Chile (August 31st - September 2nd)

Arica proved Chile's reputation as one of the most expensive countries in South America. Western impression was further underlined by modern clothing (and perfume usage) of local people as well as paved and quite clean streets full of global chains. However, the overall architectural style was a non-definable mix of totally different buildings.

Don Madonarra trying to call home

Don Madonarra again, this time enjoying local McFlurry to overcome sadness after unsuccesful call

Having a free evening, the expeditionists took advantage of discounts due to National Cinema Day and went for a Chilean movie called "Myths & Legends", which was about card game players who accidently entered the world of their heroes. Similar to the local architecture, the plot was a blend of odd infantile gags as well as serious should-be-crying moments so the spectator was left unsure whether the movie is intended to be taken seriously or as a comedy. Still it was worth watching at least for hearing Chilean Spanish and for seeing quite good quality of camera and special effects that was uncomparable to other local South American movies.

Miguel Hudeiro and El Fredovito choosing a movie

To save some time, the adventurers took an overnight bus further south. After several pointless security checks in the middle of the night they finally stepped on the dusty streets of San Pedro de Atacama. This picturesque but quite touristic town provided a good opportunity for regeneration. As the prices in restaurants were unsuprisingly high, the adventurers decided to cook by themselves. Under the supervision of El Fredovito, as usual tasty and unnamable dishes were prepared. Yummy!

Pointless security check at 4 am - all luggage from the bus had to go out

Dusty streets of San Pedro de Atacama

The adventurers trying out local accessories

El Fredovito magically summoning delicious meal

Dinner table prepared by Don Madonarra
(from the left: salad, fried sausages, avocado sauce, pasta and mangos)

The expeditionists decided to spend one day exploring surrounding Atacama desert and its lagoons on rented bikes. At first, the sun illuminated large plains and mountains on the horizon, but it didn't take too long and almost romantic trip suddenly turned into exhausting fitness excercise in the middle of a desert storm. The sand blinded their eyes and made the ride almost impossible. For a while they fought it hoping to reach their afternoon destination (Laguna Cejar), but the nature won. They had to turn back and pedal against the strong wind, which felt like being on a fitness bike ("rotoped") with high gear switched on. The 20 kilometers back to the town took them almost 4 hours. Tired but satisfied for having a new adventurous experience, they again enjoyed a delicious self-cooked dinner and went to bed to be ready for the next day, when one of the biggest highlights of the whole trip would begin - trip to Salar de Uyuni.

May the Maya be with you! :)

El Fredovito and Don Madonarra on their bikes

Miguel Hudeiro on a bike one hour later