Pataqui, a region in Ecuador's northern Imbabura Province, features diverse Andean landscapes characterized by volcanic formations, high-altitude lagoons, and unique paramo ecosystems. This area provides varied terrain suitable for outdoor pursuits, particularly hiking. The geography of Pataqui offers a range of elevations and natural features that support several sports like hiking.
The Pataqui region offers numerous routes for outdoor activities, with a strong focus on hiking. The landscape, defined by its Andean highlands and volcanic…
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Average rating
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People visited

4.9
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640
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
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58
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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8.88km
03:05
490m
480m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
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12
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Pataqui primarily offers opportunities for hiking. The region features diverse Andean landscapes, including volcanic formations and high-altitude lagoons, providing varied terrain for exploration. More than 600 visitors have shared their experiences, with routes averaging 4.98 out of 5 stars.
Notable hiking trails include the 9-mile (14 km) circular route around Cuicocha Lagoon, offering views of volcanoes like Cotacachi and Imbabura. The Mojanda Lakes area also provides various trails, and the ascent of Fuya Fuya volcano is a popular climb. For detailed information, consult the Hiking in Pataqui guide.
Yes, the 9-mile (14 km) circular trail around Cuicocha Lagoon is considered easy to moderate, with some steep sections. This route is accessible and offers scenic views of the crater lake and surrounding landscapes. The Mojanda Lakes area also has trails suitable for various skill levels.
The Fuya Fuya volcano, with an elevation of 13,986 feet (4,263 meters), offers a challenging climb. The ascent typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours from the Laguna Grande level. This hike is often used for acclimatization for higher mountains in the Ecuadorian Andes.
Key natural attractions include Cuicocha Lagoon, a crater lake known for its circular hiking trail and two forested islands. The Mojanda Lakes, particularly Laguna Grande de Mojanda, are nestled in a mountain landscape at the foot of the Fuya Fuya volcano. The region also features extensive paramo ecosystems and dramatic volcanic landscapes.
Pataqui is a popular destination on komoot, with 688 visitors having recorded tours. The region's routes have received an average rating of 4.98 out of 5 stars from 107 ratings. This indicates a high level of satisfaction among users exploring the area.
Komoot offers a comprehensive guide titled Hiking in Pataqui. This guide provides detailed information on various hiking routes, points of interest, and tips for exploring the region's diverse landscapes.
The official website for Pataqui is pataquioficial.wixsite.com/pataqui. This site provides information specific to the Pataqui region.
For tourism inquiries related to the broader Imbabura Province, which includes Pataqui, contact the Gobierno Provincial de Imbabura. Their phone number is +593 (6) 295 5225, and their email is grp-info@imbabura.gob.ec.
The Mojanda Lakes are situated at an altitude of approximately 12,140 feet (3,700 meters). The Fuya Fuya volcano, a prominent peak in the area, reaches an elevation of 13,986 feet (4,263 meters). Visitors should be prepared for high-altitude conditions.
Yes, a popular circular hiking trail loops around the rim of Cuicocha Lagoon. This route is approximately 9 miles (14 km) long and offers continuous scenic views of the lagoon and surrounding volcanic peaks.

