Mojanda Mountain
Volcanic complex in Ecuador with high-altitude crater lakes
Mojanda is an Andean volcano near Otavalo with three crater lakes; hikers and birdwatchers visit for highland walks, panoramic views of Imbabura and local indigenous markets.
Mojanda at a Glance#
Tips for Visiting Mojanda#
- Start hikes before mid-morning-Mojanda's lagoons and crater ridges are often clearest and least windy in the early hours, while clouds and wind build up later in the day.
- Approach Mojanda from Otavalo or the nearby Pan‑American corridor and consider arranging transport or a local guide in Otavalo; guides know the best trailheads and less-used routes around the three crater lakes.
- Allow time to acclimatize in Otavalo or at lower elevation before attempting longer or faster hikes-Mojanda sits at high altitude and shortness of breath and fatigue are common for unacclimatized visitors.
Best Time to Visit Mojanda#
Visit during the dry season (roughly June-September) for the clearest views and most reliable hiking conditions at high elevation.
Dry season (clearer skies)
June-September · -2 to 12°C (typical highland temps)
Cool daytime temperatures, cold nights and much clearer skies - the best window for hiking and wide views of the lakes and volcanoes.
Wet season (cloudier, wetter)
October-May · 2-15°C
More frequent rain and cloud cover that can obscure views; trails can be muddy and nights remain cold.
Weather & Climate near Mojanda#
Climate
Mojanda's climate is classified as Tundra - Tundra climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 1°C to 12°C. Moderate rainfall (980 mm/year).
Air Quality:
AQI 54
Moderate
Temperature & Rainfall
Temperature Range
12°
Warmest Month
1°
Coldest Month
Monthly Conditions
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | 2° - 12° | 5° | 88 mm | - | - | 3.3 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | 2° - 12° | 5° | 89 mm | - | - | 3.1 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | 2° - 12° | 5° | 108 mm | - | - | 2.9 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | 3° - 12° | 5° | 110 mm | - | - | 2.9 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | 2° - 12° | 5° | 81 mm | - | - | 3.0 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | 2° - 12° | 4° | 69 mm | - | - | 3.7 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 1° - 12° | 3° | 68 mm | - | - | 4.4 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 1° - 12° | 3° | 51 mm | - | - | 4.3 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 1° - 12° | 4° | 51 mm | - | - | 3.7 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | 2° - 12° | 5° | 90 mm | - | - | 3.1 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | 2° - 12° | 5° | 100 mm | - | - | 3.0 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | 2° - 12° | 5° | 75 mm | - | - | 3.2 m/s | - | - |