Lake Mojanda
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Mojanda Lakes Ecuador

4.7
·602 reviews·, Ecuador

High-altitude caldera lakes offering stunning Andean vistas, popular for hiking, camping, and connecting with nature.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Dry season mornings

Clear skies, best views

CrowdLow
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Lake Mojanda

Mojanda Lakes Ecuador

Best Time

Dry season mornings

Clear skies, best views

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

High-altitude caldera lakes offering stunning Andean vistas, popular for hiking, camping, and connecting with nature.

4.7
(602 reviews)

"Fantastic place, peaceful and beautiful with excellent hiking and amazing views!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🧥 Pack Layers!

High altitude means cool winds. Bring a jacket, even on sunny days!

🚗 Rough Road Ahead

The road to the lakes needs maintenance. A 4x4 is recommended for a smoother ride.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Laguna Grande

Laguna Grande

Main lake

The largest and most accessible of the Mojanda Lakes, perfect for serene views and photography.

Fuya-Fuya Summit

Fuya-Fuya Summit

Fuya-Fuya Volcano

Conquer this peak for breathtaking panoramic views of the lakes and surrounding Andean landscape.

Laguna Karikucha

Laguna Karikucha

Second lake

A smaller, often quieter lake offering a peaceful escape and opportunities for birdwatching.

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Planning Your Visit

Altitude & Weather Preparedness

Mojanda Lakes sit at a high altitude, so be ready for cooler temperatures and potential wind, even on sunny days. Pack layers, including a jacket, as the weather can change quickly. The road can be rough, so a 4x4 vehicle is recommended if you're driving yourself.

Hiking & Supplies

This is a prime spot for hiking, especially the trek up Fuya-Fuya. If you plan on a long hike or camping, bring ample food and water, as amenities are scarce. Cell service can be spotty, so download offline maps.

Best Times

When
Dry season mornings
Why
Clear skies, best views
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Rainy season afternoons
Why
Dramatic skies
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Conoce Mojanda💚🇪🇨 Es el Complejo Lacustre - Turístico mejor conservado y el mas cercano a Quito. . . . . . . . . . . . #ecuador #paismegadiverso #turismoecuador #mojandalakes #mojanda #turismo #reels #viral #nature #naturelovers #trekking #fuyafuya #travelphotography #trip #latinoamerica #foryou #fyp #instagram #nextstop #tabacundo #PedroMoncayo #capitalmundialdelarosa #ecologico #ecolodge #lake...
edisonmcm
138 likes • 4.8K views

🧥 Pack Layers!

High altitude means cool winds. Bring a jacket, even on sunny days! Reddit

🚗 Rough Road Ahead

The road to the lakes needs maintenance. A 4x4 is recommended for a smoother ride. Reddit

Imbabura tierra de lagos y volcanes. Complejo volcánico Mojanda senderismo al Fuya-Fuya con amigos de Francia, una ruta nivel fácil Imbabura a beautiful province of lakes & Volcanoes in Ecuador 🇪🇨 . Mojanda volcanic complex trekking to Fuya-Fuya volcano with friends of France Anne-Laure Fakiroff #turismorural #hospedajerural #hospedajefamiliar #naturelovers #experienciasunicas #volcanoes #trekki...
casadeluisotavalo
9 likes • 68 views
Me encanta la naturaleza❤️, Es la Laguna de Mojanda ubicada en Ecuador. #ecuador #lakes #laguna #mojanda #landscapes #naturelovers #dancing #agradecidadedios #meditacion #relax #happy #funny
jessicamargo_jlcv
73 likes • 952 views

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

No stores around for long hikes. Stay hydrated! Reddit

🥾 Hiking Boots Essential

Trails can be steep and uneven. Good footwear is key for exploring. TikTok

Laguna Mojanda, Ecuador #mojanda #mojandaecuador #ecuador #travelecuador #tourismecuador #lakes #laguna #lagoon #ecuador #goprohero #gopro #goprode @goprode @rwthaachenuniversity #rwthaachenuniversity #rwthaachen #unigöttingen
lisi_perez_biogeo
17 likes • 374 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🧥 Pack Layers!

High altitude means cool winds. Bring a jacket, even on sunny days! Reddit

🚗 Rough Road Ahead

The road to the lakes needs maintenance. A 4x4 is recommended for a smoother ride. Reddit

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

No stores around for long hikes. Stay hydrated! Reddit

🥾 Hiking Boots Essential

Trails can be steep and uneven. Good footwear is key for exploring. TikTok

📸 Capture the Views

Stunning landscapes await! Don't forget your camera for those epic shots. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(602 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the peaceful and beautiful scenery at Mojanda Lakes, often comparing it to stunning mountain landscapes. The hiking opportunities, especially to Fuya-Fuya, and the camping experience are frequently praised. However, many note that the road leading to the lakes requires significant maintenance and can be challenging to navigate.

"Fantastic place.

Peaceful and beautiful!

The road to the lagoon needs maintenance!!!"

Mansour Mansouri

"Excellent hiking, amazing views, camping areas."

Orang K.S

"Great place for camping and hiking. Not to many people, which is great for communication with nature. If you're planning a long hike make sure to have enough food and water since there are no store around."

Mykhailo Lahazhevskyi

What People Like

Peaceful and beautiful scenery
Excellent hiking and views
Great camping experience

What People Dislike

Rough road condition

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way is by car, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours. You can rent a car or hire a taxi. Public transport is limited, but you might be able to take a bus to Tabacundo and then a taxi. The road can be rough, so a 4x4 is ideal. InstagramReddit

Yes, it's a popular day trip destination from Quito. You can drive up in the morning, hike, and return in the afternoon. Instagram

The road can be quite rough and unpaved in sections, especially after rain. It's advisable to have a vehicle with good clearance or a 4x4. Reddit

Yes, many tour operators in Quito offer day trips to Mojanda Lakes, often combined with other nearby attractions. This can be a convenient option if you don't want to drive. Instagram

Direct buses are not common. You would typically need to take a bus to Tabacundo and then arrange local transport, like a taxi, to the lakes. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Mojanda Lakes is generally considered a natural attraction with free entry, especially for day visitors. However, some sources mention small fees for parking or specific facilities, particularly if you plan to camp. Instagram

As a natural park area, Mojanda Lakes doesn't have strict opening or closing hours. It's accessible during daylight hours. However, it's best to visit during daylight for safety and visibility, especially for hiking. Instagram

No, advance booking is not required for general access to Mojanda Lakes. It's a natural area, and you can typically visit spontaneously. Instagram

While generally open, it's always good practice to respect the natural environment. Avoid leaving trash, stay on marked trails where available, and be mindful of the weather conditions. Instagram

Yes, camping is a popular activity at Mojanda Lakes. There are designated areas, and it's advisable to be prepared for cold nights and bring all necessary camping gear. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The most famous hike is to the summit of Fuya-Fuya volcano, offering incredible views. There are also loop trails around the lakes, suitable for various fitness levels. TikTokReddit

Mojanda Lakes is situated at a high altitude, around 3,700 meters (12,140 feet) above sea level. Be prepared for the effects of altitude. Reddit

You might spot various bird species, and if you're lucky, some small mammals native to the páramo ecosystem. Instagram

Absolutely! The lakes, volcanic landscapes, and surrounding páramo offer stunning photographic opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset. TikTokInstagram

Dress in layers! Include a waterproof and windproof jacket, warm clothing, and sturdy hiking shoes. The weather can change rapidly. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are very limited food options directly at the lakes. Some sources mention a small place to cook or eat, but it's best to bring your own food and snacks, especially for longer visits or hikes. Reddit

Pack high-energy snacks like trail mix, fruits, and sandwiches. Bring plenty of water, as there are no potable water sources available. Reddit

Yes, picnicking is a great way to enjoy the scenery. Just be sure to pack out everything you pack in to keep the area clean. Reddit

Yes, Tabacundo is the closest town and offers more dining options. It's a good place to stock up on supplies before heading to the lakes. Instagram

While not directly at the lakes, in the nearby town of Tabacundo, you might find local Ecuadorian cuisine. 'Colada de mora' (blackberry soup) is mentioned in relation to the area. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and beautiful colors. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly magical. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures. Instagram

The summit of Fuya-Fuya offers unparalleled panoramic views. The shores of Laguna Grande also provide excellent vantage points for capturing the lakes and surrounding páramo. Instagram

Don't shy away from rainy or foggy days! These conditions can create dramatic and atmospheric photos. Use a rain cover for your camera and embrace the moody ambiance. Instagram

The reflections of the mountains in the lakes, the vast páramo landscape, the volcanic peaks, and the changing sky are all popular subjects. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mojanda Lakes can be a fun adventure for families, but requires careful planning due to the altitude and remoteness. The easier trails around Laguna Grande are suitable for younger children, offering beautiful views without strenuous climbs. Pack plenty of snacks and warm clothing, as kids can get cold quickly at this elevation. Reddit

Consider a shorter hike or simply enjoying a picnic by the lake. If driving, be mindful of the rough road conditions. For a more comfortable experience, look into guided tours that can handle transportation and provide a more structured itinerary for families. Instagram

🎒 Budget Travelers

Mojanda Lakes is an excellent destination for budget travelers as general access is free. The main costs will be transportation and food. If you have a car, you can save significantly on transport. Instagram Camping is a very affordable accommodation option, allowing you to stay overnight and enjoy the natural beauty without hotel expenses. Reddit

Bring all your own food and water to avoid purchasing expensive items in tourist areas. If you're relying on public transport, factor in the cost of buses to Tabacundo and then taxis to the lakes. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Solo Adventurers

Solo travelers will find Mojanda Lakes a rewarding and relatively safe destination for exploration. The hiking opportunities, particularly the climb up Fuya-Fuya, offer a great sense of accomplishment. TikTok The peaceful atmosphere is ideal for reflection and connecting with nature. Instagram

It's advisable to inform someone of your itinerary, especially if you plan on extensive hiking. While cell service can be spotty, having a charged phone and perhaps a portable charger is recommended. Be prepared for varying weather conditions and carry sufficient supplies. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Hiking Adventures at Mojanda Lakes

Mojanda Lakes is a hiker's paradise, offering trails for various skill levels. The most iconic trek is the ascent of Fuya-Fuya, a dormant volcano that rewards climbers with spectacular 360-degree views of the surrounding lakes and the Andean highlands. This hike is considered moderately challenging and can take a few hours round trip, depending on your pace. TikTok

For a less strenuous experience, you can opt for loop hikes around the lakes, such as Laguna Grande and Laguna Karikucha. These trails offer beautiful scenery and a chance to immerse yourself in the unique páramo ecosystem. Remember that the altitude can make even moderate hikes feel more demanding, so pace yourself and stay hydrated. Reddit

When planning your hikes, always check the weather forecast, as conditions can change rapidly. It's advisable to carry a map, compass, or GPS device, and inform someone of your hiking plans. Sturdy hiking boots are essential due to the uneven terrain. Reddit

Camping Under the Stars

Camping at Mojanda Lakes offers a truly immersive nature experience. The serene environment, far from city lights, provides an excellent opportunity for stargazing. Many visitors choose to camp near Laguna Grande to enjoy the picturesque surroundings. Reddit

Be prepared for cold nights, as the altitude means temperatures can drop significantly after sunset. Essential camping gear includes warm sleeping bags, tents, and layers of clothing. It's also crucial to bring all your food and water, as there are no shops or facilities available at the campsite. Reddit

Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles: pack out all your trash, minimize campfire impact (if allowed and safe), and respect the natural environment. This ensures the preservation of Mojanda's beauty for future visitors. Reddit

Photography Opportunities

Mojanda Lakes is a dream destination for photographers, offering a diverse range of scenic beauty. The caldera lakes, nestled amidst rolling páramo grasses, create stunning reflections, especially during the calm morning hours. The volcanic peaks, including Fuya-Fuya, provide dramatic backdrops that change with the light. Instagram

Don't be deterred by cloudy or rainy weather; these conditions can add a unique, moody atmosphere to your shots. The mist rolling over the lakes and mountains can be incredibly photogenic. Instagram Consider visiting during the 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – for the most dramatic lighting and vibrant colors. Instagram

When visiting, a wide-angle lens is perfect for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or spotting wildlife. A tripod can be beneficial for low-light photography or capturing the stillness of the water. Instagram

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