03/01/2025
Some journeys aren't just about the places you visit but the people you share them with. Recently, I had the privilege of experiencing a trip that gave me more than memories; it gave me friends. 💛
Over five unforgettable days, I explored the heart of Ecuador with a couple whose adventurous spirit and warm humor turned every moment into something special. We kicked things off at Cotopaxi 🏔️, braving the wind and cold on bikes, ending the day with the kind of laughter that only comes from sharing something extraordinary.
Day two brought us to Chimborazo ❄️, where the weather decided to put on a show: rain, hail, and sunshine 🌧️☀️ all in a single day. Instead of complaining, we laughed, pushed forward, and embraced the chaos. That evening in Baños 🌸, as we strolled through town, they tried some local sweets. The look on their faces was priceless—let’s just say Ecuadorian sugar doesn’t hold back! 🍬
Day three felt like an adventure within an adventure. From Baños, we biked to the iconic Pailón del Diablo waterfall 🌊, a natural wonder that humbles you with its power. Along the way, we took an unplanned break for a beer 🍻, a simple moment that somehow became unforgettable. We ended the day in Misahuallí, surrounded by the sounds of the jungle 🌴🐒, like something straight out of a movie.
Day four was about connection—both to nature and to something deeper. We took a boat 🚤 to an animal rescue center in the Amazon 🌳, where we saw creatures with stories of survival and hope. Later, in a local community, we fed caimans 🐊 and learned how to make chocolate from scratch 🍫. I’m not sure if it was the experience or the atmosphere, but that chocolate tasted like gratitude itself.
The final day was the perfect ending. We passed through Papallacta, biked down to Pifo 🚴♀️, and explored the Chaquiñán trail, a path so picturesque it felt like stepping into a storybook 📖. The rain 🌦️, our constant companion throughout the trip, couldn’t dampen our spirits or the bond we had built.
This journey reminded me why I love what I do. Beyond the stunning landscapes 🏞️ and carefully planned itineraries, it’s the people who make each experience unique. Sometimes, all it takes is a bit of openness to discover something as precious as friendship. 🫶
