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Otavalo and the northern highlands: Sunset walk beside a volcanic lake

Sunset walk beside a volcanic lake

Difficulty rating:

Easy

The serenity of Mojanda's three crater lakes belies their volcanic origins. They were formed by the simultaneous eruption of the two volcanoes that now silently keep watch over the lakes, offering an extremely scenic vantage point from which to admire an Andean sunset reflected in their waters.

Despite their height (around 4,200m) the two volcanoes can be climbed with relative ease provided you have acclimatised properly. It's a 3-hour hike, starting at the largest lake and following a trail upwards through the high-altitude páramo.

This magical area is just a 30 minute drive from Otavalo and the town's famous craft, food and livestock market.

View all things to do nearby

Slow train

Take the Tren de la Libertad

Otavalo Indians

Visit Otavalo market

Cuicocha volcanic lake walk

Horses in the Andies

Horse riding Ecuador's Andes

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