We left La Paz after breakfast and followed the same
road out onto the high plain. Not long after reaching the high
plain, the bumpy road journey began. Rather interesting drive over
very rough roads passing through many little local settlements in such a
hostile looking environment.
(photo: Looking down on the ski resort buildings)
Chacaltaya is located in Bolivia's
Cordillera Real. Although it is a year-round snowfield, the lift is
generally open only during the rainy season. Skiing can be found as
early as mid-September though. During the colder dry season, the snow is
too hard and icy for safe skiing. Even in-season, the lift and bus only
operate on weekends
(photo: Ice on the closed slopes)
Skiing was not our aim though ..... the visit was so we
could have our first increase in altitude above 17,000ft (5000m.)
(photo: Looking across to Huayna Potosi)
Once close to the resort, the road
started to climb up the steep rocky slopes to the lift area. Not a
journey for the weak hearted ...... or a vehicle with poor steering or brakes!
(photo: And another view of Potosi)
On reaching the end of the road at the resort, we had a
gentle 300ft walk to the highest point of Chacaltaya.
Although only a short distance, the pace had to be slow to allow for the
altitude. I began to get my first slight headache on the way up
...... a common altitude problem.
(photo: Paul on his way back down to the parking area)
Once at the top, we all had a 'stroll' around, took a few photos, then slowly returned to the parking area. After a hot drink, it was back on the bus for the 'hairy' drive back down to the 'good' road into La Paz.