Central- & Southamerica

Today we got up at 4am, had breakfast at 4.30am and set off at 5am. A two-hour wild ride in jeeps - yes, it really was a bit of an adventure, like being on a rollercoaster (see video😅) - took us to the start of the hike to Sincholagua Summit. This is the most difficult tour you can do from the hostel, as you have to climb at the end to reach the summit. I was joined in the group by two other people from Belgium, an Australian, a German and two other Swiss people. I was equipped with a hat, gloves and three layers of clothing as it was quite cold. The morning atmosphere was marvellous. We could see the Cotopaxi volcano very clearly and even the surrounding mountains and volcanoes, such as Chimborazo, were visible. It was definitely worth getting up so early. Unfortunately it had snowed all night and so the last part was a bit more difficult and also a bit more dangerous. At 4700 metres above sea level, our guide finally decided that we wouldn't go any further. I think it was the right decision as it was really very slippery and steep. Luckily I had walking poles, so it went reasonably well. I was also very careful. It was a pity we couldn't reach the summit at almost 4900 metres above sea level, but the hike was still very worthwhile.Read more