Equador, part 2 - Cotopaxi region

It's a little unsettling to realize that Cotopaxi is, in addition to being Equador's 2nd highest summit, an active stratovolcano. Eruptions over the years have hurled car-sized rocks over immense distances into nearby lava fields. Hikers ascend every day via the refuge which is situated at an altitude similar to the popular summit of Mount Kenya - 15,777 feet. Fueled by fresh air and tasty food from our hacienda, we hiked as far as the refuge for a cup of coca tea. Perhaps another time we'll return for a summit hike - an amazing 19,347 feet. During our few days in the area, we relaxed at the hacienda, rode beautiful horses through the national park, and went for moderate walks in the gently undulating landscape. And the stories are true - Brian was chased by a bull who didn't seem to approve of our choice of path through the countryside.