Einat Gonen
Israeli woman missing in Ecuador found by rescue team
Israeli search crew dispatched to South America locates Einat Gonen of Herzliya, 36, believed to have lost her way while hiking in Podocarpus National Park
The Israeli hiker missing in Ecuador since Monday has been found by the Israeli rescue team sent after her and is reportedly in good health.
Einat Gonen, 36, of Herzliya went missing Monday while hiking in the Podocarpus National Park in southern Ecuador.
"We're ecstatic. Einat is safe and sound, we've spoken to her and she's fine. We don't know the details yet, but the important thing is that she's healthy," her mother told Ynet.
An Israeli search crew was sent to South America to aid the efforts, including her father and brother. The Israeli consul in Quito also joined the search, heading out from where Gonen was last seen.
Gonen's sister Inbal told Ynet on Wednesday morning, "She and another guy went on a four-hour circular route. She passed it and moved forward, and that was the last time he saw her."
Local investigators believe Gonen lost her way and continued on a side path.
Some 50 hikers and local residents searched for Gonen with the help of a helicopter, made difficult by harsh weather conditions and dense vegetation in the area.
Gonen arrived in South America for a six-week hike along with a person who has toured the area many times before.
Initial information received via Red Email
