In between adventures in the the Amazon, the cloud forest and Galapagos etc, we spent our time in and around Quito doing much less exiting things like getting our laundry done and exploring Equador’s capital city.
Quito certainly keeps you on your toes, it’s not the safest city in the world – in fact I think we were the only travellers in our hostel not to be mugged and robbed at some point during our stay! It’s a great shame as Ecuador is otherwise so beautiful and amazing.
So, one of the obligatory things you have to do whilst in Quito is visit the Mitad del Mundo (the Middle of the World). Yes, we went and stood on the equator line – step into the northern hemisphere – then into the southern hemisphere – then put a foot in both hemispheres. It is cheesy and tacky, but it had to be done.
We visited the Teleferico and rode a cable car to the top of Ruccu Pinchincha. It was pretty cool, the views over Quito are quite stunning – it gives you an appreciation of the cities sheer size.
Just before leaving we caught a ‘chicken’ bus (once again we were the only gringos on board) to Otavalo, a town famous for its artisan market. It’s a nice little place and the market was excellent – we all bought tagua jewellry. It was great being able to stand and watch the locals hand making bracelets and necklaces at great speed seemingly without much effort.
And so that brings to an end the Ecuadorian and South American portion of our journey. It’s very sad, none of us want to leave, we have had a fantastic time here on this continent. We will return one day (soon hopefully).
Adios South America, it’s been a blast! New Zealand here we come, you have a tough act to follow!
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