Around Otavalo. Volcanoes, Waterfalls and Beyond.

Yesterday evening in Ipiales we ate lunch with a guy we met at our hostel named Ivan. While he was driving us around town we saw a row of restaurants that all had these sickly looking rodents hanging from the windows. He explained that the animals were actually food, a popular dish in the area called Cuy. Feeling daring we tried some for lunch. I don´t think anyone really liked it.

We walked across the border to ecuador and caught a bus to Otavalo last night. The whole thing was rather confusing and we had no idea what stop we were supposed to take. We took a guess at one and got dropped off in what felt like the middle of nowhere. Knowing we were close to Otavalo we tried to catch a taxi but none could fit all four of us and our stuff. As it grew both later and darker we got more and more worried. Luckily a random guy approached us and asked if we need a ride. Going against everything we were taught in elementary school we accepted and hopped in the bed of his truck. It was so fun sitting in the back of truck and seeing the town like that. Truly unforgettable.

After staying in a hostel owned by a fellow Ohioan this morning we woke up early to catch a glimpse of the daily market. The town square was flooded with very short indigineuos people and all of their crafts. We bought a few things but really just enjoyed talking with the people. One of the highlights for me was helping some high school kids with their Enlglish homework.

Later this afternoon we hiked to an inactive volcano that had converted into a lake over the centuries. The views of the both the mountains and surrounding country side were stunning and the photos we have don´t do them justice. After the lake our ecuadorian friend, Nelson, took us to a nearby waterfall. we had a pretty amazing time standing a few feet from the bottom getting soaked by the mist.

We got some great photos today but had to upload these ones quick becuase we are in a rush. More might be coming. Tonight we are catching an overnight bus to southern coastal city of Guayaquil. We´re not really sure what we´re doing once we get there but it will be an adventure!


-Porter