16 June, Sunday: Makuzi Beach -> Ngala Beach

Again, we had another lazy start to our Sunday and after a nice morning swim in the lake and a good breakfast, we were on our bikes heading for Ngala Beach. The wind pumped the whole night, actually blowing our tent fly sheet off, having to get up in the night chasing after it. This made us reluctant to get on the bikes, but knowing we cycling for rhino poaching awareness, we got on the saddle and pushed through the howeling wind. The first part of the morning was up some baby hills in comparison to what we have conquered and it a beautiful ride, through large overgrown trees. Malawi has been very mountainous and the landscape is often thick and bushy with no flat areas where you can see for miles. Ocassionally we saw views of the lake which honestly is so massive and the amount of waves and long beaches, gives you a feeling of the sea.

We passed a congregation sitting under the tree, the choir singing gospels songs in their white gowns. This put a big smile on my face, reminding me of the Tree Church in Hoedspruit. After 30 km, we stopped for a short break and snack and there Mom was in her cycling gear, ready to tackle on the hills! We were all so impressed and gave her a big cheer! She managed to cycle for 8 km today, giving her a feeling of strength.

The amazing support team, Madam now being driven by Deby, found a lovely spot under the trees for a lovely lunch break. Now the sun out and the wind had died down a bit, making the last stretch for the day easier to get through. Everytime we cycle through the villages, its been interesting to see how there is just so much litter everywhere, whereas Tanzania was so clean. Here, there are just disgusting patches of plastic gathered in the bushes.

What an amazing support team

As we neared the town of Ngala, right on the Lake, we could smell the strong smell of fish. Along the sides of the roads there are these tables that the locals have made from reeds, covered in tiny silver usopia, waiting to be sold.

Usopia fish on the side of the road

We arrived at yet, another piece of paradise at Ngala Camp where we set up our tents on beautiful green lawn, with a stunning view of the lake. We had a dip in the icy cold infinity pool and a nice cold Malawi gin and beer.

Cycled: 69 km

Time: 3:49 hrs

Ave speed: 18.3 km/hr

Ascent: 303 m