| The first feeling about Ecuador was steep road twists, with disproportionate palm trees and coconuts. Seated on the bus, in a precarious comfort, we gradually climbed summits to reach peaks surrounded by fog. The road was in poor conditions due to the frequent collapses of ground but the collection of religious lucky charms, hung on the rear-view mirror, was enough to make us feel in good hands. The delight of these tropical landscapes consolidated our sweet audacity. |
| We arrived at Cuenca beside villagers who came to sell their fruits and vegetables on the market. Their manta, a piece of material particularly resistant, allowed them to transport on their back, alternately, goods or children. First world exporter of bananas, this country got nevertheless only a low income. The development of fair trade - la produccion limpia y el comercio justo - still remained to encourage. Therefore, farmers tried to increase their salary by manufacturing the famous hats of Panama. |
| Enthusiast for big thrills, we continued our trip by taking the train called el Nariz del Diablo, the devil’s nose. Seated outside on the roof of this steam train, we speculated with humour on the potential derailments of this very old machine. The precarious and sinuous way went incredibly close to cliffs and abysses. Always in search of intense emotions, we then opted for a trek in the Ecuadorian jungle. This expedition in the rain forest had been highly rewarded with unusual encounters and striking discoveries. |
| To go deeper in the heart of this luxuriant vegetation, as experienced trekkers, we had to catch lianas, to climb rocks made slippery by the humidity and to navigate in dugout on rivers. These efforts were always rewarded. While crossing waterfalls, viewing parrots and toucans, the endemic vegetation which was the most diversified of the world, was surrounding us: huge ferns, walking palm trees, delicate orchids and scarlet anthuriums as well. |
| In front of this fantastic biodiversity, we became aware of the role of ecotourism. Respecting a natural environment and its inhabitants, without disrupting their fragile balance became quite obvious to us. Visiting the remote villages really made sense. The life in autarky of the natives and the blowpipe competitions with their children were of a rare authenticity. We were delighted to have swapped for ten days the vineyard for the Amazonian forest. |
| Maipo: Concha y Toro, Odfjell, Santa Aquitania - Rapel: Château Los Boldos, Casa La Postolle, Santa Emiliana - Curicó: Miguel Torres, San Pedro, Aresti - Colchagua: Araucano Lurton, Los Vascos, Viu Manent - Maule: Valle Frio, Gilmore - Casablanca: Veramont, Villard |
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ecuador
Andean market in Cuenca
Panama hot of a banana merchant
delta in the rain forest
86 degrees and 80% humidity
echo from Baños
ethnic group in the jungle