Did you ever travel on the roof of the train? In Ecuador it seems to be one of the main tourist attractions: the narrow gauge Andean Railroad was buillt ant the nnd of 19th century. It goes from Quito in the Highlands to Guayaquil on the coast.
Now only one segment – from Riobamba to Sibambe is open. The most spectacular part: Alausi – Sibambe will take you from the level 2600 m to 1600 m in the breathtaking mountain scenery via the seriesof switchbacks carver in the rock, advancing and reversing… Yes, it is the great fun! I bought my ticket day in advance at Riobamba station – it cost 11 USD to go down to Sibambe and back to Alausi. We started at 7.30 am. Unfortunately on Sunday it was not the steam train but one-carriage ferrobus, but still with the places on the roof. We reached Sibambe at 11 am – taking pictures of the famous rock El Nariz the Diablo (The Devils Nose). Then we returned climbing the mountains to Alausi, where on Sundays they have colorful market. Another photo opportunities…
I returned from Alausi to Riobamba at 3 pm by bus (1,50 USD). A lot of noise on the streets – trumping cars are crawling the city with flags and music. They have presidential elections today!
I saw yesterday trucks with soldiers in the town. I hope the end of the election will be peaceful… You never know – it is South America!
