Cotopaxi

Cotopaxi in Ecuador’s second highest peak and one of the highest active volcanoes so we though it worth a visit. We had flown back to Quito from the Amazon the evening before and headed off early for Cotopaxi. After driving to 4500m we walked the remaining 300m in altitude in just over 1km. I was really struggling with the altitude and was very dizzy and nausea so decided to sit out the final 500m assent to the base of the glacier. So while I sat in the café sipping on hot tea, F went off with the rest of the group to the glacier. It was quite a change from the days in the jungle, both the climate and altitude but was spectacular none the less. Literally and metaphorically breathtaking.

After the short walk we mounted some dodgy mountain bikes for some downhill action.  With less than good breaks it was cautious going but good fun and a nice break from feeling the effects of the altitude.

We stayed the night at Papa Gayo a STUNNING farm where we had the best room (for reasons not known to me). The place included an ensuite with bathtub with hot water, Jacuzzi, fire places in the rooms and dinner. It was by far the best place we have stayed on our trip and made us feel like never leaving. Felt so good after a night here.