Condors in flight

On a trip to Peru in October ’07, I went to Cruz del Cóndor, an observation point where the magnitude of the Colca Canyon can be appreciated. It is the best spot for seeing the spectacular condor.

Right on “schedule,” the condors began to fly. They are truly magnificent creatures. With wingspans of over 12 feet, they sail majestically on the updrafts that flow from the canyon floor, hardly moving their wings. They were awesome to observe.

The condors flew directly over our group before retreating to their cliff-side nests.

On the way back to the bus, we were given an opportunity to walk about a mile on a cliff-side trail. I initially decided to take the safer route back, but then I thought, ‘Hey, why not?’

About half of the route was directly on the cliff wall, and you could look down thousands of feet to the valley below. I’m not sure why I did this hike, because I really get vertigo when I try these things. Anyway, I made it safely back and I was really pleased I took the challenge.

DAN HENIGE

Ontario, OH