March 14 – Word of the Day: Cascadas (waterfalls)
Despite thoroughly enjoying our trip to the Amazon, it was time to move on to Puyo (City of Clouds) and Banos for the day before stopping for the night in Patate up in the Andes mountains. We did a hike to view a gorgeous cascada or waterfall called El Pailon del Diablo or “The Devil´s Cauldron.”
After the hike we were starving so we enjoyed the box lunch they provided but also stopped by a cute little stand where I had the most delicious banana and chocolate empanada for only $2. I should have gotten a picture, but I was devouring it too quickly.
As we drove through the City of Clouds on our way to Banos, we stopped by to ride a cable car to view two more waterfalls called El Manto de la Novia which were supposed to be “bride and groom” waterfalls.
Later that afternoon, we arrived in Banos which is known for its hot springs/baths, shopping and other fun activities like excursions to see waterfalls. We saw a demonstration on carving with vegetable ivory and walked around exploring the city for a while. There were a ton of candy shops makeing dulce de la cana or sugar cane candy so of course we tried some. It was very sweet but pretty flavorless so I think J and I were both a little disappointed. We did see a lot of vendors selling a delicacy that neither of us was willing to try — cuy (aka guinea pig).
Early evening we traveled to Patate where we would be staying for the evening up in the Andes mountains at Hacienda Manteles. When we arrived the owner was telling us how we were surrounded by volcanos and he joked that the switch to “turn it on for us” was broken. To his surprise, about 30 minutes later, the volcano erupted before our eyes and we got some fabulous pictures.
We were very close to farms and the whole landscape was just breathtaking. J made friends with all the animals including several dogs, goats, and calves. One calf was tied up just outside our room and was enjoying a delicious dinner of fresh grass.
andyoumaysayimadreamer 