Sunset walk beside a volcanic lake

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.