Yanahurco (Mojanda) Peak

Nudo de Mojanda Cajas; 38 kilometers northeast of Quito; 10 km northwest of Tabacundo.

1. Normal Route Tabacundo: Arriving at Tabacundo by the Panamerican Hw from Quito, you will find a sign on the left (towards the north) that indicates the road to the "Lagunas de Mojanda". The road is ballasted and increasingly difficult as it approaches the paramo, more advisable for 4x4 or high traction vehicles. To ascend to the Yanahurco, you should start the hike at the Lagoons Viewpoint.
2. Otavalo Route: This is the easiest route for the Laguna Grande in any vehicle, also to climb the Fuya Fuya. Arriving at Otavalo by the Panamericana from Quito, take a road to the southwest (left) that goes to the "Lagunas de Mojanda". The road to Mojanda is cobbled and allows the access for any vehicle to the Laguna Grande. In winter time it may be impossible to continue towards the Yanahurco. One option would be to start hiking from this point adding about 45 minutes to 1 hour to the ascension time to the summit.
3. Malchinguí Route: This is the most difficult approach, recommended only for 4×4 vehicles and good drivers. Take the road Quito - Guayllabamba - San José de Minas, just past the Protected Forest of Jerusalem, it deviates to the right by pavement until the town of Malchinguí. The road to Mojanda starts at the central square and continues all the way up following a cobbled, ballasted and then muddy road. Almost arriving at the paramo, on the descent that passes through the hacienda house (a small house), it's taken to the left. This road reaches the Laguna Chiquita and from there with much difficulty the Lagoons Viewpoint.