500k in 3 days and then resting in Livingstone, Victoria Falls. The riding was long and hot. 2 out of 3 days we've ridden at nightfall if only for a little. We have camped twice and it has been fine although the dew in the morning means wet tents have to be packed away. The long ride to Livingstone was challenging. Firstly it's an uncommon distance for me (195k) and secondly I am still uncomfortable on the bike seat. It's amazing how the brain can shut out excruciating pain when there is a strong agenda. I continue to drink 5l of water while riding which is extra ordinary for me. I also pour water down my back often in an attempt to prevent my body from over heating. Each rider has their own strategies they deploy to minimize the physical and mental challenges the ride throws up. We all have our different riding styles and approaches. Despite this when we do come together and get organized it's a strong mini peloton that can average about 30k - 35k per hour when bunch riding. I learnt there are 13 million people in Zambia and 72 tribes. The new President has promised a greater share of wealth and it's a legal requirement to hang a portrait of him in every business. The picture exudes authority and his unfriendly mug shot is by design (so I am told) to reiterate his omnipotence. When I asked a local proprietor why are there no photos of him smiling she laughed out loud! The villages we pass when riding are a great break from the monotony of an asphalt road heading into the horizon. Village people are always up and about and many wander the roadside. We eat whatever is served in the Villages. I think we are as entertaining to the locals as they are to us. The Lycra means we are very conspicuous! I have enjoyed Zambia and the visual roadside feast the country has served up to us. We had a rest day today which worked well for me giving my body a break from the rigorous peddling. We went to Vic Falls. This iconic landmark far exceeded my expectations. It was huge, lots of water and the viewing tracks had you right amongst it. We were like children soaked to the bone without a care in the world. We crossed a bridge where others daren't follow and seemingly had all its grandeur to ourselves. It was hard to leave but we did. We went to the bridge between Zambia and Zimbabwe where Justin plunged off with elastic tied to his feet. I still wonder whether I should have done the same. I reluctantly walked away but I did travel to ride and a lot of effort by family and friends made my trip possible so it didn't seem right to risk an injury or a mishap. Next time though for sure!! The walk back was entertaining as the monkeys played around on the top of trucks going through a checkpoint. My appetite is starting to kick in now and the magnitude of what the guys eat is not as overwhelming as it was. Instead of buying fuel for a car they are buying fuel for their bodies. I am catching up slowly. We will cross into Botswana tomorrow. I will miss Zambia, it's color, it's people and it's wonder. We saw elephants close to our campsite on dusk which was a thrill. We also have avoided being mugged here in Livingstone which is a common daily occurrence not far from our camp site. We were warned in no uncertain terms not to walk anywhere. Shame really. We ride on tomorrow after packing wet tents in the early morning.