Early morning we two interns from Gulliver caught the taxi to the Quitumbe Bus Terminal in the southern part of Quito. Even Saturdays before seven o`clock we found us stuck up in traffic.
However, we were lucky to get a bus 10 minutes after arriving at the station and heading off to Baños. After this 3,5 hours ride we found ourselves in the small town and stunning weather. In the Cafe Arte, which I highly recommend to everyone that visits Baños, we enjoyed a really good breakfast.
We stayed at the Hostel Los Pinos near the centre - good price and services.
Though the sun was burning we decided to hike up to the Casa del Arbol where we arrived after a few stops and visiting points. The view was breathtaking not only because of the sundown but also because the volcano was that near and giant. Lucky us, just when entering the taxi for descending, we saw an eruption and a huge column of smoke coming out of the volcano. Very impressive.
In the evening, tired and hungry, we enjoyed a rich meal in the Casa Hood, nice ambience and local musicians. Drinks we had also at a nice place with some fireplace in the middle of yard.
The sunday we rent at an office, that is actually working with Gulliver Expedition the tour operator in Quito, some bikes and headed off to the waterfalls. Indeed, we arrived at the Rio Verde after an hour, but supposed to have more than two. Nice and clear water to refresh and chill out in the sun. A hundred meters away there is the entrance to the famous waterfall pailon del diablo. Really worth to see that too.
So, any future interns should enjoy biking and hiking in Ecuador as well as the beautiful diversities.
