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Mojanda Complex
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Mountain
The Mojanda Complex is an impressive volcanic massif in the northern Andes of Ecuador, near the city of Otavalo. It consists of two extinct volcanoes, Mojanda and Fuya Fuya, with the latter being the highest point at 4,263 meters. The heart of the complex is formed by three pretty crater lakes: Caricocha (Male Lake), Huarmicocha (Female Lake), and Yanacocha (Black Lake), situated at an altitude of about 3,720 meters. The caldera was created by a massive collapse of the original Mojanda volcano approximately 200,000 years ago. The area is covered by expansive páramo grasslands and serves as a vital watershed for Imbabura Province. The region is not only ecologically valuable but also holds deep cultural significance for the local Kichwa communities, who revere the lakes as sacred sites.
- Location: Ecuador
- Top sights: Mulapotrero · Loma Mojanda · Mojanda Lakes
- Nearby: Atuntaqui (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 17 | 17 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 17 | 18 | 18 | 17 | 17 | 17 |
| Rain mm | 139 | 143 | 176 | 177 | 123 | 58 | 34 | 25 | 38 | 76 | 90 | 100 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The Mojanda Complex is best accessed from Otavalo via a scenic, partially paved road that leads directly to the high-altitude crater lakes.
Best season
A visit is recommended during the dry season from June to September to enjoy clear views of the lagoons and the surrounding peaks like Fuya Fuya.
Terrain & paths
The paths around the lakes are relatively flat, while the climb to Fuya Fuya is steep, involving slippery grass and rocky sections that require careful footing.
What to bring
Hikers will need warm, windproof clothing for the chilly altitudes, sturdy footwear, and adequate sun protection for the intense Andean radiation.
Parking
There are unpaved parking areas near the shores of Laguna Grande (Caricocha) where visitors can leave their vehicles before starting their hikes.
Safety
Weather conditions can change very rapidly and fog can severely limit visibility; hikers should always stay on the paths and watch for signs of altitude sickness.
Time needed
A simple walk around the lakes takes about 1 to 2 hours, while climbing the Fuya Fuya summit typically takes between 3 and 5 hours.
Geography
Facts
- Highest point is Fuya Fuya at 4,263 m
- Contains three main lakes within the caldera
- Caricocha is the largest of the three lakes
- Formed approximately 200,000 years ago
- Sacred site for the Kichwa people
- Located near the city of Otavalo
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Mojanda Complex (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Mojanda complex?
It is an inactive volcanic complex with three beautiful crater lakes at over 3,700m altitude.
How do you reach the lakes?
From Otavalo, you can take a pick-up taxi; the ride takes about 45 minutes.
Can you go hiking there?
Yes, the hike to the summit of Fuya Fuya features a spectacular view of the lakes.
Is camping allowed?
Wild camping is possible, but prepare for very cold nights.
Are there food facilities?
No, there are no restaurants; bring plenty of water and food with you.
Mojanda Complex: where is it located?
Mojanda Complex is located in Ecuador.
Mojanda Complex: what is there to see?
Highlights include Mulapotrero, Loma Mojanda, Mojanda Lakes.
Mojanda Complex: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Mojanda Complex: why is it worth visiting?
The Mojanda Complex is an impressive volcanic massif in the northern Andes of Ecuador, near the city of Otavalo.
Explore with Plizio
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Nearby cities
Ibarra
The white city is appreciated for its colonial white facades and pleasant climate.
Otavalo
The indigenous capital of Ecuador, known worldwide for its colorful craft market.
Atuntaqui
The textile capital of Ecuador, where craftsmanship and industry meet.
Cotacachi
A peaceful Andean town globally famous for its fine leather goods and stunning crater lake.
Cayambe
An agricultural city at the foot of the mighty Cayambe volcano, known for its flowers and cheeses.
Sangolquí
A quiet suburb of Quito, famous for its traditional pork dish Hornado.
History & landmarks
🗺️
Basilica of the Virgin of El Quinche
A monumental Catholic sanctuary where the miraculous wooden statue of the patron saint of Ecuador is venerated.
Cross of Ilaló
A monumental iron cross on the extinct Ilaló volcano, illuminated at night and visible from the Tumbaco and Los Chillos valleys.
Cyclist Monument
A stylized sculpture at a busy intersection in Quito, dedicated to eco-friendly transportation.
Rodrigo Paz Delgado Stadium
This modern stadium, colloquially called Casa Blanca, is home to LDU Quito and often hosts the national team.
La Mariscal Artisanal Market
A vibrant market in Quito where local artisans sell colorful textiles, jewelry, and traditional souvenirs.
Temple of the Fatherland
A massive museum and monument on the slopes of Pichincha, where the decisive battle for Ecuador's independence took place.
Sanctuary of the Virgin of Holy Water
A neo-Gothic Catholic basilica in the spa town of Baños, attracting pilgrims from all over South America.
Nature
Lake San Pablo
Lake San Pablo is Ecuador's largest lake, situated at the foot of the majestic Imbabura Volcano near Otavalo.
Cuicocha Lake
Cuicocha is a stunning crater lake at the foot of the Cotacachi Volcano, featuring two small islands in its center.
Yahuarcocha
Yahuarcocha is a historically significant lake surrounded by legends of a great battle, now featuring a famous auto racing track.
More places
Parque Cóndor
A rescue center for birds of prey near Otavalo, dedicated to the protection of the Andean condor.
Imbabura Volcano
A dormant stratovolcano towering majestically over Lake San Pablo in the northern Andes.
Cotacachi Cayapas Ecological Reserve
This vast reserve stretches from the Andes to the Pacific and offers an enormous diversity of species.
Cochasquí
An archaeological park featuring pyramids and burial mounds of the pre-Inca Quitu-Cara culture.
🗺️
Pucará de Quitoloma
A historical Inca military fortress in the northern Andes of Ecuador.
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Guayllabamba Zoo
The largest zoo in the country near Quito, presenting a large variety of native and exotic animals.
Pronaca Meat Processing
One of Ecuador's largest food producers, focusing on poultry and pork processing.
Sincholagua
An inactive volcano southeast of Quito featuring a prominent, steep rocky summit.