March 4, 2000
Day 134 Humahuaca: climbing gradually and Carnival
Today we have an altitude gain of almost 500 meters over 45-50 km. Again, we climb gradually following the Quelrada and the scenery is awesome. About 15km from Tilcara we cross the Topic of Capricorn. A small obelisk and a larger sundial like monument mark the spot. Of course, we stop for photos.
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We pass through or by a couple of small villages especially Huacalera and Uquia have nice adobe style, whitewashed churches. A few clouds but mostly sunny today, because of the altitude it doesn't feel so hot, but the sun is very strong. Sunscreen and sunglasses are needed.
We arrive in Humahueca at about noon and immediately notice the crowds.
It's Carnival!
Everywhere are people quite a few backpackers and food stalls everywhere. We cross the river in search of the cabanas we had information on. The municipal campground is right across the river but the proximity to town and its festivities noise makes it undesirable. We find the cabanas but i has been reserved for tonight plus the price has doubled due to carnival. We can pitch our tent though, there is a shady spot and a toilet/shower with only cold water. The price is $10 but apart from the municipal campground it is unlikely we will find anything better.
We rake an area to level a spot for our tent, get it pitched just as a thunderstorm comes across the valley. After we cleanup we walk back to town to see what is happening.
Everywhere there is noise and kids spraying foam from spray cans and throwing little balloons filled with talcum powder or water. Things get messy.
We walk up to the monument that the LP disliked so much, Plaza Dr. Ernesto Padilla. We shop for groceries. Tomorrow we will take a rest day here. Even though our accommodations are not as we would have liked, it is good to acclimatize at this altitude, plus a rest will do us good before the last push up the Altiplano and to the border.
Pancakes for dinner.
Today's ride: 50 km (31 miles)
Total: 4,351 km (2,702 miles)
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