After picking up the bike from KTM Mendoza we had a later than expected start so the day was already heating up rapidly. The guys from the shop guided us out of town and onto the northern motorway which saved us a lot of time and hassle. The goal for the day was the town of de Jachal. Asmall country village but with great motel like accommodation, even having a welcome air-conditioning unit. San Blas was the next destination while still following Ruta 40. It turned out to be a nothing of a town with only one average hostal and a long main street, as the town followed the nearby river. Saturday night and it was hoon time up and down the street. All racing to see who was fastest and loudest with bike against bike and bike against car. We were pleased to leave early the next day and headed for the lovely country town of Cafayate, famous for it’s very old wineries. We had two nights there and made use of the hotel swimming pool, a first so far. This far north things are really starting to heat up and dry out. Some places are facing water shortages this early in the summer.
From Cafayate we left Ruta 40 and headed for Salta, San Salvador de Jujuy on Ruta 9 and are currently laying over for a few nights in the small town of Tilcara. .A town famous for its position on the old Inca route from Argentina to Boliva. The Indian culture is immense here. Many famous battles with the Spanish have taken place in this area so it is steeped in history and myth.
We are currently sitting at 7500 feet above sea level. Yesterday we went and saw the Hill of Seven Colours at 14,500 feet above sea level and boy did I feel the effects of being that high. A bit light headed, a windy stomach and a bit short of breath, especially when having to push the 4x4 to get it started again. More on that another time. It was a good excuse to try the coca leaves. Tastes very much like green tea, but when you have about 20 leaves stuffed into the left side of the mouth it makes for hard conversation. It seemed to help so will have to try it again. To the locals it’s a very important commodity that comes down across the border from Boliva.
Tomorrow we will leave and all going well we will cross the border into Chile to meet up with Oliver and Julie before we cross into Peru.
Thanks to everyone for your e mails from home. We love to keep in touch.
1 comment:
Hi you two
You seem to be having a great time; it must be good to finally get rid of the thermals.
The photos continue to be amazing. But not sure whether it’s the altitude or the coca leaves which could be making you light headed. Say hi to Oliver and Julie from me.
Ride Safe
Big Sam
Post a Comment