CAJAS WALKING ROUTE
Cajas Route 3: Quinuas Valley
A long páramo route from the Pallcacocha lagoons through Perro Grande and Unidas toward the Quinuas sector.
The official route
ETAPA names this route Valle de Quinuas. Its route sheet describes a line through Lagunas Pallcacocha, Perro Grande and Unidas toward the Quinuas sector. The current catalogue records 8.94 km, an average altitude of 3,951 m and an estimated 6:55. Confirm the access point and the marked direction at the Toreadora control, especially in cloud or rain. ↗
- Distance
- 8.94 km
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Average altitude
- 3,951 m
- Estimated time
- 6:55 h
Landmarks in the route sheet
Lagunas Pallcacocha · Perro Grande · Unidas · sector de Quinuas
The route sheet is an older ETAPA reference for the route name and landmark order. The current web catalogue supplies the distance, altitude and estimated time above; confirm the marked line at the control before walking. ETAPA route sheet (PDF).
Access and timing
ETAPA identifies La Toreadora as the central starting area, 32 km from Cuenca. Route 4 also refers to Cerro Tres Cruces. Access, controls and marked directions can change, so confirm the day’s start and return plan with park staff before travelling.
Before you walk
- Register at the control and stay on marked routes.
- Do not start or continue a walk after 16:00.
- Take warm waterproof layers, suitable shoes, water and food for the altitude.
- Do not enter or swim in the lakes; ask the control about conditions and restrictions.