Amahoro (like Anna but with m and then horr and long O) is a popular way to greet or say hello here in Burundi. It means peace and I must have said it 50 times per hour today on day 1. The ride was 120km and largely flat (800m elevation increase). All along the route though were Burundians, going about their normal day to day. As soon as any of us came into view though, yelling, cheering, weird stares...you name it! We were spurred on throughout the route. Kids would come running to the side of the road and want high fives or just to say Amahoro. It was a blast and really a great distraction from a long hot ride. We had water and energy bar stops each 20-25km and I downed 6 or 7 liters of water today just trying to keep up with the sweat. All in all, a great day with no blow-outs, wipeouts or problems aside from Simon's Dad having to skip riding due to a flu but of sorts. Here are some photos I snapped from the bike:
Security detail traveling with us
Selfie!!
Roads were great 60% of time, but crater-like potholes and crazy mad taxi buses kept us on our toes.
Gorgeous view from surprise super hotel tonight with pool AND wifi. Cold showers and mosquito nets provide all we need.
Preparations
Prayer at KCC with well wishers and family before departing.
Lake Tanzanika is the longest freshwater lake in world at 500 miles. Beautiful scenery for most of ride with mountains inland to our left and the DOC across the water to the West.
Kids all along the way.
We have been told the remainder of the nights will be spent, let's say in less aestetically pleasing locations! Certainly this was a great surprise after a long hot ride!
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