The Peru Bolivia border by Lake Titicaca is closed for us because of Peruvian mining protests.
For the last 17 days, the Peruvian side of the border as far back as Puno has been blockaded by protesters, who are concerned that a large mine proposed for the area will destroy the local environment. It just happens that the large mine is proposed by a Canadian company. :(
We had hoped that the blockade would have been cleared by the time we were ready to travel south, but it looks to be intensifying, with the government sending in troops yesterday, and the federal election coming up in the next 5 days.
If it was me alone, I would try and run the blockade, as the protesters aren't too aggressive against travellers. But with Vanessa on the back, I don't want to take any chances.
We will remain in Cusco till tomorrow and see what happens, but may head west to Arequipa, and the Chilean border, and miss Bolivia. which would be a shame.
More information tomorrow...
Tim
Hey Tim,
ReplyDeleteIf you go to Arequipa, you may want to consider getting to the Colca Canyon north of Arequipa. Rough roads and high altitudes (15,600 ft I believe). About a 3 hour bus ride. You could ride it or maybe get a tour out of Arequipa. The Canyon is where the giant Condors soar and it is very cool. They fly right over you with 10 - 15 feet or so. Very neat.....
Take care,
The Stalker.
Oops, that's "within" 10-15 feet, not "with" 10-15 feet!!!!!
ReplyDeleteTim
ReplyDeleteDon't you be running any borders. You'll end up in some Bolivian prison.
Mom
I have been reading your blog since Baja Mexico.
ReplyDeleteGreat reading mate. I am starting my trip in two weeks time as soon as my bike will get from Oz to LA.
++1 for Colca Canyon.
Actually the exact place which back in 2009 inspired me for my current bike trip.
If you go there don't take any organized tours: once you don't need it and second their tight schedule make you rush through too quickly and force you to get up in the morning at the ridiculous times.
This is strenuous walk but well worth it. If Vanessa finds it to hard there is always an option to be carried out by mule. Locals make living out of this. :-)
And the condors are great. About 10am when the valley heats up and creates thermals they are coming from nowhere. Perfect Opportunity for the great pics.