Day 2- Otavalo and Beyond

Our second full day in Ecuador is a wrap and what a fun day it was.

We started out for the province of Imbabura and the indigenous market in Otavalo.  We spent about an hour looking at different crafts made my locals with local products, ranging from alpaca/llama wool blankets, embroidery, silver jewelry, handmade bags/backpacks, and more.  The students worked on their bartering skills and I think they came away with some bargins.

From there we headed to Cuicocha Crater Lake, "the lake of guinea pigs".  After a short hike we reached a plateau with a beautiful view and learned of the importance of this lake to the indigenous people.  It was given its name due to the shape of the largest island in the lagoon. 

Make down the mountain we went and headed to for lunch in Cotachachi One the way to the restaurant, we got to watch part of the San Juan Festival, where many men dressed in chaps came running through the city streets stomping and chanting.  It was quite the spectacle (short video to be posted separately.  As a treat at lunch, the kids all got to try guinea pig, which had mixed reviews, followed by empanadas and pork and potatoes.

Then back on the bus for a short ride to Cascada de Peguche - a waterfall known for its healing powers.  The students spent time hiking all around the area and take in the sites.  Some even met a local named Miguel and his 2 llamas - Marta and Luna.  After fully exploring the waterfall, it was time to head back to Quito.  However, our wonderful manager, Maria, asked if we wanted to visit a local workshop for traditional Ecuadorian, Peruvian and Bolivian instruments.  So off we went.   Jose gave us a short demonstration on how to make pan flutes (which he can make in under 7 minutes) and then showed us different instruments and how to play them and also played a song for us.  I have to admit, I have a new found respect for the pan flute.

Back in Quito, we headed to dinner and back to the hotel for an early start tomorrow morning heading to Cotopaxi.  Hopefully our new hotel will have internet as well to keep you updated.