The trip to Bolivia’s high desert was a long, long drive with multiple stops on the way. The landscape and rock formations were straight out of a sci-fi movie. There were times that we were driving on roads that were invisible; no tracks, no signs, just more brown gravel. Every so often we would stop to see an amazing lagoon filled with flamingos, a nice pink to brighten the desolation.

Another “high”light were the animals we spotted. Llamas are domesticated and are the source of both food and wool, while a similar animal known as guanacos live wild in the high altitudes. We also saw viscachas (think rabbit with a long tail) and a friendly hungry fox.

The diversity of landscapes in Bolivia delight geologists and tourists alike. The Sajama lines, the Salvador Dali Desert, Valle de la Luna, and the Uyuni Salt Flats are just a few of the unusual areas.

And of course, that night I would stay at the highest hotel in the world, Takya del Desierto, at 14’839 feet. We had already reached 16,000 feet earlier that day and I truly thought I may perish overnight. I actually slept in my clothes (it was cold) but also in case I needed to crawl out in the hall in hopes someone would find me in time to save me. My chest did feel like an elephant was sitting on me and each breath was extremely labored. I was happy that there was no electricity or internet at the time (limited hours daily) so that I could not ask Dr. Google how much longer I would survive.

Both my driver and guide were thrilled with their country, loved sharing the scenery and kept me amused with their choice of music during the long drive. We shared meals, histories, and thoughts with each other and I dare say we all learned a great deal!