Day 3 those of us up for a challenge woke up for a 7k hike
at a higher altitude (3200m or almost 12000ft). The scenery today was
unlike what we had seen before... Instead of being on the moon or Mars
or in the red rocks, it felt like we could have been in Arizona with
cactus and scrubby vegetation, huge rock formations and a little river
running through the canyon. It is incredible how many different
landscapes exist in this desert. We hiked along the foothills of the
Andes up to Puritama hot springs. This area is a private reserve
managed by explora with a private hot spring pool for us. I can tell you
it felt amazing to soak in the springs after 2 hours of hiking up in
that altitude under the hot desert sun!
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| Mauricio & Gina |
Although my body wanted to take the afternoon off and get a
spa treatment in the traditional adobe spa hut at explora, or relax by
the pool, I didn't want to miss another experience in the desert. So
after lunch we went off again on a bike ride with Camilla into the
Devils Gorge. This was a beautiful canyon with smooth white walls... The
energy of the place is palpable and we stopped for a bit to take in the
silence and let the nature seep into our bones. It's truly a physical
and spiritual experience to be in this place.
Tonight we were all TIRED! A quiet dinner and early to bed... an exhausted group is the sign of a full and happy day!
On Day 4 at Atacama I spent the morning seeing other lodges
that my clients have experienced or that I wanted to know. The good
news is that they are all different but all wonderful and for a
different traveler... so whoever you are, there is a perfect match for
you in the Atacama Desert.
This afternoon we went out on our final excursion. Vernie
took me and Peter out to the Valle Arco Iris (Rainbow Valley) where red
rock hills meet money-green peaks and contrast with white-purple salt
formations... All due to the different minerals making up the earth.
Another amazement of how different this desert can be.
We were sad to leave explora and the Atacama Desert. I
usually recommend 4 nights here and I will never let another traveler
stay less! I could have used another day to do another excursion and
also have a half day at leisure to enjoy the spa and pool. There is just
so much to do and experience, and for all levels of activity and
interest.
We are off to Santiago for a quick overnight and then Easter Island tomorrow!
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