Sunday, 1st April 2007

To: Livingstonia

Well, first day off on my own! O.k., I should say "officially" on my own, since I seemed to stray from the set route a few other times. Before leaving Chitimba Beach, though, at 6:15 a.m., Rachel and I did this farewell shot together. Nice memories.

Made it all of 24 km, to Livingstonia, and it took nearly 7 HOURS! I pushed the bike over rocks and stones, up, up, up, the whole way! The road only flattened out enough to actually ride about 2 or 3 times, for short distances. The rest of the way, I walked and pushed! I rested 2 or 3 times, but not official "coke stops". There were none of those. About half-way up, though, started running into beautiful waterfalls that I drank from. A bit nervous about it, but a local told me that "everybody drinks that water," and so I went ahead. Sure tasted great, better than any coke, that's for sure! Felt a bit like hiking, but with a bike. Finally, finally, made it to the top. I think it was the most beautiful view I'd seen on the whole trip, made the climb worth it. Could see Lake Malawi, way below.

Felt great. Slept in Livingstonia because locals told me I wouldn't have time to make it to the next town with accommodation before dark.

----------------- TODAY ------------------- TOTAL

Cycled ---------- 24 km (15 mi) ------------- 4,212 km (2,640 mi)

Lift -------------- 0 -------------------------- 2,387 km (1,599 mi)

Total ------------ 24 km (15 mi) ------------- 6,599 km (4,239 mi)

In Saddle (pushing)-- 5 hrs 45 min -----------272 hours 7 min

Ascended --------- 3,900 feet ---------------- 71,995 feet