Bolivia > Walking through Takesi

Bolivia - As the trail descends the scenery becomes greener and more beautiful

During the night, it turns out the tent was set up quite unevenly. As a result, the air mattress shifts, and I often end up lying against the cold, wet tent fabric. The tent isn’t very spacious to begin with. The sound of the river also prompts frequent trips to the toilet. Despite this, I slept reasonably well. In the morning, I am ready for another day of hiking. Breakfast is served at eight o’clock. Meanwhile, the tents are taken down, and the luggage is loaded onto the mules. Around nine o’clock, we continue our journey. Today’s route is mostly downhill. We had slept at around 3,800 meters last night, and today’s final destination lies at roughly 2,000 meters. The weather is not as nice as we had hoped; it’s cloudy, limiting the view of the mountains. Nevertheless, we set off. We stop in a small village for lunch. The clouds have lifted, giving us a spectacular view over the valley. The landscape is becoming increasingly green and lush. Since the valley is sheltered from the wind, it enjoys a tropical climate. After resuming the hike, Harm injures his right knee. He borrows a knee brace but can now only descend the mountain backward—a real challenge. Down by the river is the second campsite.

Bolivia - Overnight at the base of the Takesi trail

I arrive around three o’clock. Shortly after four, everyone—including Harm—has arrived. Some of the more adventurous take a swim in the river. As darkness falls, a campfire is lit. At seven o’clock, dinner is served around the fire. Meanwhile, the river has turned into a powerful current, no longer suitable for wading. Due to sluice gates being opened upstream, water rushes past the campsite with a loud roar. Fortunately, no one was swimming during this change. Around half past eight, we go to bed. Sleeping at a much lower altitude makes it feel far less chilly, and I quickly fall asleep.