Jacaranda Journey

Bridge entry into town from the highway

Mural showing the Mama Negra character in the annual Festival

Mural depicting the Ashunguero character in the annual Festival

Angel de la Estrella (Star Angel)

Fireworks tower in front of the church

El Rey Morro (Moorish King)

Ashanguaro with his alter

Father dressed as a Camisona (colorful transvestite) painting the face of his little ashunguero-in-training son.

Mama Negra himself

Mama Negra himself

Main square

Jaun with guinea pigs underfoot

Buying guinea pigs (not a pet)

Religious procession

Highway of Waterfalls

Manto de la Novia Waterfall

Melcocha - sticky taffy being softened in the doorway of the shop

Sugar cane stalls

Train station

Chuck, Buzz, Maureen and Vicki boarding the train in Alausi

Along the switchback

The original profile of the Nariz (left) and today (right)

You used to be able to ride on the roof of the train (photo by J. Mendozová)