It has been a busy last few days.  The rainy weather finally cleared and we have had wonderful weather since.  

 

On Wednesday, we traveled up into the valley to see the mountains covered in fresh snow.  There was more snow than we’ve ever seen. Despite the snow, we had a wonderful sunny lunch (70s!) outside at Miraflores restaurant in Pisco Elqui.  

Then on Thursday, we headed up along the coast to eat lunch at Entre Rocas in Caleta Hornos, a small fishing village north of La Serena.  Not only has the rain brought a huge amount of snow to the mountains, but it has also completely greened up the surrounding desert, which is now full of flowers.  I’m not sure if this qualifies as the ‘blooming desert’ but it does for me.  

 

 

Today, we walked (!!) to downtown La Serena to a festival that is part of the city’s 464th birthday celebration.  There were things for sale, food to eat, and dancing performances.  Afterward, we ate lunch at Donde El Guaton, a downtown favorite of ours.  

 

 

 

This evening, we watched a wonderful sunset, along with some nearby birds of prey.  And thanks to my new camera, and my Dad’s 300mm lens, I was able to photograph the green flash for the first time!!!

 

 

Click Here to see all the pictures.