This post features student writing.

Hola padres y familias!

The last time we checked in, we told you about how we arrived in Cotopaxi, where we spent the day riding on horseback and enjoying the view of the volcano, next to the APUs, protector of the mountains, and also enjoying a taza de té (cup of tea) made from a plant found in the region. Everyone had a great time pretending to be Ecuadorian cowboys (chagras) for the day, wearing ponchos (woven garments similar to blankets) and chaps with wool, both of which helped us to stay warm in the wind and rain.

We spent the rest of the day resting, and presented our independent projects that we worked on during our stay in Las Tolas.

Today, Thursday, we took a hike up Cotopaxi (“Neck of the moon” in Quechua) and enjoyed hot chocolate in the refugio, which stands at almost 15,000 feet above sea level.

It was tiring and long, but what made it worth it was the gorgeous view of the volcano and the warmth of the refugio after our arduous hike. We descended, ate lunch, and rode the bus to Quito, where we stayed until the flight to the Galápagos Islands. We will be updating you as soon as possible on our adventures!

Hasta luego!

— Isaiah M.