Rafting in the Amazon

I have wanted to go white water rafting for as long as I can remember, nothing like waiting to do it in style on a river that feeds into the Amazon. We had a brilliant four hour tour, it was properly amazing, scary at times but brilliant. Usually the river runs at a category 3 out of a possible 5, but yesterday it was a tiny bit terrifying 4. I cannot wait to do it again.

It was really fantastic.  I refused to fall in so now my poor thighs are a little sore from the grip.  But altogether brilliant!

Monkey Beach, Misahualli

After what I can only describe as the perfect morning, we headed down the road to a small town called Misahualli (otherwise known as monkey beach). A great little riverside town that would have been a little more fantastic had our lunch taken less than 3 hours (I thought Kristi may eat her own arm at one point). But we got through it, had a little boat trip, and played with some monkies (Lola was not a fan).

 This is where I learnt what 'hangry' meant, and I never wish to see it again!

(This wild bird was not a fan of me taking pics)
Altogether a really interesting day, it is so hard to believe that this is only a few hours out of Quito, it is an entirely different world.

Tena, Ecuador

Two days ago I was on top of a mountain and now I am in the Rain forest, Ecuador is an amazing country. Minutes after me and Mark returned from our school trip we jumped in his jeep (throwing Kristi and Desiree in car first) and headed to the Amazon.  I woke up in the best mood ever, to sunshine and tropical weather.

We started our long weekend by taking a long hike to the most beautiful waterfalls.  It was like out of a movie.  It was also properly freezing so me and Lola decided against a swim!

Mount FuyaFuya

Today we climbed to the summit of Mount FuyaFuya, 4200 meters high. Like properly climbed, the last few hundred meters with ropes, gripping rocks and pulling ourselves up in the rain. It was fantastic, definitely could have been better conditions but to see everyone so excited after finally making it, it would not have mattered if it snowed.

 Jimmy looking so happy for the climb.

Beautiful views

At the summit, it was very steep so we had to take ropes up and everything.  I felt like a proper climber (except that I was slightly terrified and had people all around me to help).

4200 meters, in the rain, fabulous. The kids were so excited, as most did not think they could do it. I also was pretty thrilled, I must say that I thought getting down was far more painful then up. We have now arrived at our hostel for the evening activities to begin.

Discover Ecuador

Every year each year group in the high school visits a differ even location outside of Quito. I am on the grade ten trip, not far out of Quito, Guayllabamba, camping and hiking, amongst other activities.

 Beautiful magical waterfall (meant to be blessed)

 Taking a break and learn about our surroundings

 A visit to a condor sanctuary

A great first day ended around the campsite. Tomorrow we have an early start climbing up a mountain.

Nono, Ecuador

Nono is an extremely deceiving name as I think all that went today think a better name for the small town is Yesyes. It is located just over the mountain of the other side of the city (turn left at two donkies at the top and go straight down) into a beautiful valley. Today me, Lola Betsy, her husband Roman and their dog Lucy made the one hour journey to hike to a cascada.

A really lovely day out of the city. There are so many places to visit, this one is not really a popular destination or one I could find much on line about - but it should be.

Celebration of Winter

So apparently we are in winter here in Quito, this is what the locals tell me anyway. Well if this is winter, I actually may to learn a season that I have never been a big fan of.

These are just a few shots around campus and the park over the last few days. It has been a beautiful week, combine the weather with delicious sushi and Mexican dinners with friends and I think I have a perfect week in the making.