Cojitambo, Ecuador trip

Our Spanish tutor (Eduardo) asked if we wanted to take a trip to a nearby historic site of Inca ruins. We decided to take him up on his offer to go to Cojitamba. We met at the Cuenca, EC bus terminal for the trip.

Edwardo and and I are waiting for the bus.

Karen and Eduardo patiently waiting for the bus.

This is the sign behind the bus driver which translates: "Only God knows my destination". I had mixed emotions about the meaning with regard to where we intended to go and where we actually might go.

Our first stop was the small town of Deleg, Ecuador. It has a population of a little more than 6,000 people. I was surprised at all the road construction in this small town. Several of the roads had workers laying decorative pavers in designs for the streets and the sidewalks.

Above is a statue of a former Ecuadorian President who was born in Deleg.

Below are various pictures of the small town of Deleg.

We took a bus from Deleg and headed to Cojitambo. We began our walk to Cajitambo on the gravel road starting at about 9,000 feet above sea level.

This is the marker which states that the area had been inhabited as far back as 500 B.C. The ruins we were to view were constructed during the time of Inca rule between 1450 and 1532 A.D.

This is one of the remaining walls constructed.

This is a well that is located in the middle of what was described to me as 'court' (for making judgement on issues between people).

A view of the terraces formed by the walls.

Up! Always up!!! The steps toward higher ground. The steps were made short so that those carrying the king on a litter could more easily ascend the mountain. In exchange for their efforts of carrying the litter, the king provided food, clothing, shelter and protection.

House with visible roof line.

Interior of the house.

At this point it felt like I had an anvil strapped to each ankle and my lungs were screaming for oxygen....but we must press on. Karen was a real trooper!

Face at the top of the mountain. We made it!!!

Photo from the top.

In the foreground is a view of Deleg from over 10,000 feet. The larger town in the background is Azogues.

I was exhausted and rested my head on my backpack while enjoying the beautiful sky and clounds.

Lunch!!! Carrot sticks, PB&J sandwiches, blueberry muffins, trail mix, and water...we enjoyed every bite. Our bodies needed more fuel for the walk down.

Edwardo taking a break.

Karen enjoying the view while eating lunch.

Today I am trying to recover....eating tylenol as if it were M & M's.