The Templo Machay hike

In the morning we will drive through the Chimborazo Reserve to the Carrel Refuge at 4850 m altitude, from where we will begin our hike to a sacred cave on the flanks of the volcano Chimborazo. On the way, we will have the chance to see the llama’s delicate wild cousin, the vicuña, roaming the otherworldly landscapes. You will feel the lack of oxygen and discover that the barren landscape is home to more plants than was first apparent.

At lunchtime we will arrive at the cave known as the Templo de Machay which, according to the Puruhá cosmovision, is the ear of the deity Chimborazo. For hundreds of years, the Puruhás have been making offerings in the cave, a tradition still continued to this day. It is believed that those who enter with humility and gratitude may have their wishes granted by the volcano. It is a truly magical experience, sitting in the cave and listening to ancient legends as we watch hummingbirds swoop in and out to their nests.

During our descent to the road, we will stop at the arbol solitario, the only tree within the Chimborazo reserve, thought to be the only remaining specimen of its kind. The Puruhá yachaks (shamans) believe the tree to be strongly connected to the moon and stars, and that circling it 12 times will cure illness. We will also pass some dunes of fine, nearly white sand, which have been blown by the wind into desert-like ripples and peaks.