Day 247 - Crossing into Peru

(Ursula) We left Arica this morning and drove the 10 Miles to the Chile/Peru border.

Leaving Chile wasn’t as easy as we thought. What a hassle.

We had to return to Arica to get a permit from the Chilean Transit Police to leave the country officially. Perhaps we stole a once of bloody sand from their bloody desert?

Getting everything done at the same office would have been too much to ask. No, we had to take the permit to another building and pay for an official seal of approval.

On the other hand, things went much smoother on the Peruvian side. They didn’t even search the inside of the camper or the roof rack. What a relief!

(Ursula) The first Peruvian town after the border crossing was Tacna. We refueled at Petroperú and were impressed by the much lower gas prices. What a pleasant surprise after what we paid Chile.

A little further, we stopped at a VW dealership to have the “trouble” tire replaced and a new rear blinker glass installed. Fortunately, they carried the same Michelin we needed. However, they wouldn’t accept US$ Traveler Checks.

Luckily, another customer overheard the conversation and was nice enough to help us with the exchange. With all tires in good condition, we started the “Altiplano” adventure with greater confidence.

The road gradually climbed higher and higher into the Andes. After Tarata, we both felt light-headed, and Heinz decided we camp right there on the side of the road.

As I stepped out to empty the Büsi litter box, it felt like my heart was going on strike. What was going on? Heinz felt the same way and was getting nauseous. We lay down for a while, feeling hungry but without an appetite.

Then it dawned on us. We were experiencing altitude sickness. No Wonder! Six hours ago, we were in Tacna at 1,800 feet and were now at 11,032 feet.

Aside from that, we were so excited to be on our way to the (long anticipated) Altiplano. So much more to explore!

Stats: Miles 130, Expenses $13.24Read more