Samaipata

On our way to Santa Cruz, we passed by the old Inca fortress El Fuerte in Samaipata. After weeks in the desert, the eyes enjoy green forests. We have now arrived in a prelude to the rainforest. Unfortunately, it is still the rainy season, so we always have to plan our trips very well (mainly asphalt roads) so that we don't have any major problems if we are surprised by a rain shower. Shortly before our arrival in Samaipata, it must have rained. All the dirt roads were muddy and the streams and rivers flooded their banks.

Just clarified if the access road to the Inca site is asphalted, and let's go. It was still adventurous because the rain washed away all the sandy rock from the mountain onto the road, which caused our tires to spin from time to time. Then we just went through a river and Tada! We're there.

One thing you have to give the Bolivians credit for is that they take very good care of their historical sites. Everything is clean and well-explained, and even the English is understandable (which we have never experienced before!).

El Fuerte was not only an Inca settlement but also a religious site. Incas came from all over to bring gifts to the gods and participate in traditional masses. When the Spaniards conquered Bolivia, El Fuerte was almost completely destroyed. Now rebuilt and spruced up, it is accessible to the public. Going back down was just as adventurous as going up.