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Overview
The area surrounding the well-known market town of Otavalo in Imbabura province is home to a number of striking lakes and lagoons. Set in against the stunning backdrop of the high Andean farmlands, these lakes are the reason Imbabura is commonly known as the "lake province" and are excellent destinations for a variety of recreational activities, including horseback riding, mountain biking, canoeing, kayaking, hiking and trekking, and camping. Another attractive option is a relaxing stay in one of the several nearby inns and haciendas. There are four main spots to visit: Lago San Pablo, Lago Yahuarcocha, Laguna de Cuicocha, and the group of lagoons known collectively as the Lagunas de Mojanda.
San Pablo Lake
Lago San Pablo is Ecuador´s largest lake and a popular weekend getaway destination for both locals and foreigners looking for a more tranquil alternative to nearby Otavalo. The village of San Pablo del Lago sits on the southeast end of the lake, and the the rest of shoreline consists of small indigenous villages, haciendas, and a rolling vista of fertile green farming lands. A paved road encircles the entire lake. Visitors can hike up the nearby Imbabura Volcano, mountain bike the surrounding trails, take short strolls along the lake shore or go horse riding. Many of the hotel and inn options offer windsurfing boards, kayaks, and motor boats for tours, along with lodgings featuring charming traditional decor and delicious local cuisine. People frecuently choose to stay in this area while visiting Otavalo and the surrounding attractions, since it provides a quieter, more relaxing experience while still being convenient and easy to reach. San Pablo is especially well known for the unique and attractive lodging choices it provides, with options from more basic "hosterias" to beautiful historic haciendas. The area in general is known for its charm and friendliness, meaning that wherever you should choose to stay, you are guaranteed a to be greeted with a warm welcome.
The main haciendas in the San Pablo area Cusin, Zuleta, Casa Mojanda, Cabañas del Lago, and Zuleta among others. All of them offer national and international food with excellent quality and flavor.
Lago San Pablo is Ecuador´s largest lake and a popular weekend getaway destination...
Yaguarcocha lake
The Laguna Yaguarcocha is located approximately half an hour from the town of Ibarra on the Panamericana. The name of the lake in Quichua means "lake of blood", a name which it obstensibly obtained when a famous battle betwen the Cara and the Incas stained the waters a deep red color. A racetrack surrounds the lake, which is used during festivals, competitions and special events. It is possible to walk to the lake from Ibarra, heading on Oviedo street east to the edge of town, crossing the river and continuing north along the top of the hill. Following this route, you will be rewarded by fantastic views of Ibarra and the village of Yahuarcocha on the edge of the lake. There is also frequent bus service from Ibarra to the village and the lake.
Cuicocha Lake
Laguna de Cuicocha is a stunning dark water lagoon nestled in a collapsed volcanic crater, located approximately 18km west of the small leather-working town of Cotacachi in the Cotacachi Cayapas Ecological Reserve. About 3km wide and 200m deep, the lake features striking cone-shaped islands, which shot up as a result of later volcanic erruptions. The best way to enjoy the breathtaking sweep of this panoramic landscape is by hiking the trail which skirts the perimeter of the lake. The path follows the shoreline, starting near the reserve´s entrance booth and circling the lake counterclockwise, a hike of around six hours. Numerous hummingbirds and a variety of flowers and orchids add brilliant splashes of color to the scenery, and if the mist clears it is posible to see the peak of the Cotachachi volcano. Boats are also available to take visitors on short trips around the islands. In order to reach the reserve and the laguna, take a pick-up truck (camioneta) from Cuicocha, or catch a Transportes Cotacachi bus from Otavalo or Cotacachi to Quiroga, where you can hire a taxi from the main plaza.
Mojanda Lagoons
Lagunas de Mojanda consists of three crater lakes, the clear-watered Caricocha (Man Lake, also the largest of the lagoons), and Huarmicocha (Woman Lake), and the dark-watered Yanacocha (Black Lake). The lakes are located at roughly 3800m above sea level, surrounded by rolling paramos and over looked by the nearby Fuya-Fuya volcano (4 250 m). Located approximately 17km south of Otavalo, the area acquired protected status in 2002 and has since become a popular destination for camping and hiking. The hike up Fuya-Fuya is of only moderate difficulty and takes around two hours, so it is a favored activity for many tourists. There are three paths that wind their way up the mountain, and the view from the top is well worth it: from the summit you can see the three lakes, nearby forests and communities, and on a clear day, spot the peaks of the Imbabura, Cotacachi and Cayambe volcanoes in the distance. Visitors have a number of area lodging options, with Casa Mojanda and La Luna being two consistent favorites. The lovely eco lodge of Casa Mojanda offers guests cheerful cottages equipped with electric heaters and hotwater bathrooms; some have fireplaces. The grounds include horse stables, an organic garden, and a library and mini theatre. Visitors can book tours and guided hikes to nearby attractions, including the Lagunas, and it is possible to rent mountain bikes and kayaks. Rates include breakfast and dinner with fresh, organic ingredients from the garden, along with a guided hike to waterfalls.
For those planning a visit to the Imbabura region, a trip to admire the area lakes, whether for a few hours or for several days, is an essential part of the experience.
