Cotopaxi ... the top of the World!

From the city of Quito we went for a total change of scene and headed to Cotopaxi, one of the highest active volcanoes in the world and the second highest summit in Ecuador at 5,897m.

The view of Cotopaxi from the hostel.

Cotopaxi itself is an amazing site, a perfectly symmetrical volcano visible where ever you go and surrounded by the most beautiful countryside.  It is the perfect place for long walks and peace and quiet.

Nearby waterfalls.

Family day out in the Cotopaxi National Park

We stayed at the Secret Garden which has to be one of my favourite hostels ever.  It is very remote and tries it's best to be sustainable with it's own vegetable  gardens and even a composting toilet!  It does all this while being amazingly comfortable ... there is a wood burner in every room and a jacuzzi overlooking the valley and Cotopaxi!  I thought I was in paradise... my parents thought they were roughing it! They still haven't forgiven me for there not being electricity in their room!


But we did have a fabulous time taking long peaceful walks, relaxing in the jacuzzi and sitting by the log fires in the evenings.

The Secret Garden- complete with Lamas

Parents cabin on the right

The cosiest dorm ever ... wood burners and candle light!

 After a couple of days here we were refreshed and ready to head to the coast ... not to mention ready to be back at sea level so we could remember how to breathe properly!