Laguna de Mojanda | Warning

September 2nd, 2023 by thevaninalplanet

We stayed here for one night on a Thursday night and experienced an attempted robbery. It seems that many people stay here without issue, but we did want to warn others so they could stay vigilant. While there were other people when we arrived to the lake, by the time it was sunset we were one of two groups still in the area. We were parked out of site from the main road up on the grassy camping area to the right when you drive in from Otavalo. Right when it was getting dark, we were cooking with the van door open and saw the other group walk by, we suspected they were looking for a camp site and said hello. Around 9pm, we got a knock on the window. We didn't open the door, just rolled down the window, and one of the men asked for a lighter and paper which we gave him. I could have sworn I heard him pull on the handle of the door before knocking, but my partner didn't hear it and after he just asked for a lighter and left, I figured I was being paranoid. At 10pm, we heard a car, and decided to peak out the windows. A small red 4x4 vehicle was pulling up right in front of our van, appearing to try to block us in, with his headlights on bright. Three people stepped out of the vehicle with facemasks on and surrounded the van, one of them started knocking on the window and yelling something we couldn't understand. We turned on the van and our headlights and started to back up the van. It seems they weren't expecting this so they all got back in the 4x4 and sped off down the mountain. It is a really gorgeous spot, and I think that if the place had more campers we would have been fine. There is just no service and one way in/out so be VERY careful if you are the only ones there.

November 29th, 2018 by tyler7099

This place is amazing! Can’t say enough good things. The Fuya Fuya hike is a must do, particularly if it’s a clear morning you will have views of Cotopaxi, Cayumbe, Anitasana...We visited during the week and it was perfectly quiet at night.

February 4th, 2018 by twoyearsnotice

Great spot. Up the little hill on right, to grass patch gives you some privacy from day trippers. Saw people camping on other side of the lake (just follow “high road” around.) There were several parties of locals hanging out until around dark, and they all seemed friendly.

On our way out, saw a bunch of glass on the cobblestones that looked like it **may** have been from a smash and grab, so be aware.

June 22nd, 2017 by instagram.com/wayfaring5

Spent 2 nights wild camping here. FREE. No amenities accept fresh water from the lake. Right by the lake was a bit flooded but nice flat spot if you stay right and go about 150m up the road. Did a walk to Fuya-Fuya. Leave early because low clouds roll in fast and by noon you won't see anything. Amazing view up top 360 degrees. We started 6:30am and finished 11:30am but we had 3 kids in tow - leave at least 3 hrs if you're fit and 4 hours if you want to leisurely enjoy the walk and surrounds. 500m ascent from 3700m to 4200m. Enjoy!!

May 2nd, 2017 by Overland The Americas

Grassy pullout a few meters from the road. It seemed warmer than the place right in front of the lake. Beautiful lake and great hike to Fuya Fuya.