Baños

After a long day (5 hours on the train, 4 hours in the bus) we arrived yesterday evening in Baños. Eirik tried bravely to comfort tired and therefore grumpy Anita. We had just slept 4 hours the night before due to packing late and getting up early. But here we are in Baños ("baths"), the perfect place to relax. The water is warmed by the active Vulcano Tungurahua and is rich in minerals.

 We woke up to marching music at 8 o'clock and were sure it was some kind of military parade. It was therefore quite surprising to see small school children beating drums, playing xylophone, dancing and marching in formation. They were practicing for tomorrows city fiesta and it was impressive how good they were.

 
The hot baths are situated right next to a high waterfall. The hottest pool has over 40C and after 2 minutes it gets too warm. Luckily there are big pipes with cold water directed from the waterfall under which one can stand afterwards. Very nice!