THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Head into the high Andean páramo on a full‑day trek from Cuenca to Cucheros and Mamamag lagoons. Expect glacial basins, pre‑Columbian trail remnants and close wildlife encounters with a qualified guide.
Head into the high Andean páramo on a full‑day trek from Cuenca to Cucheros and Mamamag lagoons. Expect glacial basins, pre‑Columbian trail remnants and close wildlife encounters with a qualified guide.
A thin air and cool wind meet you on the ascent out of Cuenca as the bus drops hikers at Caballo Shayana and the high páramo opens—rocky ridges, peat bogs and black water lagoons mirror a slate sky. The group follows a ridge toward Cucheros Lagoon, then climbs forty minutes to the Cuchilla where the Burines Valley falls away in layered basins of water and scrub. Streams dare you to pick your footing; polylepis pockets offer shelter and a sudden chorus of hummingbirds.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by BM TOURS SA · Cuenca, Azuay
A thin air and cool wind meet you on the ascent out of Cuenca as the bus drops hikers at Caballo Shayana and the high páramo opens—rocky ridges, peat bogs and black water lagoons mirror a slate sky. The group follows a ridge toward Cucheros Lagoon, then climbs forty minutes to the Cuchilla where the Burines Valley falls away in layered basins of water and scrub. Streams dare you to pick your footing; polylepis pockets offer shelter and a sudden chorus of hummingbirds.
Cajas shapes the region’s hydrology—its glacially sculpted basins and moraines feed rivers that supply Cuenca. The route crosses Camino Real del Inca traces, a reminder that pre‑Columbian routes threaded these highlands long before modern trails. Local culture converges at the nearby open‑air sanctuary of Virgen del Cajas, a continuing site of pilgrimage for communities who live below the park. Geologically, the park is a high Andean landscape of páramo, shaped by glaciers and volcanic bedrock, now home to specialized flora and fauna including condors and coatis.
Practically, expect 6–8 hours on mixed terrain: steep ascents, boggy patches, rocky scrambles and exposed ridge walking. Bring layered clothing, sturdy waterproof boots and 2–3 liters of water. Guides typically include park fees, lunch and round‑trip transport from Cuenca; they can supply rubber boots or ponchos with advance notice. Pace early to avoid afternoon wind and bring cash for small donations or local snacks in Cuenca after the return. Respect fragile bogs: stay on established paths and pack out all waste.
The route is moderate: expect steady climbs, uneven terrain and 6–8 hours on trail; a moderate fitness level is recommended.
Yes—this tour typically includes national park fees, round‑trip transport from Cuenca and a boxed or local lunch.
Common sightings include Andean condors, giant hummingbirds and coatis; early mornings and ridge viewpoints improve chances.
Guides can supply rubber boots or ponchos if requested with at least 48 hours’ notice; standard hiking gear is expected from participants.
BM TOURS SA operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
A thin air and cool wind meet you on the ascent out of Cuenca as the bus drops hikers at Caballo Shayana and the high páramo opens—rocky ridges, peat bogs and black water lagoons mirror a slate sky. The group follows a ridge toward Cucheros Lagoon, then climbs forty minutes to the Cuchilla where the Burines Valley falls away in layered basins of water and scrub. Streams dare you to pick your footing; polylepis pockets offer shelter and a sudden chorus of hummingbirds.
A thin air and cool wind meet you on the ascent out of Cuenca as the bus drops hikers at Caballo Shayana and the high páramo opens—rocky ridges, peat bogs and black water lagoons mirror a slate sky. The group follows a ridge toward Cucheros Lagoon, then climbs forty minutes to the Cuchilla where the Burines Valley falls away in layered basins of water and scrub. Streams dare you to pick your footing; polylepis pockets offer shelter and a sudden chorus of hummingbirds.
Cajas shapes the region’s hydrology—its glacially sculpted basins and moraines feed rivers that supply Cuenca. The route crosses Camino Real del Inca traces, a reminder that pre‑Columbian routes threaded these highlands long before modern trails. Local culture converges at the nearby open‑air sanctuary of Virgen del Cajas, a continuing site of pilgrimage for communities who live below the park. Geologically, the park is a high Andean landscape of páramo, shaped by glaciers and volcanic bedrock, now home to specialized flora and fauna including condors and coatis.
Practically, expect 6–8 hours on mixed terrain: steep ascents, boggy patches, rocky scrambles and exposed ridge walking. Bring layered clothing, sturdy waterproof boots and 2–3 liters of water. Guides typically include park fees, lunch and round‑trip transport from Cuenca; they can supply rubber boots or ponchos with advance notice. Pace early to avoid afternoon wind and bring cash for small donations or local snacks in Cuenca after the return. Respect fragile bogs: stay on established paths and pack out all waste.