The Colca Canyon

We have made the bus journey to El Refugio in the Colca Canyon. The views on our way were breathtaking. The sky was clear allowing us great views of the volcanoes. The topography and plant life change as you climb in altitude, all unique and beautiful. We were very fortunate on our way, seeing vicuña, alpaca, llamas, native birds (some on the extinction list) and other native wildlife, with 5 species on the extinction list. We stopped along the way for great photo 'ops'. Our highest altitude along the way was 16,100 ft or 4910 metres, and of course there was a market, so also visited the highest shopping plaza!

I can't even explain the shades of greens, browns and greys, snow capped peaks.

The road was pretty windy, but not scary, I wasn't in fear of going over the cliff.

We stopped in a small village called Chivay for lunch, visited the local church and market.

Then the clouds rolled in and the rain began to fall. The temperature also dropped a significant amount, brrr.

El Refugio is an isolated little oasis with that he'd roofs and thermal hot springs where we plan to relax this evening. There are a number of stairs from the parking lot along a bubbly brook before you reach the actual building.

No problems with the altitude with Diamox to take for prevention wth candy and cookies made from the coca leaf - these taste a lot better than the tea.

Tonight there is a roaring fire in the dining area where we will enjoy some soup and do a little knitting.