| Nov 7, 2008 - Entering Peru | (click to enlarge)
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![](images/2008312140336444-thumb.jpg) | Welcome into Peru
| | All roads coming into Tacna were litered with rocks & glass
| | Military tanks were everywhere
| | Are you sure this is the PanAmerican highway?
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![](images/2008312140237511-thumb.jpg) | | | | Hotel in Arequipa
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| We now know why we were delayed in leaving Paraguay for 4 days. Entering Peru, even though the border was officially open, was difficult. When we got to the border, there weren't many people there. We said, great, early start, should finish quickly. However, we should have been a bit leary because our book had said to be patient and expect as much as 2 hours to process through the exit of Chile and entry to Peru. The problem was our truck. It seems Peru wasn't allowing individuals to enter with their own vehicle. This "problem" was solved with lots of paper work, and amazingly, less than $5. But, a bit of a hassel. However, we do have all our documents in order. We think the Peruvian customs agents were so impressed with all our documents they didn't search a thing in the truck! PTL!
The Chilean immigrations officer said for us to drive straight to Arequipa, Peru; and to not stop at the border town of Tacna. We know why! There was rocks, glass, and lots of debris in the roads. Apparently 4 days ago when the border ended up being closed, a major riot erupted. This resulted in lots of windows broken, cars overturned, things burned in the roads, etc. There are still guards everywhere. They are all dressed with riot gear. Tanks, like the 1 in the photo, were everywhere. We drove quietly out of town.
Our first night in Peru was here in Arequipa at a beautiful hostel. Besides receiving overnight guests, this location is also a language school. There are folks from all over the world. The people are great. We've enjoyed our brief stay.
They have arranged a trip to Machu Picchu for us for the next 4 days. So, we're leaving faithful blue Hilux & the computer behind for 4 days of no driving!
We'll be back on line with lots to tell about Machu Picchu.
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