Hiking is more than walking somewhere pretty...

We set off this morning to the lookout point above town.. it was 45 mins of what felt like a vertical climb. The view along the way (as well as at the top) was beautiful, so I didn´t mind stopping every so often to catch my breath (Jordana was very patient!). From the top we set off for a small town called Runtun. I had misunderstood and thought we had no further uphill to go. I was wrong.. up we went, and then up some more. Parts of the trails were carved out of rock below the level of tree roots on either side - pretty awesome. The trail wasn´t well labeled, and involved cutting across the road a few times, but eventually we made it to the small town. Lots of cows, horses and chickens along the way to keep us entertained. On the way down we passed an ``adventure spa`` with clear blue pools and fancy villas.. certainly beyond our budget!

Back in town we had ice cream, wandered through the market and then went to the thermal pools at the base of a waterfall in Banos. Very relaxing.. though my sun burned arms did not appreciate the hot water! It was nice to see so many locals using the pools, and I especially enjoyed the little kids (in the water) and the cute old people with hats (who were outside the water).

We decided to explore some local live music, so together with some others from our hostel, went to a bar. Well, you know it is low season when the bar only opens because you have shown up! The singing and guitar were a lot of fun though hardly "traditional folk music" as the guide book had listed.. I recognized La Bamba and one other song as well.

 

Tomorrow it's back to Quito and on we`re returning to Quito and early Friday morning we´re off to the Galapagos Islands.