August 8, 2011
The entire team and their luggage have now arrived in La Paz, which is a great start! Today we took care of a lot of chores.
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- San Francisco Cathedral. (Photo by Greg Vernovage)
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- LaPaz with Illimani behind it. (Photo by Greg Vernovage)
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- Chow time at La Comedie. (Photo by Greg Vernovage)
El Alto, where we land, is over 13,000 feet and then we drop into La Paz at about 12,500. Â The keys to success today are to not move to fast, stay hydrated and get familiar with our teammates. Â This team is taking care of these things very well. Â We walked to the local grocery store and stocked up on a few more snacks and water.
I met with a one of our Bolivian guides and went over logistics for the climb. Â Last week, the mountain received a new layer of snow and the report is that all of our peaks are in great condition for climbing.
This afternoon was gear check time, it always goes a bit easier when all of the gear shows up. Â Everyone is checked out and making two duffels, much like Everest, a trekking duffel and a Base Camp duffel. Â It is pretty amazing how much Bolivia reminds me of the Himalaya. Â The landing is much like if you fly into Lhasa. Â The announcement comes on reminding you of your elevation and to not move to quickly. Â Acclimatization is like anywhere, patience and taking care of yourself.
We will take a walking tour around the city of La Paz tomorrow, visiting the San Francisco Cathedral, the Witches Market, Old Town La Paz and end up on a sweet little overlook higher in the city with great views of Illimani. Â La Paz is decorated with the brightest colors you can find. Â Friday was the celebration of their independence; 186 years I am told. Â Probably a good thing this team missed that party.
We ended the day with a great dinner a nice restaurant. Â Trout is one of the great foods of Bolivia, it did not let us down. Â Great dinner at La Comedie!
Greg Venovage