Casa Mojanda

Location:
Otavalo, Ecuador

Hotel

By Christopher Minster

Located in the hills just over 3km outside Otavalo on the road to Lagunas de Mojanda, Casa Mojanda is an interesting mix of hacienda experience and modern eco-tourism. They have the top-notch facilities, beautiful gardens and stables, and spacious rooms of an hacienda (and the rates to go with it) but also a genuine concern for the local community and sound tourism practices.

Casa Mojanda was built recently and is not an actual hacienda. Rather, it is sort of a super-deluxe, more comfortable version of local packed-earth homes. If you want to live like the locals without actually having to share a two-room home with your entire family and a bunch of guinea pigs, Casa Mojanda is the place for you.

Casa Majanda prides itself on making this experience as genuine as possible: the home-cooked meals are often local recipes and made from traditional ingredients, and an Andean music band is often around to play. There is a sociable atmosphere at mealtimes and the hosts, a US/Ecuadorian couple, eat with the guests. They are very knowledgeable about the local area and can provide information about local walks and tours. Ask them about their community-based projects, which include building a kindergarten and health center.

Casa Mojanda offers a number of activities and trips. Otavalo is only a ten-minute drive away, or an hour if you’d rather hike. Also, the staff there can arrange horseback riding, mountain biking, bird watching and visits to local places of interest such as the cities of Ibarra or Cayambe, the ruins at Cochasqui, and the Mojanda lakes.

Casa Mojanda sponsors its own charity, the Mojanda Foundation, which supports local communities. Part of the proceeds from every visit go to this foundation. Volunteer opportunities are available. For more information, see the Casa Mojanda website.

Hotel Amenities, Services and Facilities Restaurant, Bar

Getting There:
Off the main highway north of Quito, between San Pablo Lake and Otavalo

Room Prices:
Lower:$85 (single)
Higher:$150 (double)
Price Description:Prices do not include 12% tax and 10% service. Discounts available for kids, Ecuadorians and long stays.

Contact Information:
Phone: 593-9-440-0424
E-mail: info(at)remove-this.casamojanda.com
URL: www.casamojanda.com

Traveler Reviews of

Casa Mojanda is the greatest

Rating: 100%

We loved everything about our family visit. It was one of the best vacations ever.

By V!VA User from Newton, Mass, Apr 19, 2007

Can't wait to go back!

Rating: 100%

Such a beautiful location with a great atmosphere. Wonderful food and friendly staff. A bit pricey but worth it!

By V!VA User, Apr 02, 2006

We Love Casa Mojanda

Rating: 100%

We have been twice. It's perfect for thoughtful travellers. Hosts Betti and Diego have built a very special one of a kind place. Kid friendly. Great guides for local cultural trips. Amazing views. Not cheap for Ecuador but the atmosphere and food make it worthwhile.

By V!VA User from New York, Nov 06, 2005