Bolivia

Seems like spending two weeks per country has been our norm, and Bolivia was no exception. It is truly the Wild West of South America, a land of surreal landscapes, questionable infrastructure, and baby llama drama. Oh and the country is cheap, which is music to this backpacker’s ears. We hit up most of the main tourist spots–entering overland via Copacabana on Lake Titicaca, and exiting overland as well into San Pedro de Atacama, Chile. I think if I had some extra time (and in non rainy season), I would have tried to see Tupiza for the landscapes and Tarija for the wine, but neither is a regrettable miss at is point.

So here is our journey:

Peru

After spending nearly two weeks in Peru, I feel like I’ve seen only a tiny sliver of the country. I can now check Machu Picchu off the bucket list (albeit sans the Inca Trail), but I have yet to see Nazca lines, Amazon rainforest, and a slew of other sights that Peru offers.

After Colombia, Yus and I met in Lima. I flew in, and he arrived overland via Equador through Piura. His way was much cheaper, but took more time, but that is a constant trade off in South America. Below is a list of places we saw along with some hopefully helpful logistical information.

Colombia

Two weeks in Colombia flew by. We actually spent a day in Bogota but didn’t find much to see outside La Candelaria and ate American food, so it was not really post worthy, but I will include a couple photos in this one (below). Overall, Colombia is a definitive GO. I think many Americans are scared of it because of the reputation of the past, but traveling throughout the country, it was obvious that it is pretty safe and it is booming. The road infrastructure leaves something to be desired, but flying is really easy (try ViVa Colombia, Satena, EasyFly if Avianca and LAN too expensive). Oh and male readers of the blog: the ladies here are supremely easy on the eyes. Just ask Yus, he will back me up. Ladies, sorry to report but the dudes are a pass. So here is a quick summary of our Colombian adventure:

Easter Island

Rapa Nui, as it is called in the local language, is really a hidden gem. Isolated by thousands of kilometers from landmass and other islands, it offers an escape from everything rote, preconceived, expected. Unlike other island destinations, big name resorts do not hog the best real estate. There are modest hotels, cabanas, and some eco lodges. Everything on the island is at face value. You see how the locals live, because instead of being sheltered behind the gates of a resort, you can actually walk around town, hike ,bike, drive fully confident in the safety and you’ll be pleasantly surprised when everyone you pass waves hello. The island is so small you can see most of the sights in 3-4 days, but you can definitely spend so much more time just hanging out, diving, surfing, etc. The entire island is an archeological sight…an open air museum!

Patagonia Recap

Two weeks in Patagonia flew by. Yus and I spent them doing the W Trek in Torres del Paine National Park and checking out El Calafate and El Chalten. Below are some stats and fun facts.

South America Plan

We are spending December – February in South America. Highlights include, Buenos Aires parillas, Patagonia Trekking, potentially Easter Island, Colombia for New Year’s, Machu Picchu in Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil for the cherry on the cake in the form of Carnival.