Paso de Jama: From Purmamarca to San Pedro de Atacama

I wanted to ride back over the Andes to San Pedro de Atacama in Chile. This would be my launchpad for adventures in the Sud Lipez region of southern Bolivia. In order to get to San Pedro, I chose to ride the 409 km route over Paso de Jama. It's sealed all the way, but with two high points over 4800 m, it still presents a bit of a challenge. Suffering a bit of diarrhoea and with a bike heavily loaded with food and water, I set off on the initial 2200 m climb out of Purmamarca...

The colours of Purmamarca.

Leaving Purmamarca bound for the first high point, 

The valley outside of Purmamarca.

High up on the pass, late in the day.

Next morning, first highpoint (Cuesta de Lipan) achieved!

On the Salinas Grande, the largest salt flats in the area. 

Salt is actively mined here.

By digging down to the watertable, the water is allowed to evaporate, leaving behind the salt. 

This car wreck outside the town of Susquez is a perfect metaphor for the town itself. 

Riding out of Susquez the next morning. Pure freedom. 

The ubiquitous red earth of this region, tinged with salt.

Coca leaves.  I confess to doping! One mouthful was enough and I gave the rest away, I didn't really need it. 

Next highpoint at the Paso de Jama international border. 

Super windy but I found a sheltered spot.

Sunrise the next morning. The key was to start early to beat the afternoon wind. 

Hot springs - it's a volcanic region. 

This swamp near the road was one of the few places after the border where driblable water was available. 

Approaching 4800 m above sealevel.

A view to the Bolivian Altiplano, where I'm headed next.

Descending 2400 m past Volcan Liscancabur (L) to San Pedro de Atacama in northern Chile. 

A well-earned meal :-)