Ecuador Volcanoes Expedition Dispatch

November 24, 2015 – Hiking Cuicocha – Guinea Pig Lake

Today we went for hike around Guinea Pig Lake. There is an interesting history here, not only with the people, but also the environment. The caldera was created by a massive phreatic eruption (caused by magma heating the ground or surface water, causing near-instantaneous explosions of steam). There are two islands in the lake left from the eruption; the largest one is in shape of a guinea pig. This animal is a very significant part of Ecuadorian life. For the populations living higher at altitude, the guinea pig offers a perfect high protein meal.

Hiking the trails, there is a distinct style through the narrow paths and high walls. This was created by the Incas. They used the walls for protection from the wind and possible enemies.

Today’s weather offered us a mix of sun and rain which inevitably leads to the very familiar mountain trekking style of multiple clothing adjustments throughout the day. When we’d stop to adjust, we were able to take in more of the vegetation surrounding us, quite unique and different. We actually finished the trek in lush jungle terrain!

Doreen, who is a pharmacist, was very interested in all of the types of flowers and plants on the trail and their possible medicinal properties.

We also learned that once a year there is a swimming competition around the lake, about 5 km.

The team had an enjoyable day and Martial and Marie-Jo were very happy to hike with our BAI Guide Sergio again; they met on our Aconcagua 2014 expedition.