We went to a large reserve surrounding a mountain called Antisana. What a beautiful experience.

Lots of gorgeous countryside

Great bird watching (we were with friends who are true birders, so we weren’t allowed to say “look at the fat brown one with the thing on the back”)

Including condors

Wildhorses at the base of the mountain, a wild wolf, and Ecua-gauchos

And naturally, the mighty Antisana didn't disappoint.

We visited the house of German explorer Alexander von Humboldt. (No surprise why he was fascinated with Ecuador.)

And, I hate to admit it, but the best part of it all was seeing this adorable little boy lassoing (is that how you spell it?) a tree. He was pretty darn good for a three year old!