Ecuador - la naturaleza

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Dear all,

During the last two weeks I have been doing a few (if little) hikes and walks in the Sierra around Otavalo. Waterfalls, mountains, lakes and healing trees - I can't begin to describe how beautiful it is around here. And what amazes me every time is how quiet those places are. One can hear the occasional pig gruntling or a bird singing, but apart from that there is just absolute silence. (Unless some annoying tourists have decided to take a taxi all the way) Despite having seen absolutely beautiful countryside, I am a little disappointed about the limited amount of native animals that I have come across. So far, the scores are:

category "Exciting!"
llamas: 4 (three white, one brown)
eagles wild: 1
eagles in big bird rehabilitation centre up in the mountains: 10
condors wild: 0
condors in big bird rehabilitation centre up in the mountains: 2
guinea pigs wild: 0 (can you believe it!!!!)
guinea pigs on a plate with salad: 5
butterflies: hundreds with really pretty colours
hummingbirds: 2

category "Not again!"
chicken, pigs, dogs, cows, sheep, horses: stopped counting last month

I have only 5 days left to do some serious animal watching!

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Photos

The Healing Tree
According to the indigenous people, this solitary tree has healing powers. As you can see, I am trying my luck there!

La Laguna Cuicocha
Literally, this volcanic lake is called "Lake of the guinea pigs" - but where the hell are they??

La Laguna Cuicocha
Ja, wo laufen Sie denn??

The Peguche Waterfall
According to the indigenous people, a very beautiful young man lives in a cave under the waterfall. For eternal (male only) beauty, one cup of this water is sufficient. Any requests?

Eagle in rehabilitation centre
This is the most common type of Eagle found around here. Hopefully, this one will have recovered soon and be released into freedom!

El chancho
Never far away, wherever you are!