Day 22 – Tuesday, February 17, 2026

The night at the petrol station was quite relaxing, for €2, I was able to use the washing machine and had a shower both in the evening and the morning. I had a good omelette sandwich for breakfast.

At first, I was not a happy fellow. It was cool, overcast, grey and the scenery was rather dull. The road kept creeping uphill and the buildup of the ridden miles was painstaking.

A pickup truck slowed and stopped next to me. The driver offered to drive me to the next large town, Calama,, some 2 hours away by car. I was tempted, but declined respectfully. Granted, it was not a nice area, I had head wind, but then I am also a bit crazy. He then gave me a bottle of Pepsi. I feel a bit emotional seeing some much kindness around me . Luckily, the situation improved - it was time to get rid of my sweater and the scenery became more appealing. I was actually quite glad I chose the biking option. I crossed the Tropic of Capricorn, rode along huge copper mines, blossomig cactii and even had some tail wind - my mood improved a lot. I would say this ride would not make it to the favorite of most folks- but I had a good day.

I made a small rest in a small desert town called Baquedano, from there onward it got really hot, the sun was burning - and there was no shade whatsoever. Next to the road were remains of 19th century settlements.

I ended up in a mining town called Sierra Gorda, having ridden 122 km and ascending 1,100 meters - the road kept inclining through the entire day. There are a number of accommodations in town, but they are either closed or are occupied by the mine workers.

Now I am waiting in a nice playground for the kids to retire before pitching my tent. Alas, they seem to have a lot of energy...

A pickup truck stopped next to me and offered to drive me to the next large town, Calama,, some 2 hours away by car. I was tempted, but declined respectfully. Granted, this is not a nice area, I have head wind, but then I am also a bit crazy. He then gave me a bottle of Pepsi. I feel a bit emotional seeing some much kindness around me .

The night at the petrol station was quite relaxing, for €2, I was able to use the washing machine and… See more

At 7 pm, I spotted a petrol station. Checking ny map, the next sign of civilization is 40 km away - and that uphill - this I did not want to risk. So I am a nonpaying camping guest, with very friendly lorry drivers striking up a conversation with me. There iare a gleaming clean and modern showers with hot water (abd Dyson drier) for €0.80 and free Wi-Fi. In Playa del Ingles, I paid €15 for a camping without either luxuries...Good night!