The days in and around Putre in the most northern Chile was very impresive – and a good warm-up for the higher grounds in Bolivia.
The first full day I spent on a semi long solo trekking tour down a valley to observe some 6.000 year old archaeological ruins formning a farming culture – not much to see but stone henges and terrasses. The surrounding mountains was spectacular in colors and the pathway at some points very challenging both with steep drops and high climps.
Walking in this altitude really stresses your body – so the 12.8kms was done in just over 3 hours – not impressive at sea level – but ok here in these conditions …
Saving some fuel as the nearest fuelstation is 140km away or in Bolivia, these days with some rest was good to me. The last day in Putre I drove up to a new high altitude level of 4.662 masl to view the Volcán Parinacota and the Lago Chungará – the vulcano is over 6.000 m high and all year snow covered. The top of the vulcano splits Chile and Bolivia, so scientist needed to investigate the vulcano needs special permits as their are crossing the borders with no control.
Coming back down I also took a quick look at La Chucoyo – another little part of this National Park Lauca with many local wild animals such as the Vicuñas and the Guanacos.
Next is Bolivia, so now preparing for the border crossing and accomodation with safe parking – this is definitely not as easy as in Chile. Bolivia is a much poorer country and with less access to both internet, booking services etc. that a luxury adventure biker likes.
