Yesterday we went on the most beautiful hike in a cloud forest. 

Ecuador has 16 percent of the world's birds on only 0.02 percent of the world's land surface.  169 species can be found where we are staying. 

We headed back for a soak in the hot springs -  Wonderful. 

Today we are off to the market in Otavalo, then back to Quito for our flight home. We say Adios to a wonderful trip.

Sorry no pictures -  my camera's card crashed.  For real!  Phil says that he may be able to salvage them when we get home.


By Mikey Santens

On the way to our Hacienda we visited the 1st church in Ecuador (Catholic of course); built in 1534. Dick and Janet were thinking of renewing their vows.

In the distance is Mt.  Chimborazo with the height of over 20,000 ft. 

Another beautiful Hacienda; Abraspyngo was waiting for us.

 by Mikey Santens

After saying goodbye to our fellow travelers; Janet, Dick, Roger, Phil and Mikey headed for the Ecuadorian Highlands, a portion of the Andes that range Southward through Chile.

Our tour picked us up in Quito and we drove south on the Pan American Highway.  South Quito is less congested with farming of garlic, onions, and fava beans.

We passed by the Ave of the Volcanoes, with the tallest 19,000 ft. There are 20 active volcanoes. We will be exploring this valley on our return to Quito.

We are back in Quito tonight having spent the last 4 nights on board the catamaran Galaxy II, our traveling home around the islands.  Our guide Javier had us on a brisk pace of 2-3 activities a day.  The weather was hot and humid, but we managed the walks/hikes and swimming/ snorkeling with a sense of adventure. I can even boast that I snorkeled with a hammerhead shark nearby!

Six of us will be returning home tonight. Mikey, Phil, Roger, Janet and Dick will continue on a post trip.
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Thank you Lyn for keeping us informed while you were in South America.  Mikey Santens will continue the chronicle as the six of them continue on their Ecuador Highlands post-trip.