Chased by a Dog (and Volcanos)
Every country I’ve biked through in South America has a lot of loose dogs. Both strays and with homes, but they socialize in groups and walk the streets much like the humans. I remember drinking a craft beer in Chile with a name that implied that the dogs were in charge here.
On a rural highway in Ecuador, the quantity of dogs surprised even me - one every 50 meters! And with no obvious homes or farms nearby! I knew I’d have the opportunity to capture the ubiquitous dog chasing my bike (this happens daily).
The dogs sound quite vicious, but luckily it’s been all bluster for me. I have heard stories of other bike riders being bitten. As you can see, it’s quite comical how they lose interest immediately. On a sadder note, I have witnessed car drivers kill a dog three times.
Volcanos! My route into Quito included a few detours to see beautiful mountains and waterfalls. At first, the fog and clouds were thwarting any chance of a view for me. But then, at my campsite close to Cotopaxi, the mountain came out for a few wonderful hours.
Just down the road was a thunderous waterfall. Standing near the pool at the bottom, the wind generated by the mist is quite strong.
Link to my route: https://maps.findmespot.com/s/BX14
