Tucuman trekking

We only have a short time in Tucuman.  We did a bit of a walking tour the first afternoon and found ourselves at the main museum in town.  This was where the Declaration of Independence from Spain was signed to liberate Peru,  Chile and Argentina. They joined forces to defeat the Spanish,  but then fought each other for years after to severe ties from each other. 
The next day we headed for the hills again.  Not my favourite activity, but worth being out in nature for sure. 
We trekked for about 4 hours in the sun and high humidity.  Tucuman has sub tropical forests, so much of what we saw was up close dense vegetation.  It has been raining a lot,  so the mud made for some slippery slidy bits. 
Our destination was a late lunch of energy bars at a local waterfall.  We came across plenty of flora and fauna along the way.  The most distinct was a stray dog that seemed determined to lead us.  Our actual guide was a park ranger who didn't take to kindly to the dog as they are quite a pest in the park, but she realized quickly that she was out numbered by those of us that were happy to have a four legged leader.  The pup kept a close eye on all of us,  often running ahead to scope out the next ridge or path,  then looping back to trot along side the last person in the group, often me.  The dog made sure that the horses and cows all cleared a path for her VIP guests.  There were a lot of wild horses in the area.  I tried to tap into my previous Circle R Ranch experience to approach one of them.  He let me get a bit close,  but it was obvious that no one is going to control these animals.  They look in good health and they certainly have lots of good food options.  It was such an humbling feeling to be in the presence of these graceful and intelligent creatures.  They allow you within their space, not the other way around.
We made it to the much anticipated waterfall.  It was a perfect oasis at the end of a hot hike.  After a quick bite we made our way into the cool water.  A couple of my tour mates went all the way into.  They are the young yolo types.  Most of us,  just took off our sweaty sneakers and sox to cool our feet.  Ahhh! Sun on your shoulders,  cool water between your toes and the calming sound of water tumbling over the rocks.  Just breath and be grateful. 
Before boarding the bus back to the city we had one last handful of the wild blackberries and mulberries that were plentiful.  Nothing like stained fingers and lips from freshly picked berries.  One last moment with our doggy guide was a tough goodbye for us all.  She ran beside the bus for at least a kilometre before turning back. 
Our return to the hotel mid afternoon allowed for a good scrub down and a short siesta.  We headed out in the evening to find a place where we could watch the all important Argentina vs Brazil soccer match.  Got to support the locals.  We got ourselves some great steaks,  cold beer and a big screen TV.  Unfortunately,  it was not a great game,  but what do I know.  A few of us headed back to hotel bar,  which seemed to be a local bar for townies.  Lots of great charm. We caught the last minutes of the draw game.  However,  apparently a draw was still good thing in Argentina given the number of car horns and rousing applause the locals provided. 
This evening played out as we also learned about the tragic events unfolding in Paris.  I as I write about my incredible good fortune to experience new cultures, visit these remarkable places and turn complete strangers into close friends in less than a week,  I am also reflecting on how Paris,  a favourite destination of mine will never be the same.  I am grateful for having been able to travel so extensively and make this world seem so attainable.  I hope I will always have these opportunities.  My thoughts today are with all those that have been impacted by any form of violence.  Peace.