July 11, 2017
We left Nici and Philip behind and rode with our new Canadian cyclist Charles (aka Chuck the Canuck).
Cycling Stats
Start Point: Cajatambo, Ancash, Peru
Destination: Wild camp 4k from top of first pass, Ancash, Peru
21.7 km, 7.2 km/h average speed, 28 km/h maximum speed, 2:57 time on the bike
1050 meters gained, 18 meters elevation descend, 4376 meters maximum elevation
Route Description:
You leave the town and immediately begin climbing very long switchbacks. It is a gravel road in good condition with manageable grades and very little traffic. There is water at the 157K road marker and beyond at frequent intervals. There are also many opportunities for camping spots. There are no stores or houses. We camped 4km from the top of the first pass.
Accommodations:
There are no hotels or houses on the road. This is a very remote area of Peru.
What happened…
Andrew writes: It was a real joy setting off with Charles today from Cajatambo. We tackled the first several switchbacks together with gusto. Then he stopped for a snack and I pressed on ahead, with my little motor giving me a helpful kick here and there. Then I look behind me a short while later and there’s Chuck the Canuck, easy as could be. Kids these days. Man, what I wouldn’t give to be doing this 12 years ago instead of now….and I’m not even that old!
The ride kept going up and up all day, but the valley to our right was pretty cool to look at. Eventually the three of us decided to call it a day, and we found an old quarry of some sort to put our bikes and tents. I am always so curious to see what the camp routines are of other people, and Chuck delivered. From his daily ritual of taping his tent poles back together, to watching him burn his fried bananas, it was a real treat. We shared some pisco and enjoyed a beautiful sunset and that was that.
Amanda writes: It was nice to ride with a new person today. I miss riding with Nici and Philip and its always nice to mix it up. Young Charles was not only able to keep up with our pace with our batteries, he surpassed us when we would stop to catch our breathe. It was great for Andrew to have someone to chat with. I don’t normally chat with others while cycling because I can’t hear anyone as I’m trying to breathe so the boys went off on their own pace. Charles is a fellow Canadian with a contagious laugh and was such great company.
At the end of our ride we set up camp beside each other and it’s always fun to see other peoples routines. Charles equipment has definitely seen better days but he is still full of so much energy and enthusiasm. His tent poles are held together with duct tape, his drying cloth for dishes is an old pair of socks, the dishes look like they’re about 20 years old; and it all works. His shoes could likely be replaced but none of it fazes him in the least. He’s as happy as could be an a pleasure to hang out with.
The aerial view of our ride: