Isla del Sol

Written on 08-08-14 at Isla del Sol 

We started the morning by lazing around in the hammocks at the hotel before catching the boat for Isla del Sol, a small Island in Lake Titicaca, just off the Bolivian Coast. We arrived in a picturesque, paradise-like setting. The only downfall being that there was a 1 km climb up to the village, there are no cars on the island (as well as no running water or internet). We hired a local to carry Capucine's bag so as not to add to her knee injury. The little man sped up the hill while Cécile, who was not feeling in tiptop shape, suffered during the steep ascent. Luckily Capucine was there for her every step of the way (even when she had a break every three steps). Once we (finally) arrived at the hotel she slid under the covers and Francois entertained himself by piling covers on top of her. However, after nine layers she was still shivering and Francois and Capucine generously offered to get under the covers with her (it's well known that body warmth is the most effective). After a lot of giggling (encouraged by Francois's entertaining funny stories), she gradually warmed up and Capucine and Francois left for dinner. 

After having walked for a while in the village in search of a restaurant recommended by the guide, we picked a restaurant invested by French tourists. Three other frenchies joined us at our table. They were rather special indeed, as the two parents seemed to already have travelled the world and their son, only about eight, had seen at least half of it. 

This morning we all woke up motivated for the day's hike around the island. We set off with our pack lunches. The island's scenery is extremely different from anything we have seen in Bolivia so far. The day was cloudy but it gave the light a stunning dimension as it reflected off the mountains. 

We strayed slightly off the path and found ourselves climbing through the agricultural terraces while strongly hoping we were heading in the right direction. We came across a lama standing in the middle of our path. After slightly wavering Capucine and Cécile stepped closer attempting to bypass him. However, he stared at us menacingly and... Spat at us!! We squealed and jumped away. We still can't believe we actually got spat at my a lama, talk about a cliche! After calming down we resumed our journey and rapidly found he path we were originally meant to be walking on. 

After four hours of walking, a lot of which was uphill, we arrived at the northern end of the island. We munched on our Bolivian sandwiches and recovered our energy for the way homes. We made it back in record time and set out to seek internet connection. Our efforts were in vain and we ended up settling down in a small cosy restaurant. Capucine and Cécile shared a Hawaiian pizza which came with peaches... A touch of originality! 

Capucine, Francois and Cécile