South America 2
Ecuador, Land of Swings: Flying Like a Condor
Ecuador was such an amazing place to visit, we had to devote another post, right away! I'm sure many of you have seen the "Swing at the End of the World", we'll post about that later. Right now we figured we'd take it up a notch and talk about a swing that you have to get strapped into, and get literally thrown off of your feet! This swing ain't no sweet picturesque swing. I mean yes if you're lucky you do get a great views of the city below, and the mountain ranges ahead (and thevolcano behind!). But this swing is all about the adrenaline rush!
12,000 Feet Above the Sea: What to Expect Hiking Quilotoa. Tips to see the one of Ecuador's gems.
One of the most Instagram-ed lakes in Ecuador is Quilotoa, a lake formed inside the caldera of a collapsed extinct volcano. This is in what is known as "La Sierra" or the mountainous highlands of the Ecuadorian Andes. The reason for it being so Instagram-able? Because it is located inside of a volcano that last exploded in 1280 , it is a lagoon of rainwater that collected and therefore the lagoon is rich of volcanic minerals . There are reports that these minerals also make it too acidic to swim in, however locals say it is safe. Before you try to find out, just remember, you are at over 11,000 feet above sea level so the water is going to be bitterly cold! Also since this was formed from collected rain water, aside from some algae there is no life to be found beneath the surface. And in case you were wondering it is estimated to have an average depth of 722ft and a max depth of 840 feet.
The colour of the lagoon, truly is gorgeous! It is like a mosaic of differing shades of blue, and when the sun peaks through it gives off this beautiful effervescent green too! Continue Reading