We spent the last week in Sorata...a truly beautiful mountain town. It is located north of La Paz, Bolivia at the base of Mt. Illampu (a 21,000ft + peak)...above is a view of the mountain from the town square. We spent most days just relaxing, reading and eating. Fortunately, with some good drugs, my intestional problems seemed to have subsided. The last day before leaving we managed to hike up to a alpine lake in the shadow of Mt. Illumpu...quite stunning. We were hoping to spend a couple of nights there, but due to my slow recovery and the crazy politics of the guide services in Sorata we ended up just doing a day hike. Just a few days before we arrived the community guide association decided to raise their prices by 4 times. Thus we went with a "non sanctioned guide" for a cheaper price, but had to sneak into a taxi to get out of town, only to be "discovered" during the hike by a sanctioned guide who proceeded to chew out our guide. It was quite interesting to be in the middle of small town politics, but sad to see how the community was essentially shooting itself in the foot in regards to tourism. Below is a photo of us at the base of the mounatain - it was great hike although we were both sore after hiking down 5000 feet back to Sorata.
Tomorrow we are going to Huayna Potosi. Jen will hang out at base camp (and maybe try some ice climbing the first day), while I attempt to climb the mountain. I don`t feel that confident at the moment. My plans in terms of proper conditioning and acclimatization have been messed up because of my illness, but we will see what happens. After the mountain we come back to La Paz and immediately head out for a three day jungle/river trip, followed by a three day "Pampas" tour (think grasslands, swamps, and lots of animals). And then we try to exit the country as quick as possible. Thus you may not hear from us for a week or so...
3 comments:
so sorry you got sick Andrew... be careful and just enjoy. Did you see that Amy had her baby? Nelida Day is our precious little sunbeam. I hope Gary and I get to meet her this weekend. Jen and Andrew, you are so adventurous, how are you going to adjust to the tame life back home??
It sounds like a good time down there . We will definitely have to set up a time to join you on another trip in the coming years. It looks like if we both survive we will be getting back to the states about the same time. I look forward to actually getting to talk to you guys. Take care and be safe.
Yeah, there are pictures now!! Cool pic's of Mt's I'm jealous. I was watching the movie "Into The Wild" last night and I think I need to climb Mt. McKinley. You want to come Andrew?
Hope your feeling better as well. Call us when your back in the States. Take care both of you.
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