Finding myself in the sand...Atacama Desert Sandboarding

Well, let me first say, I will always be a skier.  But when standing at in the world's driest hot desert in the world, I guess a snowboard will have to do. If you ever find yourself in Chile this is a must do on your list.  There are about 15 different places where sandboarding is possible in Chile.  I chose Valle de la Muerte just outside San Pedro de Atacama.

Sebastian's shop is right in the square across from the church, and I literally walked in and signed up for the next day right there.  Price was reasonable and included my sandboarding and gear, lesson and two short hikes in Valle de la Luna, one at sunset. When we met in the square, I was the only Canadian with a bunch of fun loving Aussie, UK and American backpackers. 









                      
I have never felt sand so soft away from a beach or sun so scorching hot. It was early November, so springtime. The average temperature was about 18C or 64F that day, but the UV index was 13. Yes, 13. So, whatever you think is lots of water, double it. And I had my hydro flasks, which meant I wasn't drinking warm water by the end of the session.

With SPF 50, my skin was frying. The poor pasty white English girls in their shorts were lobster red within the first hour. Long sleeves and pants were a good call. In looking at Sebastian's weathered skin the day before, I knew my fair complexion, was no match for the elements. It should be noted that my forehead still peeled two days later...like I had been in a frying pan.

I'm not going to lie. I was a little nervous. The hike up the hill was physical and the air is extremely thin.  But this old lady was bound and determined to show the 20 something backpackers, with a little healthy living you can do anything no matter the age.  I laughed to myself when several of them gave up after one or two runs instead of facing the climb again. 










With the subwoofer pumping Michael Jackson, Tupac, Biggie and every other 80s and 90s song growing up into the Valle, I was ready. Yes, Sebastian was the too cool, late 30s snowboarder with dreads, the beats, and the life stories. It was much, much slower than snow, especially since the hot sand melted the wax on contact. So, my confidence soared even though my speed did not. 

What a feeling to stand on a dune top in this vast desert. To take in the moment of adrenaline mixed with peace was one I will never forget. I thought, "Wow. I am actually doing this."  Next time I find myself on a sand dune somewhere in the world, I'm skiing that monster! You are only as old as you feel. And being present is being alive.  So, Travel - Eat, Play, Do.

Valle de la Muerte