Stage 17 Yala to Salta 122k 1268m climb

Beautiful country green trees and grass around. Felt so much better at the lower altitude and was able to ride with Anna and a couple of others all day. Interesting that at altitude my heart rate didn’t get above 125 but now on the hills up to 145 150 again. Most interesting. Can only assume that my lungs couldn’t get enough oxygen into the system to allow the heart rate to get up.
Was a timing day so was pleased to be able to keep up. Farm land looks very prosperous in comparison to the high plains of Bolivia. Up through a long climb over the pass to salta. Canopy overhead. Stunning not too unlike up over twonga gap.
Our bunch found a coke stop on the way down. Very friendly locals, brought out chairs and tables. very hospitable.
Then through a deserted Salta on a Sunday afternoon. Very clean and Anna navigates us to the municipal camp site. Pretty basic with a massive empty pool! Dusty etc so Anna and I head to town for a hotel bed for three nights. Like a real weekend. The mid way party that night at the camp site. Lots of food music wine and dancing. Helped set up and recovered my la Paz bowler from the truck.
Back at the hotel at midnight.