Lucky Old Sun

Peru 2013

Pedro Ruiz to Nuevo Cajamarca 96 miles 6,600 feet of climbing

After an early breakfast our “Good Morning Climb” started immediately and continued for 18 miles and two hours until we reached the summit at 7,700 feet. That is the same altitude we reached on our earlier ride over a pass of the Andes. So another high point for the trip. As we rode, the scenery became greener and there was more agricultural activity. We enjoyed a nice fifteen mile rapid descent only to begin climbing again to the second peak of the day. This time we reached 7,500 feet right after our lunch stop.

The following descent was rapid. We dropped 2,500 feet in eleven miles. Lots of speeds in the twenties and thirties showed on the speedometer. During the descent the scenery changed markedly. The trees were taller and more crowded, there were ferns and vines we hadn’t seen on the other side of the mountain. Then it struck me that this is the lea side of the mountain where the clouds drop all their moisture. The increase in the humidity was remarkable. Everything was green as far as the eye could see.

The riding temperatures were great today, occasionally a little on the cool side. I was worried about heat after yesterday, but because we were at altitude, it was not an issue. Rain threatened but was never an issue enough to call for raingear although some riders ahead needed theirs at times.

After we had spent all the climbing altitude on the descent and ridden through some rolling terrain, we found ourselves riding along a flat plain. Agriculture was prominent and the small towns were closer together. There was suddenly a lot more traffic on the rod. Lots of Moto-taxis scurrying about. This was a day you didn’t want to end because of the adventures, but the climbing and the mileage took their toll. I was happy to give up the bicycle seat when we reached town.

There are a lot of little children in Peru, most of them with adorable smiles. When passing by on my bike I wave and say “Hola”. Often this brings peels of laughter, vigorous waves and broad smiles, often followed by some long, exclamatory statement in a rapid, high-pitched voice. They are so endearing I wish I could bring them all home.