2geonomads

Sunday 15th March 2015

Early start at 7.00 am.

Initially drive through very flat country to Esperanza where we enjoy a fine lunch. Traverse the pampas and encounter very high winds all through this very barren area.

It’s quite a relief to spend some time on the bus as the old limbs are recovering from the trek of the previous day.

Cross the Santa Cruz and La Leona rivers on the way to El Chalten.

The border crossing between Chile and Argentina is a real eye-opener with the Customs/ Immigration area on the Chilean side the epitome of efficiency and professionalism. In sharp contrast the checks and controls on the Argentinian side are carried out in ramshackle rooms with no heating or lighting where officials are forced to squint myopically at documents. Truly reminiscent of some Third World countries that we have visited.

During the subsequent drive we stop for a break at La Leone, famous for Butch Cassidy having been there. Photos also abound of famous mountaineer, Tony Egger who was the first man to climb Cerro Torre.

As we approach El Chalten we start to catch glimpses of Cerro Torre and the iconic Mount Fitzroy.

Arrive at El Puma Osteria in El Chalten late afternoon. A delightful spot with superb accommodation but almost non-existent internet connection.

We say goodbye to driver Luiz who has been absolutely marvellous.

I have to dig deeply into my memory bank to thank Luiz in Spanish for all his great work but it seems to work out OK.

As usual Shan is her demanding self , especially in respect of the decidedly lousy internet but when she sees that Heinz is still not well she surprises him and Pat with a bottle of red wine to help him on his way. She is quite mercurial , not say eccentric!

Situated in the heart of Los Glaciares Nat Park El Chalten is an attractive if very touristy town founded in 1980’s to strengthen Argentina’s  hold on this disputed area.

Dine at one of the many fine local restaurants which offers a set menu but very fine food.

Weather now taking a very definite turn for the worse and apparently more to come.

In bed by 10.30 with the amazingly high winds whistling around the hotel eaves.

Cheers

The Obese Ferret