November 21, 2016
Ecuador team relaxing at the Hacienda San Augustin
Over the weekend, we wrapped up the Mexico trip and the gang in Ecuador will be flying home late tonight. Working with the Reyes family in Mexico made all the logistics issues down there simple. After their successful climb of Orizaba, the team had a nice dinner (after nice showers) at the Reyes family compound in Tlachichua and then spent the night there. They traveled in private transportation back to Mexico City Saturday morning and all got back together that evening for one final dinner. It was a good trip and everyone caught flights home Sunday morning. Next expedition to the Mexico volcanos is 28 January with Josh McDowell leading. Still time and space to join the team.
The team in Ecuador was bummed with the weather they ‘drew’ on Antisana but determined to make the most of their last bit of time in country. They visited an old friend, Jorge Anhalzer, who is ‘retired’ climbing guide and a simply great photographer. He’s authored, with Romulo’s assistance, a number of coffee table books about the people and country of Ecuador. Then, Romulo’s wife, Patricia, prepared the Ecuadorian delicacy cuy as lunch for the crew at their house. For those who don’t know, cuy is guinea pig. Monday will be a hike up Pinchincha and then off to the airport for flights home.
Luke heads back to Ecuador with our next team on 5 January. 2 slots remain.
Next up – Vinson Massif. First expedition of the season begins on 23 November with flights to Punta Arenas, Chile. Mike Hamill and team will kick off the season for us. Stay tuned.
Phil Ershler