www.ecuadors.org

[Hring]

s it possible to return to Banos now after the eruption a couple of weeks ago?? I know that it is mostly in ruins, but I think that I would like to see what the aftermath of a large eruption looks like. Just want to make sure it is possible, to save the hassle of getting all the way over there, just to be turned away, or to not be able to get close to it all (I´m currently in Guayaquil......only a week left in Ecuador).

Has anyone talked to someone who has been there over the past 2 weeks??

[Jonathan]

Hi!

We just came from Banos and are travelling further south to Peru.

Banos ist absolutely fine. Nothing destroyed, except the road. Road is open again and all the buses are running on schedule. Die only thing missing in Banos are the tourists! So it's really quiet and calm. And they really miss them everywhere. Lots of tourits seem to be scared because of the Volcano, but at the moment it's absolutely calm and the people would be glad, if more came to visit. Because of this lack of people, some of the tour-activities may not leave every day from every tour-operator. So shop around.

In case of a new erruption - and it really doesn't look like it at the moment. Banos is realy well equiped. Every tour-operator can supply you with a map with the current instructions for a possible evacuation. All the Roads are marked with yellow Arrows, indicating the evacuation route in case of an alarm.

Go there - you'll enjoy it!

My recommendation for a half-day-trip: Walk up to the big, white cross on the hill above the thermal baths. Then continue up the road and past the 5-star hotel complex and follow the signs to Mirrador de virgen. Beatiful views!!

greetings