The Road to Potosi - 4

Friday 11th July

Minus 15 again last night, and shortness of breath prevents good sleep. Dani noting the climb in the background, simply will not leave until his makeup is right...



Looking back down the climb towards the camp site beyond the town of Agua de Castilla...



We´re at 4400m again and it should be all downhill from here...



I just love the downhills. Sometimes just a bit too much. I lose the bike in the sand again as the road turns twisty...



In my defense, the road is nasty in parts...



And the descent continues...



Just a little too much. We undershoot Potosi´s 4060 metres by 200 as the road arcs past the city perched against the hills... It´s a cruel blow as the city streets up to the plaza are vertiginous and we arrive at our destination not in triumph, but as gasping, winded creatures, much to the amusement of the Potosinas.



My camera, straining against all the sand I have been filling it with on each fall from the bike, finally decides it´s all too much and grinds to a halt. The lens motor dies and will move no more. This is the last picture it will ever take.... Faithful servant of 2 cycle tours it will receive a ceremonial burial in Potosi - the world´s highest city and a fitting resting place. Nikon Coolpix L4 I salute you!