Day 65: Quito to Ingapirca - Tuesday January 11, 2011

We enjoyed Patio Andaluz in Old Town Quito which combined colonial style architecture and modern conveniences. Of course we got lost getting out of Quito and again after lunch in Riobamba. Both were worth it! At Cabana Montecarlo Restaurant we had the daily fare: Papillo, Consume Madrileno, Chuleta, Menestra and rice; plus Brazo de Gitano. All other diners were locals enjoying lunch in a refined atmosphere.

Up to Riobama, the spectacular Andes countryside and excellent road were invigorating at up to 11,800’. At 10,000’, the Cayenne air suspension system issued a message that it needs to go to the shop. We sympathized! After three days, the Porsche Navigation Device finally accepted that it was south of the equator (at more than 1 degree South).

Some distance after Riobama we left the main Panamerican Hwy and started going between mountain ranges 8,500’-11,800’. We discovered that the cloud layer was from 8,800’-10,200’ and the road was very winding. In some places the “nube” brought visibility down to 60’. Then came the deluge – at least it cleared up the fog. Near our destination, a friendly driver in a red pickup led us to the next road sign.

We received a warm welcome at Posada Ingapirca after a hard, yet thrilling ride. Our dinner was delicious traditional Canari with many new tastes.