There are many roads in the world - from little country roads, to giant six lane interstate highways, but there is only one "DEATH ROAD."
So, yesterday I managed to survive risking my life mountain biking down what's literally called "Camino del Muerte," or "Death Road," with my three new Sweedish friends (yes we're still getting on great and on somewhat of the same backpacking path - at least for now). It is one of the must-do experiences here in Bolivia, just south of La Paz, and the adrenaline rush was one I just couldn't pass up. Mountain biking from a freezing cold 4,700 meters down to a steamy warm 1,100... all in five hours!!!!! Let's just say Six Flags' Mr. Freeze (0 to 60 mph) has nothing on this death defying flight down the mountain! It was an exhiliarating, at times freakishly scary, AMAZINGLY beautiful experience that I won't do again! We had a small group, only the four of us, and a wonderful guide (who was leading the way) and driver (bringing up the tail at all times) who helped us with everything from providing chocolate and coke to changing flat tires! We rode speeding down asphalt, then switched to pure gravel with sheer dropoffs that would make your heart skip a beat. Anyone remember the Alaska highway with it's hairpin curves (mom, dad, grandma)??? Yeah, something like that. This used to be the only "highway" from the town where I am now up to La Paz and there were SO many accidents it recieved it's somewhat unfortunate, but completely deserved nickname. Even more unfortunately, there continue to be many accidents including at least one a year with the crazy tourists who don't take all the precautions to go down safely.
HOWEVER, I said a big thank you to God last night when we all made it down safely without any injuries or mishaps.
It was a beautiful (literally, the views were unbelievable) day that we topped off with an evening in the Bolivian version of a Mexican Cantina... pretty entertaining!
Hope all is well in your corners of the world,
Much love, KK
Be careful. Just so you weren't as crazy as that dune buggy driver on the sand dunes.
ReplyDeleteLove mom
Kate, there didn't happen to be a guide, with the last name Lange, on that Death mountain biking experience? Let me know...
ReplyDeleteDear Kate, that bike race left me breathless, exhausted and thankful, that you did it and survived without any major accidents or injuries;It reminded me of curves the bus navigated. Your guardian angels were watching over you! Sunsets are meditation time, and one of Grand'mas favorites! Audrey's scripture reference is one I've claimed, lean not to your own understanding, but trust in the Lord. One day at a time Dear Lord, keep praying, seek His guidance, wisdom, discretion, He has a plan, and will help you in your decisions. Grand'ma will be praying too! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY SPECIAL NAMESAKE! Sending you the biggest old hug, Grand'ma LOVES YOU SO MUCH! Happy you have friends to travel with, and are having so many never-to-be forgotten adventures; My how your Gramps would've enjoyed hearing about them. May your birthday be special like you....
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