Just to let you all know that I survived the 27km bike ride down Cotapaxi!! Reached an altitude of 4500m, really beautiful scenery with snow capped Cotapaxi looming. Rather apprehensive when informed that it's the largest active volcano in the world (2m higher than Kilimanjaro!). Rather pleased with helmet, knee and elbow pads when i spectacularly fell on the 2nd bend - although did look rather attractive!! Have beautiful bruise on my leg for my efforts. Luckily no altitude effects although shattered by end of day and in bed by 9!! Keep the messages coming Jenxxxxx