is really chilly in the park. Cajas National Park has attracted many travelers from Ecuador and around the world. There are more than 100 species of birds. Plus features over 230 glacial lakes and lagoons. In fact, lakes were formed during the ice age when large accumulation of snow formed large blocks of ice that slowly pushed down a hill.
Cajas is a beautifully stunning place to hike through. In the lagoons, there is a vast amount of fish, especially trout. The "tres cruces" lookout point is a great place to take panoramic pictures. The park is located about 30 km west of Cuenca. To access the area by car, take the road from Cuenca to the coast: Cuenca-Molleturo-Naranjal. You may also travel by bus, cost $2, take the "Cooperativa de Transporte Occidental" bus from "Terminal Terrestre" or "Feria Libre".
