Cuenca may be Ecuador's third-largest city, but if you venture just a few miles outside the city center, you'll find yourself at one with nature. For the best hiking in the area, head to Cajas National Park. Hualambari Tours (tel. 07/2848-768; www.hualambari.com) and TerraDiversa (tel. 07/2823-782; www.terradiversa.com) both offer horseback-riding and mountain-biking expeditions through the outlying mountains and forests, stopping at small towns along the way. Day trips run $40 to $80 (£22-£44) per person, including lunch, equipment, and transportation. Multiday trips and expeditions can also be arranged.
