Viva Ecuador!
Saturday, 13 February 2010 17:30
Again, we were sad to leave, but excited to get to Banos and soak in some hot springs!
Ecuadorian Jungle Village
Roadside Fruit Stand
Lunch at an Asadero in Banos
Asadero Waiter Waves Adios
Banos is a town in a green river valley and we drove up to Luna Runtan, a beautiful lodge on the side of an active volcano, Volcan Tungurahua. We enjoyed the hot pools and spectacular views.
Luna Runtan Resort Above Banos
Volcanic Hot Spring Pools
Infinity Pool at Luna Runtan
View of Banos Town from Luna Runtan
After two nights, we left to take another mountain loop which rounded Volcan Chimborazo.
In the Clouds Approaching Chimbarazo Volcano
At 13,000 ft., we came out of the clouds, into the sun, to see Ecuador's highest peak, Chimbarazo at 3,310 meters (20,702 feet) also the furthest point from the center of the earth due to the equatorial ridge. Awesome!
In the Clouds Approaching Chimbarazo Volcano
Alpacas Near Chimbarazo
That night we stayed at a modest hotel in Riobamb
We found internet at the Central Plaza. We sat out with many locals using our phones to catch up on emails.
The next day, we got an early start south to Cuenca.
Road Construction
Local Bus out of Riobamba
Up above the Clouds Again
South to Cuenca
Ecaudorian Woman
Statue Overlooking Town
Cemetary in Front of Valley Village
Riding in the Clouds
Ecuadorian Woman
Typical Brick Home with Rock Fencing
More Roadwork
Make Way for Ducklings
Traditional Dress in Ecuador
Ecuadorian Woman Carrying a Load on her Back
We wanted to see the Inca ruins at Ingapirca because we hear that Machu Picchu is flooded and closed for many days.
Vicunas
The sun temple at Ingapirca is a fine example of precise stone work.
More pictures here
We enjoyed the countryside, hiked, had a typical meal and finally headed into Cuenca.
Andean Dwelling
Ecuadorian Woman Carrying Firewood
We had the address of a hostel which had garage and internet. It turned out that "garage" meant pulling the bike into the courtyard where it is safe
Selling Snacks at Traffic Jam
The Beast's lodging at Cuenca Hostal
But unfortunately, the internet isn’t working at this time. Also typical! We are staying in a 200 year old home from the colonial days which has been converted into a hostel and art studio.
Again, we go walk to the central square for free internet. Planning on heading to the coast tomorrow – we hear the beaches at Mancora are beautiful!
Peace and ride safe
Pierre