The Early Morning Adventure

The day began with an unexpected twist. I was jolted awake by the hotel intercom at 4:00 a.m., a full 30 minutes earlier than anticipated. The local operator had informed us of a change in the train schedule, and we had to make a quick decision: either cancel, reschedule, or embark on this adventure at the crack of dawn. As a passionate advocate for nature and history, the choice was clear. I grabbed the small snack prepared by the hotel and set off into the early morning darkness, eager to experience the legendary Devil’s Nose Train and the Ingapirca Ruins.

The journey to the Devil’s Nose was a blur of anticipation and excitement. As the first light of dawn broke over the Andes, the landscape transformed into a breathtaking tapestry of colors and contrasts. The train ride itself was a marvel, a testament to human ingenuity and the indomitable spirit of exploration. The zig-zagging tracks carved into the mountainside offered panoramic views that were nothing short of spectacular. It was a reminder of the delicate balance between human achievement and the natural world, a theme that resonates deeply with my work in conservation.

A Warm Welcome in Sibambe

Upon arriving in the village of Sibambe, we were greeted with warmth and hospitality. The local community, with its rich cultural heritage, added a layer of depth to the experience. As we disembarked from the train, I felt a profound connection to the land and its people. The village, nestled in the heart of the Andes, seemed to pulse with life and history.

Our guide, Luis Gonzales, was a revelation. His knowledge of the area was encyclopedic, and his passion for sharing it was infectious. Alongside our skilled driver, Diego Peñalosa, Luis led us through the village, weaving stories of the past with insights into the present. It was a reminder of the importance of preserving these cultural treasures for future generations, a cause that is close to my heart.

The private tour allowed for a more intimate exploration of the area, and I was grateful for the opportunity to engage with the local community on a personal level. The experience was a testament to the power of responsible tourism, where visitors and locals come together to celebrate and protect the natural and cultural heritage of the region.

Discovering the Ingapirca Ruins

The journey continued along the Pan-American Highway to the Ingapirca Ruins, Ecuador’s largest pre-Columbian archaeological site. As we approached the ruins, the air was thick with history and mystery. The Sun’s Temple, with its elliptical platform, stood as a silent witness to the ingenuity and spirituality of the Inca civilization.

Walking among the courtyards and terraces, I was struck by the harmony between the structures and the surrounding landscape. It was a poignant reminder of the Inca’s deep connection to the natural world, a philosophy that continues to inspire my work in wildlife preservation.

Luis’s expertise shone through as he guided us through the ruins, answering questions with patience and insight. His dedication to sharing the history and significance of Ingapirca was evident, and it enriched the experience immeasurably. It was a day of discovery and reflection, a chance to connect with the past and contemplate the future.

As the sun set over the Andes, casting a golden glow over the ruins, I felt a profound sense of gratitude. The Devil’s Nose Hike and Ingapirca Ruins had offered not just a glimpse into history, but a deeper understanding of the delicate interplay between humanity and nature. It was a journey that reaffirmed my commitment to conservation and left me with memories to cherish for a lifetime.