Next stop on my adventure was town of Baños in the very narrow Andean mountain valley. It is famous for its numerous waterfalls and adventure tourism. Before arriving in my next destination, I decided to explore some mountain areas of the Sangay National Park. The access into the park is very limited with only few dirt roads leading to mountain villages. The weather proofed to be very challenging with fog obscuring most of the landscape and occasional rain with snow. Couple times I had to turn back since the road became washed out and was not passable any more for any type of vehicle. Traveling according to map in Ecuador is merely a suggestion, since one never knows what awaits few kilometers ahead. Finally, I arrived in Riobamba, to resupply. Hoping to stay in the mountains overnight I drove another access point and once again to discover that the road was not passable. The night has arrived and not able to find any accommodation I found a little flat spot near village where I set up the tent. Spending a night like that is not ideal, but its always safe. In the morning I was greeted by wondering donkeys and villagers coming and going from the fields.
Since I was not able to get into the mountains, I continued on into town of Baños. The weather finally had cleared with blue sky and it was an upbeat drive through some very spectacular mountain roads. The arid landscape changed into more tropical and lush vegetation and waterfalls flowing from mountain tops.
Baños itself is a colorful town geared towards tourism with many great restaurants and adventure companies. My accommodation for next few nights was a mountain cabin about 15km just outside town overlooking a lush valley. It was a total unexpected find, it was beautifully finished in wood with large windows all around, fireplace, bathtub, and huge deck. I took full advantage of it since I was tired from camping and being on the road for many days.
Over the next few days, I explored many vistas points and waterfalls that Baños has to offer.