After returning from the Waorani community, we still had two more days left at Iyarina before heading home. On Wednesday morning, we woke up, ate breakfast, and got a chance to relax a little after the long travel day back from the Amazon. The break was very much needed. Later in the morning, we headed…
Author: ellashambaugh
Wow Waorani
Our canoe ride to visit the Waorani started off eventful. Within the first two minutes of the trip, our propeller on the boat came loose and we came to a stop in the middle of the river. The two men driving the canoe spent fifteen minutes trying to reattach it with wire. Thankfully, they managed…
Through The Rainforest
Today is Friday, and our last full day before we begin the six hour canoe ride down the Amazon River to visit the Waorani community. I am excited, but a little nervous, and definitely trying not to think too hard about how long I am going to be stuck in a canoe tomorrow. The day…
Crossing The Equator
Going into this trip I told myself there was only one thing I wouldn’t try. However after learning about how important it is to Ecuadorian culture, I decided I could not pass up the opportunity to try guinea pig. I am glad I tried it, but I probably wont be doing that again. Thursday started…
Adios Otavalo
The past three days in Ecuador have felt nonstop, but in the best way. Monday was essentially a full day dedicated to chocolate. The day started with a chocolate tasting at Yumbos, where we learned about the chocolate making process from start to finish. Here, I learned about how many different forms and flavors you…
Officially on Ecuadorian Time
My trip to Ecuador started off a little more chaotic than I expected. After an eventful night in Tower A, I somehow decided that a one-hour nap before our 3am departure would be a good idea. I set at least six alarms, worrying that I would not make it up in time to catch the…
Next Stop: Ecuador
Hi everyone! My name is Ella Shambaugh and I just finished my first of three years at Pitt. I am an accounting major, with a certificate in public accounting, from Harrisburg, PA. I am also a member of the professional business fraternity, Alpha Kappa Psi and work at Duos Taqueria in East Liberty, a Mexican…